Refuse
You know what they say, “refuse, refuse, refuse”—wait, that’s not right? Well, it should be! Refusing single-use items like plastic bags and straws is a great first step in ethical consumerism. Just make sure you bring your reusable bags and drinks bottle with you, or else you’ll end up like me, awkwardly trying to carry everything under your arms.
Reduce
Less is more, especially when it comes to shopping. Ask yourself if you really need that new gadget or piece of clothing before you make a purchase. And if you do need it, like school uniform, can you buy one less school jumper or get them second-hand or from a sustainable source? Trust me, your wallet and the planet will thank you.
Reuse
Reuse, reuse, reuse—that’s the motto! Find creative ways to give old items a new lease on life, like turning a t-shirt into a grocery bag or turning your grandparents’ old records into a funky clock. This might seem like a turkey voting for Christmas, but I love that most schools now have uniform swop shops.
Recycle
Recycling is great, but let’s be real, it’s not the most exciting task on the to-do list. So why not make it a game? Challenge your kids to see who can recycle the most, or try to recycle something unusual, like a toothbrush or a computer mouse. Who knows, you might just discover a hidden talent for crafting!
Repair
Don’t throw it away, fix it up! Repairing items instead of buying new ones not only saves you money, but it also saves the planet from more waste. So grab your sewing kit and get to work. Just don’t forget to take your child out of their uniform before you start—safety first!
Rot
Last but not least, the ultimate form of reuse: rot! Composting is a great way to reduce waste and help the environment. Just remember, coffee grounds and banana peels go in the compost, not in the cup of coffee you’re drinking. No one wants a compost latte. Our mailbags are made from cornstarch and biodegradable polymers and can go straight in the compost. The worms love them!
Ethical consumerism can be a lot of fun if you approach it with a sense of humour. So, refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle, repair, and rot—and most importantly, have a good laugh while doing it.
Image credit: Bruno Kelzer