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Cuisine Noir has explored the topic of sustainability through features on brands and those using agricultural practices. Quick refresher: Sustainability means meeting present needs without limiting future generations’ ability to meet their own needs.
Sustainable practices balance environmental, social, and economic factors to minimize ecological damage and maximize positive community results. However, there are other ways to incorporate sustainability into everyday life. Here is a list of sustainable habits.
Sustainable Habits: Reduce Your Meat and Dairy Intake
Our diet plays a significant role in our carbon footprint. A study by researchers at the University of Oxford found that eliminating meat and dairy from your diet could reduce your carbon footprint from food by as much as 73%.
Likewise, a report from the Environmental Working Group revealed that meat and dairy production accounts for approximately 60% of agriculture’s greenhouse gas emissions. Producing meat demands more energy and resources than plant-based foods, and livestock farming contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
A vegetarian or vegan lifestyle presents a compelling option for those seeking personal and environmental benefits through sustainable habits. But if you’re not interested in these lifestyles, the following actions will help and have a positive impact.
Buy Locally
Sustainable habits like choosing locally sourced, seasonal food are key to strengthening local food systems. By selecting locally sourced produce in season (refer to this seasonal calendar for your area), we consume crops grown under optimal conditions, minimizing the need for excessive water, fertilizers, and pesticides.
For instance, locally harvested apples in the fall require significantly less energy for picking and transporting than imports. Seasonal produce offers peak ripeness and nutritional value, and leaving it unwashed and untrimmed extends its freshness.
Local food systems significantly bolster sustainable agriculture. Many local farmers employ organic, regenerative, and low-impact practices, and supporting them increases demand for these methods. Reduced packaging, typical in local systems because of shorter transport distances, minimizes the environmental impact of our food choices.
Reusables
Reusables, such as totes or rags, are sustainable habits. Plastic pollution is a global issue that impacts all ecosystems and life on Earth. Each year, 460 million metric tons of plastic are produced, with 20 million of that finding their way into the environment.
Investing in reusable grocery totes benefits the environment as only 15% of plastic is recycled. The same applies to food storage; glass containers are healthier than plastic. Opt for rags or cloth instead of paper towels or single-use cloths when cleaning.
RELATED: Leslie Woodard Crafts a Legacy of Plant-Based Healing With Edenesque
Beauty, Clothing, and Personal Care
Many brands now adopt sustainable business models emphasizing cruelty-free, vegan, paraben-free, and ethically or locally sourced products. Sustainable clothing involves avoiding fast-fashion companies prioritizing quick mass production and low prices over ethics and sustainability.
Brands such as H&M, Zara, Forever 21, ASOS, Shein, and Fashion Nova are recognized for their rapid production cycles and fashionable designs but face criticism for their environmental and labor effects. Here is a list of Black-owned businesses with sustainable practices for more details.
Shopping locally for clothes, like produce, promotes sustainability and community vitality. Explore nearby consignment stores, thrift shops, and small boutiques to support your local economy while reducing environmental impact. Thrift shops offer unique fashion finds, consignment stores give pre-loved items new life, and boutiques often feature sustainable production practices. Choosing local shopping supports the community while letting you express your style affordably.
Electronics and Gadgets
Constantly upgrading to the latest electronic devices harms the environment, causing resource depletion from mineral extraction, increased energy consumption, and electronic waste. It also shortens product lifespans, as companies prioritize profit over durability.
To adopt more sustainable habits, use electronics for as long as possible and repair them when feasible before replacing them. Cell phones can be particularly challenging, as manufacturers often release software updates that make older models obsolete. However, extending the life of your devices helps reduce waste and lessens the demand for resource-intensive production.
Transportation
If feasible, viable, and safe, consider biking, walking, or using public transit instead of driving. These options help reduce carbon emissions, lower traffic congestion, and minimize reliance on fossil fuels.
Public transportation, such as buses, trains, and subways, is often more energy-efficient while biking and walking promote personal health and well-being. If public transit isn’t accessible, consider carpooling or using ride-sharing services to reduce your environmental impact. Small changes in daily transportation choices can contribute to a more sustainable future.
Travel Green
Have you ever heard of a Green Hotel? These environmentally friendly accommodations use sustainable practices to reduce their ecological footprint. Green Hotel management emphasizes programs that conserve water and energy while minimizing solid waste.
Many Green Hotels earn certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), Green Key, or EarthCheck to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.
Whether for business or leisure, adopt the same sustainable habits you practice at home while traveling. If possible, walk instead of driving. Eat and shop locally, and consider hiring a local guide for sightseeing. All of this supports the community and encourages the formation and long-term engagement of sustainable habits.
