We understand the impact that small changes can have to make the world the better place. Here’s a list of 5 new things you can try this year to spark creativity and introduce sustainability into your everyday life!
Shop Second-hand
Try some second-hand retail therapy and shop around local consignment and thrift stores for your new duds this year! One of the largest categories of items being thrown into our landfills is textiles, clothing and furniture. Trends change and so does our style, so why not score some amazing finds and enjoy the fun of the hunt!
The Sorry Girls – Holiday Thrift Flip
Thrift Flip
A fun challenge for any crafty individuals. Be inspired by The Sorry Girls – these Toronto-based YouTubers craft fun videos of themselves shopping at their local thrift stores, finding unique items and giving them a new purpose. Watch their video on how to update old lighting pieces to fit your decor throughout the winter months!
Better Homes & Garden – Reusable Snack Bags & Sandwich Wraps
Reusable Sandwich & Snack Bags
We’ve all seen beeswax food wraps, but why not try reusable bags. It’s the perfect way to make use of scrap fabric and avoid bulky plastic containers! Check out this DIY project on Better Homes & Garden.
Metal Straws
We have all heard the stories about the impact plastic straws have on the aquatic wildlife. Many cities and restaurants in North America have even put a ban on traditional plastic straws. Try picking up a pack of reusable metal straws, there are many on the market and you can pick from a variety of shapes and even colours. Are you a bendy straw or a straight shooter? You decide!
Produce Bags
Many grocery stores have added a cost to purchase plastic bags, but many still use clear bags for produce. While we are trained to bring reusable totes, we often forget about the smaller bags to protect our fruits and vegetables. Try using laundry linen bags or shop on local websites such as Etsy for repurposed or biodegradable produce bags!
Learn about how West 5 focuses on sustainability when designing and planning our community.
