If you’ve ever tried to become more sustainable, then you probably already know the basics, like avoiding single-use plastics, using reusable totes at the grocery store, and buying second-hand whenever possible. Aside from the usual, there are other surprising ways to be more environmentally conscious. Not only are these eco suggestions smart, but they are also really easy to work into your normal routine.
Even the smallest adjustments make an impact. By implementing changes, you’ll be working to lower your carbon footprint and make the world a better place.
denira / ShutterstockHere are three unexpected ways to be more eco-friendly.
1. Toothpaste Tablets
We’ve all been there — the toothpaste tube has reached the end of its life and you’re squeezing, just trying to get that one last bit of toothpaste out. What if there was a way for you to never deal with this burden again?
Enter toothpaste tablets. This product comes in a jar that can be a forever replacement for the toothpaste tube. All you have to do is chew a bit on the tablet and grab your wet toothbrush. The tablet foams up and allows you to start brushing like normal.
A whopping one billion toothpaste tubes end up in landfills each year. You could make a smaller impact by opting for toothpaste tablets. Bite is a company that will deliver a four-month supply (248 tablets) straight to your door. It’s made with vegan-friendly ingredients and a flavor that will leave your mouth feeling minty fresh. The subscription gives you a glass jar to refill, so brushing your teeth will now be a no-plastic process.
Bite sells other eco-friendly products to add to your hygiene routine, such as plastic-free dental floss, plant-based toothbrushes, and mouthwash tablets.1
2. Reusable Food Storage Bags
Plastic food storage bags are a handy way of bringing food on the go. Unfortunately, convenience comes at a price.
According to Recycle Nation, the average family uses 500 Ziplock bags a year. While it’s possible to reuse them with proper care, most of them will be dumped in the garbage after one use.2
Instead, you can buy food storage bags that are specifically made to be reused. They’re typically made of silicone and sealed with a zipper to prevent leaks and keep food fresh. Many different brands of reusable storage bags can be flipped inside out and thrown into the dishwasher for easy cleaning.
Reusable food storage bags come in different shapes and sizes to meet all of your on-the-go needs. Plus, silicone is super durable and will last you a long time. Some notable products worth checking out include:
- AISHN Reusable Silicone Food Bag Storage ($16.99);3
- Freshmage 6-Pack Reusable Storage Bags ($10.99), and;4
- Rezip 3-Piece Stand-Up Leakproof Reusable Storage Bag Kit ($19.99).5
3. Ditch Google for Another Search Engine
As reliable as Google is, there isn’t anything special about it. Your search for what you want, click on it, and you’re done. Instead, why not switch to a search engine that promotes a social cause? It’s a free way to get the information you need and at the same time, support a company that’s working to make the world a better place.
There are several search engines to consider. All of them are functional and will get you what you need as Google would, but an environmental cause will also benefit from your queries.
Here are some search engines to consider trying out.
Ekoru
By using Ekoru, you can support initiatives to help clean the oceans. The company raises revenue for partners Big Blue Ocean Cleanup and Operation Posidonia that work to clear the oceans. Plus, all your searches are eco-friendly since all Ekoru servers are powered by hydroelectricity.6
Ecosia
Restore the planet while you browse by using Ecosia. Users can support tree planting initiatives in harsh environmental climates simply by choosing this search engine. So far, over 120 million trees and counting have been planted thanks to Ecosia users.
Ecosia runs on 200 percent renewable energy, This means every search request removes one kilogram of CO2 from the atmosphere. Make Ecosia your go-to search engine by searching for the URL or adding it to your Google Chrome for quick access.7
Givero
Choose which environmental cause is most important to you and support it by using Givero. Your searches could fund the protection of animals, reforestation efforts, action against climate change, and other worthwhile initiatives. Alternatively, you could not select one charity and Givero will support all causes evenly based on your action.8
