5 Simple Tips to Live a More Sustainable Lifestyle

(NC) These simple, but effective tips can easily be incorporated into your everyday life and will leave you feeling good about your choices.

Lower your energy usage
By using less energy, you can help to reduce carbon emissions. There are a number of ways you can save energy at home, including switching off standby appliances, moderating your use of your AC, and hanging clothes to dry instead of using a dryer.

Reduce, reuse and compost
Be conscious of the products you are shopping for and look for eco-friendly options such as reusable containers and jars or gifting preloved clothes to friends and local charities. Composting food versus throwing food in the garbage when possible is also a great plan.

Grow your own produce
Building a small box garden or herb garden can be simple, easy and great for the environment. Even if you don’t have space or time to care for something extensive, you might be surprised what you can grow in containers on your balcony or porch, from tomatoes to hot peppers.

Support sustainable businesses
With a little research, you can easily find businesses that are making sustainable choices, such as Henry of Pelham Winery, which models sustainability from soil to shelf.

Save water in your home
Be conscious of using excessive water when brushing your teeth or showering. Catch rainwater in your backyard to repurpose for your garden, and try installing a water butt to make use of greywater to avoid wasting drinking water.