Eco informed Shopping
Are you an eco informed shopper?
A quick-start guide to making ethical purchases
By: Marie Elvshammar
No matter what you are shopping for - from groceries to comparing insurances - we are always offered choices. At times it can be overwhelming and difficult to know if you are making the right decision.
You can start by asking good questions and knowing how to choose a product that can help the environment, make a sustainable future for others and give you a better lifestyle.
Here is a quick-start guide to get you on your way to being an informed shopper:
Take care of your skin and hair
Things to Ask:
What ingredients are in the product?
What products are harmful to myself and the environment?
Need to know:
Hair products have lots of chemicals. Do your research! Ask questions, read comments from other buyers and, when necessary, find alternatives.
Buy mineral makeup. It is more natural and gives a healthier look.
Make sure the product you buy is not animal tested.
Make your own face mask, lotion, etc. Look up what ingredients to use and start with what you have in the kitchen!
Shop with a Conscience
Deal or no deal?
Deals can be tempting, but don’t fall for the pressure that you have to buy. If you aren’t going to use it, don’t buy it. No matter how good the sale!
Buy fair trade.
Unfortunately, not everyone is being treated with respect at every company. Some are dealing with poor and unsafe working conditions, are being paid under minimum wage and are not able to support their families.
When you buy Fair Trade you provide a better future for families and help environmental and sustainable practices world wide.
If it is hard to find Fair Trade products in your community, shop online! There are a variety of selections and fair trade is easy to find.
Buy recycled products. They often have a unique and very cool design.
Buy organic products. They are better for you and the environment. Be aware that ‘Natural’ doesn’t mean organic! Truly organic products are free from pesticides, fertilizers and chemicals used for processing.
Don’t buy too many groceries. The amount of food wasted in the world could feed millions!
Don’t follow the “sell by” dates and throw out unopened food. Those are for the store, not your pantry. Many foods are good after that. Be aware of how long a product can be stored properly in your home and remain edible.
Support local shops. By being a regular customer you will make a great connection, support your community and meet new people.
Local Markets
Smaller grocery options are always fun to check out. You will discover endless ways to make almost anything. Get new, fun homemade recipes or other helpful tips.
Buy eco-friendly clothes and jewelry. Choose between a variety of designs and collections.
It can be affordable!
Cheap for you can come at a cost for someone else.
Buying natural and fair trade products could seem a bit more costly at the time, but the choice you are making for a better living is eternal and global!
Look for discounts, deals and coupons.
Try resale shopping when you have a chance. It will cut down on global waste, and you will save precious land from being used as landfills.
There are many websites, books and informative people to help you on your quest to buy well. Start learning and keep learning!
useNature is thanking Marie Elvshammar for the article contribution ...
Article By: Marie Elvshammar
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Disclaimer - Any general advice given in any article should not be relied upon and should not be taken as a substitute for visiting a qualified medical Doctor.
