Five simple swaps to help make your 2020 more sustainable
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In 2020, the environment is front and centre when it comes to public interest.
Prince William himself recently helped launch The Earthshot Prize, an ambitious set of challenges meant to inspire a decade of action to repair the planet.
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As someone who is constantly trying to reduce my carbon footprint and live more sustainably, this year I’m looking to continue making changes to my daily habits and cut down on the average of 2.7 kg of waste that Canadians produce daily. I’m committed to avoid single-use products, and am on my way in replacing them with reusable options.
Even though it takes a little more planning, there’s no reason we need to continue to purchase things like coffee cups, water bottles or wipes that are thrown away after every use. If you’re looking to cut down on your own waste production this year, scroll through these five easy and affordable swaps to make every day more sustainable.
Coffee cups
Canadians drink an estimated 14 billion cups of coffee every year, according to the non-profit organization Zero Waste Canada. Cut down on that number by replacing your daily to-go cup with a single reusable coffee cup instead.
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Water bottles
In Canada, universities like Queen’s, Ryerson, Ottawa, Winnipeg and Toronto are now water bottle-free. However, it’s estimated that 65 million plastic bottles still find their way into Canadian landfills. Cut back on your plastic usage and invest in a water bottle, and save up to 1,460 plastic bottles per year.
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Straws
According to the Government of Canada, nearly 57 million plastic straws are used daily, which is why they’re at the top of the list of single-use plastics Ottawa is hoping to ban in 2021. Get ahead of the changes now, and look to reusable metal or glass versions instead.
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Cutlery
Also on Canada’s list of plastic items to ban next year are single-use cutlery sets, which can take up to 1,000 years to decompose in landfills. Travel with your own set, and look for one that comes with a convenient travel case to keep them with you wherever you go.
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Wet wipes
Disposable makeup wipes have become a staple in many beauty routines, but in places like the U.K., they’re already considering imposing a ban on them. Instead of tossing one after every use, reach for makeup remover and reusable cloth pads as a replacement. Simply use and wash, and say goodbye to excess waste.
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