Confession: I didn't start recycling until this year. Ugh, I know! I was always so overwhelmed with where to start and what to do that I never pulled the plug...until this year. After realizing the impact we, as humans, have on the planet (and seeing the impact of plastic straws on sea turtles, OMG) Kev and I finally made a conscious effort to become more eco-friendly. Needless to say, I am SO happy we did.
I used to think "going green" was complex, when it's actually very simple and can often be the frugal option. Here are some small, easy and "green" choices we've made this year:
1. RECYCLE
Starting with the most obvious...recycling! We registered for this two sided trash can for our wedding to make recycling simpler. It forces us to think "is this recyclable?" every time we throw something away. We were amazed at how much more we recycle than throw away!
2. REUSABLE STRAWS
I don't know about you but I am someone that ALWAYS needs to drink with a straw. I started by switching to aluminum and then I discovered silicone (insert heart eyes). I am obsessed and I love all the colors!
I also bought this key chain straw to keep with me when we go out. A lot of restaurants have stopped providing straws altogether (wahoo!) so it is great to keep in your purse. Save the turtles!
3. REUSABLE CUPS
Speaking of drinking, I am a big coffee person! I often work at coffee shops and I started bringing my own cups for both hot and cold drinks. The staff love it and you can also get a discount for bringing your own. Here are a few I love:
Personalized Grande Hot Cup | Grande Hot Cup (Set of 6) /Personalized Venti Cold Cup | Venti Cold Cup (Set of 3)
4. REUSABLE GROCERY AND PRODUCE BAGS
Similar to reusable cups, a lot of stores will give you a discount for bringing your own bags. I love these grocery bags because they have a reinforced base and fold flat. We also have these produce bags which saves us from using a huge amount of plastic!
5. GLASS TUPPERWARE
I recently switched out roughly 95% of our tupperware/food containers from plastic to glass for a number of reasons. Considering we often have leftovers and I meal prep, I've learned it is unsafe to microwave food in plastic containers due to the amount of toxins that are released. In addition, glass is also a cleaner option as it won't absorb food and germs, and it can be safely washed in high temperatures. Not to mention, using glass always reduces the amount of plastic landfill. Bottom line: switch to glass! Here are a two sets of containers we've invested in:
As we continue to "go green" I'll continue to share the small changes we've made. How have you gone green in your home? Leave a comment below or shoot me a message on IG! I'd love to hear your feedback.
Love, Sarah
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