Earth Day is observed annually by billions of people all around the world. This day raises awareness around the importance of environmental appreciation. Earth Day is about taking action and doing your part to protect the planet. No, I am not a sustainability blogger. However, there are conscious actions I take in my everyday life to help the environment from recycling to using my favorite refillable water bottle.
It turns out that one of my favorite hobbies is good for the environment. Yes, thrifting is good for the planet not just my wallet! In the beginning, I have shopped at thrift stores mainly for the purpose of saving my coin. A few years ago, I realized that shopping secondhand is beneficial for the planet. Today, I’ll be sharing a few reason why thrifting is good for the plant. Additionally, providing a few ways that you too can show some environmental appreciation.
How is Thrifting Good for the Planet?
Keeps Clothes Out of Landfills. People are using and tossing clothing faster than ever these days for various reasons. Throwing clothes in the trash increases the amount of textile waste at landfills. What is the problem with clothes going to the landfill? Textile waste releases dyes, and toxins into surrounding soil and water.
Helps Preserve Water. Did you know the production of clothing requires a large amount of water? While the earth is mostly made up of water, research suggests that water resources are limited. Clothing production takes up a lot of water which affects the water supply for drinking.
Ways to Show Environmental Appreciation
Shop Secondhand. Incorporate secondhand items into your wardrobe. My wardrobe contains a good balance of thrifted items and retail items. Do not forget that you can thrift online as well, check out Thred Up!
Recycle. Use that recycle bin in your driveway! Prior to becoming a home owner, I did not recycle. It was the recycling bin at the end of my driveway that encouraged me to start recycling. It is so easy now, I simply fill up the recycle bin and my husband rolls it out to the curb for pick up.
Have a garage Sale. Clean out your closet, and host a garage sale. I do more shopping at garage sales than hosting but this is a great way to reduce textile waste and make a few extra bucks. Spring and summer is the best time for having a garage sale so start purging those items now…
Use Reusable Shopping Bags. I opt for reusable shopping bags when running to the store to pick up a few items. I keep 2-3bags in my car for those days during the week when I have to stop at the grocery store after work.
Opt for Refillable Water Bottles. Refillable water bottles have become much more popular these days. Splurge on a great water bottle that will last.
Shop Sustainable Fashion Brands. Yes, it is possible for you to care about the environment and enjoy shopping as well. Here is a list of sustainable clothing brands I love:
- Gap – over 60% of materials are responsibly sources
- Adidas – sustainable activewear
- Free People – Online sustainable shop
- Levi’s – Cutting carbon emissions / Secondhand Shop
- Proof Eyewear – sustainable/eco friendly sunglasses
Buying secondhand is one of the most sustainable choices I have ever made. Honestly, when I fell in love with thrifting it was simply to save a coin. Now I know that I am doing my part by purchasing items that already exist. My hope is that this post inspires you to do your part to help the environment. If you’re already doing you part to help the environment, GREAT! Regardless of whether you thrift or not, there are many ways that you can show environmental appreciation.
Click here to read about my favorite thrift find!
Happy Earth Day! What are some ways that you show environmental appreciation? Comment below!
