Looking to understand sustainable shopping? You're in the right place. This blog will guide you through the basics, making it easier to incorporate into your life.

This will help you start a life of sustainable shopping. 

We are not here to judge how much you can or cannot do. This may be enough for you, or this will be your new passion, and you become more and more sustainable; both are great!

Now, let's get sustainable! 

What does sustainable shopping mean? 

First, what does sustainable mean? The ability to be maintained at a certain level typically talking about natural resources in order to maintain an ecological balance. (Oxford Dictionary) and what does shopping mean? To buy or trade goods and services. Now when you put the two together you are now making a conscious effort to buy goods and services that make a social, environmental and economical difference or maintain the health of one or more of them. 

So what is the best way to sustainably shop? 

Let’s talk about it! 

1. Shop Local 

Whether it's an independent grocery store or a curated local shop, these are great ways to start sustainable shopping and support local. 

This helps the economy as you are keeping the money in the community.

2. Bring Your Own Bag 

Don't forget to take your reusable bag with you when you go shopping. This simple step not only helps to reduce waste but also saves you money. Many stores charge customers anywhere from $0.10 to $0.40 for a single bag, so bringing your reusable bag can make a real difference.

3. Support Ethical Brands 

When you choose to purchase from retailers that prioritize ethical manufacturing, you are making a thoughtful decision to support sustainable shopping practices that benefit both people and the environment.

4. Buy Quality Over Quantity  

When you prioritize choosing high-quality products over accumulating a large quantity of items, you can experience the satisfaction of using your possessions for many years. By opting for high-quality items, you avoid the frustration of quickly growing tired of low-quality products while supporting ethical and sustainable practices.

5. Buy Second Hand

There are fantastic choices for finding second-hand items that are unique and new to you! 

• The convenient Facebook marketplace.
• Local consignment stores.
• Budget-friendly thrift stores.
• Bustling flea markets

FAQs

How can I support local retailers?

Why is Supporting Local Artisans Important?

How to find Local Artisans? 

 References

Oxford Languages | The Home of Language Data, https://languages.oup.com/. Accessed 23 July 2024.

Okamoto, Katie. “Want to Shop More Sustainably? These 6 Tips Will Help.” The New York Times, 9 February 2024, https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/how-to-shop-more-sustainably-tips/. Accessed 23 July 2024.

“Sustainable, Eco-Friendly and Ethical Shopping Guide.” Oxfam GB, https://www.oxfam.org.uk/oxfam-in-action/oxfam-blog/guide-to-sustainable-shopping/. Accessed 23 July 2024.

“TOOLKIT: HOW TO SUSTAINABLY SHOP FOR YOUR CLOTHES - Earth Day.” EarthDay.org, https://www.earthday.org/toolkit-how-to-shop-for-your-clothes/. Accessed 23 July 2024.

“What is Sustainable Shopping?” Naked Sustainability, https://nakedsustainability.com/sustainable-shopping/. Accessed 23 July 2024.