3 tips for green parenting

A sustainable, green lifestyle can seem impossible with kids. However, making a few simple swaps can benefit the planet and your baby. Here are a few things to try.

1. Use cloth diapers. Parents throw away billions of non-biodegradable disposable diapers each year. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, switch to reusable cloth diapers made of natural materials. They’re more expensive upfront but will save you money down the line, especially if you have more than one child.

2. Avoid plastic toys. Children’s toys are a significant source of plastic pollution. Therefore, look for high-quality wooden toys instead of plastic ones. Wood toys are BPA- and BPS-free and generally last much longer than their plastic counterparts.

3. Make your baby food at home. Store-bought baby food must be processed, packaged, and transported, producing greenhouse gas emissions. Making your baby food yourself is a simple way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money. For example, you can blend up and freeze vegetables like green beans, peas, and carrots. Moreover, you can rest easy knowing the food doesn’t contain additives, preservatives, or packaging excretions.

Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Taking care of your little one is a demanding job in and of itself, so don’t try to do everything at once.