As we move into March, with winter receding and a nod to the spring-cleaning season ahead – making eco-friendly and sustainable choices is more than just an option—it’s a responsibility. These choices not only improve our health and that of our families but also benefit our community and protect our planet.
A lot has been written about sustainability, often making it seem complicated and expensive. But living sustainably doesn’t have to be. Small changes in daily habits and home routines can make a big difference. From reducing waste to choosing eco-friendly products, every step counts. Plus, supporting Canadian-made products helps our federal economy.
Defining Sustainable Living and Its Benefits
Sustainable living means using fewer chemicals, helping to create a cleaner environment. The benefits include:
- Improved air quality: Enjoy cleaner, fresher air in your home and/or office.
- Reduced exposure to toxins: Less harmful chemicals in your environment.
- Better mental health: Knowing you’re contributing to a healthier planet.
As Canadian consumers, there are so many simple but effective ways we can reduce waste, embrace nationally developed green products, stay informed, and enjoy the benefits that come with a more sustainable lifestyle.
Ten easy tips to get started:
- Wash Your Clothes Less Often: Washing clothes less frequently can save water and energy. Pants and sweaters can typically last two to three wears. Underwear and workout gear, however, need more frequent washing. When you do wash, use cold water to reduce energy consumption. For eco-friendly laundry detergents, check out Canadian brands like Tru Earth and Nellie’s.
- Don’t Throw Clothes Away: Instead of throwing old clothes away, consider donating them. If that’s not an option (we get it, parents, et al.), consider repurposing the clothes for home and office needs, like cleaning rags, plant ties, pet bedding, materials for craft projects such as unique tote bags, or pillowcases.
And, moving forward – consider supporting Canadian clothing companies like Encircled, Redwood Classics, and Tentree which provide sustainable fashion options for the whole family. - Limit Food Waste: Food waste in Canada generates ~9.8 million tonnes of CO2 annually, equivalent to the emissions from 2.1 million cars. And don’t think that composting is the silver bullet many of us believe it is: decomposing food waste in landfills produces methane, a greenhouse gas at least 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide. So, plan your meals, store food properly, and use leftovers creatively to minimize food waste.
For meal planning and food storage tips, check out Canada’s Food Guide and Love Food Hate Waste Canada. - Use Recyclable Food Containers: Choose containers made from glass or stainless steel to reduce waste and plastic pollution. Check out U-Konserve for durable, eco-friendly food storage solutions.
- Biodegradable Household Products: Opt for biodegradable products, like dish sponges and trash bags, to reduce the amount of waste in landfills. Canadian brands Aitella and Good Judy make great compostable household products.
- Use Eco-Cleaning Products: Choose cleaning products made from natural, non-toxic ingredients. These products are safer for your health and the environment. Consider Canadian brands like The Unscented Company, Nature Clean, and Attitude.
- Unplug Devices When Not in Use: Many electronic devices consume energy even when turned off. Unplug them when not in use to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint.
- Use Electronic Devices: Using e-devices instead of paper products for reading, note-taking, and communication can reduce paper waste.
- LED Lighting: LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer. Switching to LED lighting can significantly reduce energy consumption and lower electricity bills. Consider Canadian-made options like products from Liteline and Karice Lighting.
- Have Plants Around: Adding plants to your home and office can improve air quality by filtering out toxins and releasing oxygen. Plants also add a touch of nature to your space. They’re not only pretty – but they can also reduce stress and boost your mood. Win-win!
Additional Resources for Canadians
If you’re looking for a deeper dive into eco-friendly and sustainable living at your home or office, here are some good resources you can look into:
- David Suzuki Foundation: Offers great information on sustainable living practices and environmental advocacy.
- Green Communities Canada: Provides resources and programs to help individuals, families and communities become more sustainable.
- Canadian Living’s Eco-Friendly Living Section: Offers practical tips and insights on how individual actions can impact the environment.
It’s March, which means for many of us, we’re thinking about spring cleaning. There’s something refreshing about this annual reset.
This year, if we haven’t already, let’s be inspired to make small changes now that will count throughout the rest of the year. And while doing so, let’s support Canadian companies—every small action matters!
It’s a great time to motivate each other to improve our health, our families’ well-being, and the future of our country and planet.
Happy spring!
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All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2025. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/10-Tips-for-Eco-Friendly-and-Sustainable-Living