How To Be More Eco Friendly in 2022

One of the many things I learned on my journey to become more eco-friendly is that there is actually this lovely term, “eco-anxiety”. Eco-anxiety is basically the overwhelming sense of existential dread one feels about issues like climate change and global warming. And not to sound defeatist but, when you know that there is a huge disparity in impact between you as an individual consumer and that of large corporations, it makes sense that some of us are overcome with anxiety about the planet’s future.

I know it seems pointless to even try as the daily news bombards us with stories about coral death and sweatshops, but it’s more damaging to do nothing than to do one thing that ultimately compounds into a more sustainable lifestyle. Being eco-friendly isn’t a competition or standard—there’s no need to approach it from a perfectionist standpoint.

It’s just about doing what you can to lessen your carbon footprint—both as an individual and as a consumer. So here are a few tips on how to be more eco-friendly in 2022.

Start small

No one wakes up one day and says, “I’m going to be zero-waste starting today,” and actually does it. Part of the journey to living a more sustainable life is making mistakes and figuring out what works for you. Small gestures turn into habit over time, and by taking off the pressure of going from 0 to 100 overnight, you’re allowing yourself to grow at a pace that you can actually maintain… and even enjoy!

Avoid single-use waste when possible

This may seem daunting—especially during a boom for food delivery services and health and safety concerns—but as the world goes back to some semblance of pre-COVID times, try to reuse containers when possible. (And no, I don’t mean use that one Indian take-out box for three weeks straight.) Consider buying from places that allow you to use your own bags or jars like bulk dry goods stores or farmers markets, and bring your own produce bags for loose items like onions when you can!

Buy secondhand when possible

Although I’m sure most people jump to fashion when I say secondhand, you can also buy goods like pots and pans, or even furniture. By buying secondhand you not only lessen your carbon footprint as a consumer, you’re also keeping something from just being thrown into a landfill. However, not all things should be bought second hand—mattresses and shoes for example collect sweat, dead skin cells, etc., not exactly sanitary.

Become a conscientious consumer

All this takes is a little mindfulness. This means buying from sustainable businesses with transparent manufacturing processes. Buying groceries from local sellers. Educating yourself about ingredients and fillers that may be particularly damaging to the environment (hi, palm oil). I know how tempting it is to buy into the fast consumer market and the shockingly low prices, but just because you’re not footing the bill when you check out, doesn’t mean your actions aren’t starting a chain reaction that can reach across the globe.

Advocate for change

Never underestimate your power as a consumer. In this age of peak social media consumption, regular people are instigating change every day. We’ve seen monopolies fall, and huge companies issue apologies because regular people demand change. Children are pressuring whole governments to go green.

Pay attention to your local ballots. Vote for green measures, and educate those around you who may not know better. Support figures who are passionate about the environment, and petition your local governing office if you have to.

None of us are perfect. None of us can be perfect. Becoming eco-friendly isn’t about transcending your current ways into this absolute zero-lifestyle; I’m pretty sure none of us were zero-waste in our formative years. Living sustainably is about mindfulness and intention. We can’t be “on” 24/7, but being “on” more and more every day is a great place to start.

How will you be more eco friendly in the new year? Share your ideas below!