10 ways to reduce how much you consume

Your consumption habits can have a considerable impact on the planet. This year for World Environment Day, which takes place on June 5, consider taking stock of your daily practices to determine how you can adopt a greener lifestyle. If you’re not sure where to begin, here are some ideas to get you started.

1. Always ask yourself if you really need a product before you buy it. Avoid purchasing items that are likely to end up at the bottom of a drawer.

2. Extend the lifespan of your appliances by getting them repaired by a professional. You may be able to fix minor issues yourself with the help of an online tutorial.

3. Learn how to recognize quality materials and design, so you can choose products that will last a long time.

4. Rent or borrow equipment that you only intend to use occasionally. Keep this in mind before you purchase tools, cleaning equipment, and sporting goods.

5. Buy used goods such as clothing, toys, tools, and cell phones whenever possible.

6. Choose products that are made or grown locally or that have other eco-friendly features.

7. Sell or give away items you no longer want. If something’s still in good condition, there’s no reason it should end up in the garbage.

8. Avoid single-use and over-packaged products. In particular, steer clear of plastic bags, paper napkins, throwaway cutlery and single-serve snacks.

9. Minimize your consumption of beef, dairy products, and processed foods, as these require high amounts of energy and resources to grow, produce and package.

10. Cut back on food waste by making a grocery list and checking expiration dates on the items you buy.

To learn more about World Environment Day, visit worldenvironmentday.global.