Create a sustainable routine that is better for you, the planet, and your wallet

Have you ever thought about how much your daily choices impact the environment?

Sometimes, it feels overwhelming to change our habits—especially when plastic bags, single-use products, and fast fashion are so convenient. I get it. I’ve been there too, trying to figure out how to make my routine more sustainable without making life complicated.

Have you ever thought about how much your daily choices impact the environment?

Sometimes, it feels overwhelming to change our habits—especially when plastic bags, single-use products, and fast fashion are so convenient. I get it. I’ve been there too, trying to figure out how to make my routine more sustainable without making life complicated.

But after years of trial and error, I’ve found a few simple, realistic habits that have stuck—and I’d love to share them with you.

Of course, the beginning is always an adjustment. And let’s be honest, your first attempt might be a total fail (trust me, I once tried making DIY toothpaste… let’s just say it was a disaster). But every little step forward counts!

Here are a few easy ways you can start making your daily routine more sustainable today:

Switch to Reusable Products

Before you think “But my habits won’t make a big difference,” consider this: the average woman uses 150 kg (330 lbs) of pads and tampons in her lifetime. That’s about the weight of a fridge! Imagine removing that entire fridge worth of waste from the planet—forever.

And you totally can!

Just swap single-use products for more sustainable alternatives.

That “fridge of waste”? You can replace it with a menstrual cup like LaliCup. Swap plastic straws for metal or bamboo ones. Bring your own fabric bags when shopping (I even made my own from old curtains—would you be interested in a DIY tutorial?).

Cut Down on Plastic

Start small: use a reusable water bottle, swap plastic toothbrushes for bamboo ones, and bring your own shopping bag (or sew one from those old curtains again).

Buy Local and Seasonal

Whenever possible, choose products that come with less plastic packaging—it’s such a simple but powerful change.

When shopping for food, check what’s in season and locally grown. It’s usually cheaper, fresher, and better for the planet since it doesn’t need to be shipped halfway around the world.

Many cities even have outdoor markets where you can buy fresh produce and support local farmers.

Bonus: I’ve actually made some great friendships at my local market just by buying from the same vendors regularly. Sometimes, all it takes is a little conversation over a bunch of fresh lettuce!

Save Energy & Water

Small changes can make a big impact. Wash your clothes at lower temperatures, turn off lights when you don’t need them, and unplug devices when not in use. Not only does this shrink your carbon footprint, but it also saves you money!

Buy Smarter (and Less)

When it comes to shopping, try choosing quality over quantity. Instead of cheap, fast-fashion items that barely last a season, invest in pieces that might one day become vintage treasures for your grandkids.

For food, I follow the FIFO rule—First In, First Out. Fresh ingredients get used first, while that can of tuna can wait (probably until the next Olympics).

Also, never go grocery shopping hungry. It’s a guaranteed way to end up with a cart full of unnecessary snacks.

What About Big Companies?

You might be thinking:

“Okay, cool tips, but me using a bamboo toothbrush is nothing compared to what big corporations are doing. They’re the ones who need to change!”

And you’re right—corporations play a huge role. Without system-wide changes, our efforts can only go so far.

But here’s the thing: companies respond to what we buy. If we start choosing more sustainable products, businesses will have no choice but to adapt.

So while individual actions might feel small, collective action changes markets.

A sustainable routine isn’t just good for the planet—it’s a way to simplify your life, save money, and feel amazing about your choices.

We don’t have to change everything overnight. But small, intentional steps add up fast.

So, choose wisely, live better, and let’s make sustainability the new normal!