Often small acts that are supposed to 'have a bigger impact' feel useless. But, I think the current corona-situation we are in, can remind us that things that feel far away are actually closer than you might think. Like when crazy greenies tell you, that the ice caps are melting, you might be socked for a moment, but after that passes you'll go on with your life, inevitably not changing a single thing.
These are just a few ways to make an impact. Realizing your impact on the planet and how to do so more positively, is a journey like any other. I hope that making these small changes in your life will start your journey and that
The truth is, that if the ice caps aren't melting in your backyard and affect you in a way you can actually see, it doesn't matter. But whether we are affected by tangible effects right in front of us, or affected on a planetary scale it DOES matter. I can even use the Corona pandemic as an example. Since December, corona was a faraway thing that everyone thought would just pass, but look at where we are now. So the point of the matter, is that if you are on this earth, the way you behave does make a difference, even if it is in the smallest way.
So, without being that greenie that just babbles on about what is going wrong, here are a few small ways for you to make a difference.
Reusable Water Bottle
Shame on you for buying bottled water at the garage. Sies man. And shame for you, because after that bottle has been living in your car for a week it's almost the equivalent of poisoning yourself. So instead of buying plastic bottles that will end up killing you or a sea turtle, just be cool and buy a reusable one. It's a better look anyway. Thankfully Woolies has you covered, click here to shop.
Reusable Shopping Bags
This is such a simple way to decrease your use of plastic. Shops can literally not make this any easier. No matter your budget or where you shop, every single supermarket in South Africa sells reusable bags at the counter. So just buy one and keep it in your handbag or on the passenger seat of your car. Woolies has come to the rescue yet again with their easy fold reusable bags. Click here to shop.
Eco-friendly Toothbrush
Have you ever walked on a beautiful beach and as you were digging your toes into the warm sand, your small toe touched something. And after kicking up a heap of sand because you got a fright, a filthy toothbrush was revealed. This level of disgust is only known to the few who have experienced it personally. And if you have, you will immediately have vowed to never ever again use a plastic toothbrush. When I say eco-friendly, I don't mean the bamboo ones, because let's be honest, the bamboo texture is horrible. But I actually mean biodegradable ones, with these you won't ever know the difference from your old plastic toothbrush. This you can also buy in the toothbrush aisle at a Dischem or clicks. Click here to shop.
Biodegradable Pads
Yes, they exist. And the good news is that you don't even have to look far. Dischem sells a brand called Anna Organic. They are a proudly South African company and the pads and panty liners are top quality. Click here to visit their website.
Thrift Shops
So consumerism sucks, but what sucks, even more, is the amount of water used to make a pair of jeans. 10, 000 L! This is insane and just plain unacceptable. And, not only that but just think of all the fossil fuels used to transport those jeans from China and wherever else all of our stuff is made. It's okay to feel guilty at this point because I'm here to remind you, that there is another way. Thrifting. Not only will you broaden your current style buy not buying from the same shops like everyone else, but you will support the South African economy at the same time. Thrift shopping, or otherwise known as secondhand shopping, will give you the opportunity to explore new places in your city and meet interesting people. And plus, you'll look hot and super vintage while doing so.
These are just a few ways to make an impact. Realizing your impact on the planet and how to do so more positively, is a journey like any other. I hope that making these small changes in your life will start your journey and that it will be an unforgettable adventure.
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