Spring has well and truely sprung. Hopefully, in between the exceptionally rainy spring, we are having here in the UK so far this year, you have managed to get outside and shake off some of the winter blues. Here at Hoopsy, we’ve been thinking of ways to have a more sustainable spring.
From personal care items to household products, there are plenty of opportunities to make more eco-friendly choices that benefit both you and the planet. Here are some tips for sustainable living that can make a big difference this spring:
1. Switch to eco-friendly period products
Disposable menstrual products like pads and tampons generate a lot of waste each year. In fact, it’s estimated that the average person who menstruates will use between 5,000 and 15,000 pads or tampons in their lifetime. Switching to reusable menstrual products like menstrual cups, cloth pads, or period pants can significantly reduce waste and save you a lot of money in the long run.
2. Choose natural skincare products
Many conventional skincare products contain harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances that can be harmful to both you and the environment. Look for natural and organic options made with plant-based ingredients that are gentle on your skin and the planet. You can also reduce waste by choosing products with minimal packaging or opting for refillable containers.
3. Invest in sustainable fashion
Fast fashion is a major contributor to environmental degradation and many of the clothes we buy end up in landfills after just a few wears. Consider investing in sustainable fashion made with eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, bamboo, or recycled fibres. You can also shop secondhand, I’m loving Vinted at the moment! or swap clothes with friends to reduce waste and save money.
4. Use eco-friendly cleaning products
Many household cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that can pollute the air and waterways. Switch to eco-friendly cleaning products made with natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. You can also make your own cleaning solutions at home using simple ingredients like lemon juice and hydrogen peroxide.
5. Reduce single-use plastic
Plastic waste is a huge problem for the environment, and single-use plastic products like straws, water bottles, pregnancy tests and food containers are some of the biggest culprits. Look for reusable alternatives like stainless steel water bottles, glass food containers, and silicone straws. You can also carry a reusable shopping bag with you to avoid using plastic bags at the supermarket!
6. Shop local and support small businesses
Shopping locally is a great way to support small businesses and reduce your carbon footprint. Look for local stores and artisans who make eco-friendly products, and consider buying from them instead of big-box retailers. You can also shop at farmers’ markets to buy fresh, locally-grown produce
7. Compost your food waste
Food waste is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, but composting can help reduce this problem. Start a compost bin in your garden, or look for local composting services in your area. You can compost things like fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and eggshells to create nutrient-rich soil for your garden, which your plants will love!
8. Learn more about sustainability
Finally, one of the best ways to be more sustainable this spring is to keep learning about ways to reduce your environmental impact. Follow sustainability bloggers, local environmental groups and influencers for inspiration.
Create your own sustainable spring
One of the reasons Hoopsys founder Lara started the business was to reduce the number of plastic pregnancy tests in landfill, which can take up to 30 years to break down. Choosing eco-friendly pregnancy tests like Hoopsy’s and swapping to more environmentally friendly products in all areas of our lives is an easy change we can all make for the better of our planet and to create our own sustainable spring.
