Sustainable shopping on a budget is no longer an oxymoron! We’re in an age where society is becoming increasingly aware of its impact on the environment, yet our financial obligations often limit our ability to be green. Fortunately, there are several tips to shopping more sustainably without breaking the bank. Read on to discover 27 tips to green your shopping while still adhering to your budget!
1. Follow the 30-Wear Rule
Before buying something, ask yourself: will I realistically wear this at least 30 times? If the answer is no, reconsider buying the item.
2. Out with the old, in with the used
Make thrift and second-hand stores your go-to when shopping for clothes. You can find great clothes at a fraction of the price, plus you’re giving them new life and preventing them from clogging up landfills.
3. Use a list
Make a list of items you need and stick to it. Shopping with a list prevents you from making impulse buys, helping you avoid buying more than you actually need.
4. Buy in bulk
Prioritize purchasing items in bulk whenever possible. Not only will you save money, but you can also reduce packaging waste.
5. Choose ethical brands
Do some research to make sure the brands you buy from are ethical and sustainable. Many companies are taking initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint, including using organic fabrics, banning hazardous chemicals, and promoting responsible production and fair wages.
6. Invest in reusable items
Reusable items like bags, mugs and containers are a great way to cut down on plastic and other single-use items. Invest in a few and start taking them everywhere with you.
7. Buy local
Support local and small businesses whenever you can to minimize the environmental impact from transporting or shipping.
8. DIY whenever possible
Do some research and try to make things yourself. Making things from scratch often saves money and prevents you from buying ready-made products with excessive packaging.
9. Be mindful of water waste
Always do full loads of dishes and laundry and think about installing low-flow fixtures or other water saving devices in your home for even more savings.
10. Support fair trade
Seek out items that are made with respect for the environment and give back to the community.
11. Don’t be tempted by sales
Just because something is on sale doesn’t mean you need it. Shop mindfully and stick to items you need and will use.
12. Shop online
Not only will you save money from not having to pay for gas or transportation, but you can also easily compare prices between multiple sites to find the best deal.
13. Bring a friend
Going shopping with a friend who has the same shopping goals as you can help you stay focused and avoid the temptation of buying something unnecessary.
14. Ask questions
Whenever possible, ask questions about the product before buying it to minimize the risk of buying something unsustainable.
15. Shop with a conscience
Before buying something, consider whether it was made using sustainable practices.
16. Repair and repurpose
Look for ways to repair existing items before buying something new, or find unexpected ways to repurpose old items.
17. Buy in season
Produce is typically cheaper when it’s in season, so plan your meals around seasonal produce instead of buying out of season foods.
18. Utilize the library
More and more libraries are stocking a variety of items, including books, movies, magazines, and even toys and games.
19. Shop around
Shop around for the best prices on sustainable items. Sites like Ecohabit and Shop Ethica make it easy to find sustainable clothing, home goods, and accessories at affordable prices.
20. Grow your own food
Plant a garden in your backyard or consider container gardening for a low-cost, fresh source of food year-round.
21. Buy used electronics
Instead of buying a brand new phone, laptop or TV, look for used electronics that are still in good condition.
22. Choose reusable materials
When shopping for products like paper towels and napkins, look for reusable cloth options. These can be easily washed and reused again and again before being recycled.
23. Take cloth bags to the grocery store
Instead of using plastic bags, opt for durable, reusable bags made from cloth or other sustainable materials.
24. Choose quality over quantity
Look for quality items that will last you a long time, saving you money over time because you won’t have to replace them as often.
25. Buy eco-friendly cleaning products
Commercial cleaning products often contain hazardous ingredients and lots of packaging. Look for safe, non-toxic and concentrated products that minimize waste.
26. Prioritize natural fibers
Natural fibers like organic cotton, wool, hemp and bamboo are much more sustainable than synthetic materials like polyester and nylon.
27. Donate and recycle
Donate old items you no longer need and recycle whatever you can. Many local organizations will take textiles, electronics and even batteries for safe disposal.
Final Thoughts
Following these 27 tips, you can do your part to help the environment without having to break the bank. The key is to shop mindfully and make sure you’re only buying things you need and will actually use. With a bit of effort, you can be sure that your spending habits are consciously leading to a greener future.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. How can I shop sustainably on a budget?
Answer: Follow these 27 tips to help you shop sustainably on a budget: use a list, buy in bulk, choose ethical brands, invest in reusable items, buy local, DIY whenever possible, use the 30-wear rule, buy used electronics, shop around for the best prices, buy in season, and support fair trade.
2. What stores should I shop at to be more sustainable?
Answer: Look for thrift and second-hand stores, local and small businesses, and online stores with ethical practices.
3. Are sustainable and ethical brands more expensive?
Answer: Not necessarily – shop around and compare prices between different stores to find the best deal.
4. How can I reduce plastic waste while shopping?
Answer: Choose reusable items like bags, mugs, and containers, invest in a reusable water bottle, and opt for items with minimal or recycled packaging.
5. What should I do with old items?
Answer: If you can, try and repair them or repurpose them. If not, donate and recycle them whenever possible.
6. How often should I buy new items?
Answer: Only buy new items when needed. Make sure the item is something you will use for at least 30 wears before making the purchase.
7. Are cloth bags better than plastic ones?
Answer: Absolutely – cloth bags are durable, reusable, and minimize plastic waste.
8. What products should I avoid buying?
Answer: Avoid buying products with hazardous chemicals, and opt for items made with natural fibers whenever possible.
9. What is the 30-Wear Rule?
Answer: The 30-Wear Rule is a concept that encourages people to ask themselves whether they will realistically wear an item at least 30 times before buying it.
10. Are there any online stores that sell sustainable items?
Answer: Yes, sites like Ecohabit and Shop Ethica make it easy to find sustainable clothing, home goods, and accessories at affordable prices.
