Sustainability is the ability to exist constantly

On the surface, it can be incredibly daunting to reduce your environmental footprint. But when you break it down into small steps, you realise it’s not that hard and you have more power than you thought.

Tip no 1: Swap plastic produce bags for reusable ones

I use these ones from Sustomi (pictured). I must admit, it took me a while to make the swap, I thought it would be quite annoying or impractical and expensive. But after I used them once I was annoyed at myself for not doing it earlier!

Tip no 2: Swap glad wrap/plastic wrap for beeswax wraps and silicone food covers

Another easy swap. Buy once, use time and time again!

Tip no 3: Wash & re-use baking paper

Instead of ripping off a new sheet of baking paper each time, rinse it off and use it again.

Baking paper is non-stick so when washed gently you can easily use it multiple times. This also means you don’t have to buy anything extra to be more sustainable. Just do what you’re doing, but slightly tweak it.

*you can also buy reusable baking sheets though if you have the funds

Tip no 4: Swap take away containers for reusable ones

I feel like most people do this now, which is great! But just in case you don’t – investing in some good quality Tupperware / reusable food containers can actually save you money in the long run and also help save the plant. No more single-use take away containers!

Tip no 5: Grow your own herbs, fruit and vegetables even if it’s just a few pots around the house, it all helps!

“Buying food that is locally grown from your farmer’s market or local grocer is a great way to minimize your environmental impact, but growing your own food takes it to the next level.

The easiest way to imagine how growing your own food reduces your carbon footprint and benefits the planet is to think of food production and distribution in terms of an empty jar. The fuller the jar is, the greater the environmental impact, and the more components involved in producing your food and bringing your food to your plate.” Source

Tip no 6: Avoid buying pre-plastic-wrapped products (pre-cut salads).

Whilst they are conveniently already chopped for us, they are more expensive for the environment and you’re wallet

Tip no 7: Shop at bulk food stores for any dry goods. You can take in your own jars to fill up or use paper bags!

Tip no 8: Limit the use of hot water when hand washing dishes.

Use a dishwasher instead of handwashing can save more water and electricity.

Tip no 9: Reduce your food waste by only buying and eating what you really need.

If you end up throwing food out at the end of the week, stop and think about what you could a) do with those scraps (compost) and b) how you can shop smarter this week

Tip no 10: Use cloths instead of paper towels.

These are just a few kitchen sustainability tips, there are hundreds of other small changes you can make. A great resource for other tips like these ones is by The Minimalist Vegan