Valentina in Shorts

This week I would like to share some things I do to make my lifestyle more sustainable and eco-friendly.  They may seem like small steps, but all the small changes can make a big difference in the end.
From always bringing my own shopping bags, to using a eco-friendly straw or to avoid any foil for wrapping food for example.

I am also aware that it is very difficult to get a complete eco-friendly lifestyle because we are alive and we are having an impact anyway. However I think it is very important to start because every change is an improvement. In this period of world crisis due to the Corona virus we could see big changes in the environmental impact.
That is why I am giving you my tips and I would love to find other people sustainable tips. I also strongly believe in setting a good example and motivating people to a more conscious life.

So here we go.
I grew up in a small town, surrounded by fields, woods and mountains and I always wanted to maintain it. Still my province of origin is the most livable in Italy. I remember as a child when I  used to go to campsites in the mountains with the parish priest and we were used to walk in woods and mountain paths collecting all the individual rubbish. I believe in the importance of setting a good example and if I will be a mother, I will want to do the same with my children.

I grew up going alone to kindergarten and school by public transport and when I could, I preferred to use a bike instead of a car during my university period. Even now, I use my car very little. I could go to work in my car, maybe Ii would take less time, but I think it is a moral commitment to prefer public transport if you have them available. Okay, it’ll take me five minutes more, but it’s not a tragedy!

And then there are new things I am used to.
I usually drink a lot of tea and coffee and because of the substances, bad for teeth, I like to use a straw, in glass or steel. Nowadays there are different types on market. At the moment I like to use the reusable bamboo straws I received as present from Madagascar.

To save the other half of veggies or fruits or something I haven’t eaten , I use reusable silicon foodsaver or reusable containers. I do not need to use any foil. Even when I prepare my meal for lunch I use food container. No foil even if I have a simple sandwich. I want to order the wax wraps because you can wash them and use again!

I don’t buy plastic water bottles anymore and I leave home with my steel bottle of water. Fortunately, the water of our Viennese aqueduct is very good.

For  groceries I always bring my own shopping bag. I have tons of them in every bag, so I cannot forget it.

I prefer to use bar soaps or liquid one but in refills. In generally I am trying to buy less plastic containers and to reuse what I have at home.

I do not use paper napkins but only ones in fabric.

I have stopped to use cotton pads for removing my makeup. I use reusable and washable pads.

I don’t stay more than five minutes in the shower even when I wash my hair. We’re not filthy and there’s no need to waste too much water.

I also started buying a lot less clothing and makeup. I am on the right way to build a minimal timeless wardrobe. Less quality pieces instead of a lot unfair clothes.

About makeup I am trying to buy only pans and refills, if I can. Make up for me is a passion and for that reason it is the harder thing.

Tell me in a comment below all your sustainable tips. I would love to inspire and have a talk about how  we can improve ourselves.  ♥

Valentina