By Harper Quintonson, Fashion Weekly's Lifestyle Editor
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore—it’s become a lifestyle choice for those of us who want to tread a little lighter on this beautiful planet. Whether you're just dipping your toes into eco-conscious living or looking to level up your green game, I’ve rounded up everyday tips to help you live more sustainably, stylishly, and simply.
Getting Started: Simple Sustainable Living Tips for Beginners
How Can I Start to Live More Sustainably?
The key is to start small. Swap out single-use items, cut down on waste, and be more mindful about what you buy. You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight—baby steps make a big difference.
What Are Simple Changes to Reduce My Carbon Footprint?
- Walk, cycle or take public transport when possible
- Unplug devices when not in use
- Support local—think farmers' markets and small businesses
- Switch to energy-efficient lighting
Every choice matters, and consistency over time is what leads to impact.
Reducing Waste: Food, Composting & Smart Choices
How Can I Effectively Reduce Food Waste in My Home?
Australians waste around 7.6 million tonnes of food each year. Planning meals, storing produce correctly, and loving your leftovers are great ways to cut back.
Composting Tips for Eco-Friendly Waste Management
Even if you live in an apartment, composting is doable! Start small with a benchtop compost bin or a Bokashi system. Keep compost balanced with a mix of “greens” (veggie scraps) and “browns” (paper, cardboard).
How Can Meal Planning Help Reduce Food Waste?
Meal planning stops that mid-week supermarket panic and keeps your fridge in check. Create a rough weekly menu and only buy what you need—bonus points for using up what’s already in the pantry.
What Should I Do With Leftover Food to Minimise Landfill Waste?
Get creative:
- Turn roast veg into frittatas
- Use stale bread for croutons or breadcrumbs
- Freeze leftover portions for future meals
Recycling & Reusing: Best Everyday Habits
What Are the Best Practices for Recycling and Reusing Materials?
- Rinse recyclables—clean containers mean less contamination
- Flatten cardboard boxes to save space
- Know your council’s recycling rules—they vary across Australia
How Can I Properly Recycle Plastic and Paper Products?
Soft plastics are a big one—recycle them via REDcycle-style programs at major supermarkets (check availability). For paper, remove any food residue (think pizza boxes) before tossing it in the bin.
What Are Some Reusable Products That Can Replace Single-Use Items?
- Reusable coffee cups
- Beeswax wraps instead of cling film
- Silicone baking mats
- Stainless steel straws
- Refillable water bottles
They’re stylish and sustainable—win-win.
How Does Recycling Help Fight Climate Change?
Recycling reduces the need for raw materials, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and cuts down on landfill. It’s one of the simplest actions with the biggest long-term payoff.
Dressing Sustainably: Rethinking Your Wardrobe
What Is Fast Fashion and Why Is It a Problem?
Fast fashion refers to cheaply made, mass-produced clothing designed to be worn a few times before being discarded. It’s harmful to garment workers and contributes massively to landfill and emissions.
How Can I Opt for Sustainable Clothing Options?
- Buy less, choose well
- Support ethical Australian labels
- Choose natural fibres like linen, hemp or organic cotton
- Look for certifications like GOTS or Fair Trade
What Are Some Tips for Reusing and Repurposing Clothing?
- Host a clothing swap
- Upcycle old pieces into something new
- Tailor or mend garments instead of tossing them
- Donate thoughtfully—choose charities that can actually repurpose items
Conserving Energy at Home
What Are Effective Ways to Conserve Energy at Home?
- Install LED lights
- Use smart power boards
- Wash clothes in cold water
- Insulate your home to reduce heating and cooling costs
How Can Reducing Energy Consumption Lower My Carbon Emissions?
Using less energy means fewer fossil fuels burned at power plants. It’s a direct and powerful way to reduce your household’s impact on the planet.
What Are Some Tips for Saving Energy During Heating and Cooling?
- Use ceiling fans before cranking the AC
- Close curtains to keep heat in (or out!)
- Only heat or cool the rooms you use
- Layer up or down before adjusting the thermostat
Plastic-Free Hydration & Conscious Eating
How Can I Use Reusable Water Bottles to Reduce Plastic Waste?
A quality stainless steel or glass water bottle can last for years and keeps your drink cold (or hot). Ditching single-use plastic bottles is one of the easiest sustainable swaps.
How Does My Food Choice Affect Sustainability?
Every bite counts. The food industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and our food choices have ripple effects across water use, land degradation, and biodiversity.
What Are the Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet for the Environment?
Plant-based diets require fewer resources and generate lower emissions. Even one meat-free day per week can make a difference—hello, Meat-Free Monday!
How Do Pesticides Impact Sustainability?
Pesticides can harm ecosystems, pollute water, and affect soil health. Choose organic or spray-free produce when possible, and support growers using regenerative agriculture methods.
What Are Some Sustainable Practices for Buying Food?
- Buy seasonal and local
- Bring your own bags and containers
- Choose items with minimal packaging
- Support co-ops and farmers' markets
Final Thoughts from Harper
Living sustainably isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Each little decision adds up, and together, we can make eco-friendly living the new normal. So whether it’s switching to reusable makeup pads or choosing slow fashion, let’s do our best to protect the planet, one habit at a time.
