Five Ways To Help Save the Planet in 2021

We’ve all turned over a new leaf in 2021 and we can only hope that things pick up this year. The Coronavirus pandemic certainly put a lot of things into perspective for us and if there’s one resolution we should have this year, it should most certainly be to do more to help save the planet. While the issue of rising CO2 levels and climate change remains, there are things we can do individually to make a difference and make the planet a safer place. We rounded up five easy ways you can help save the planet, as compiled by Vogue.

1. Shop responsibly

A staggering 100 billion garments are produced on a yearly basis and now is the time more than ever to change the way in which we shop. It is important now to implement the ‘buy less, buy better’ mindset. Whenever you’re shopping, pause a moment and question whether you really need something, why are you buying it and how much use you’re actually going to get out of it.

2. Avoid single-use plastic

In the recent past, there has been an increase in the knowledge pertaining to single-use plastic. We now better understand the importance of reusable water bottles, disposable cups and eliminating the use of plastic straws. Where possible, opt out of using single-use plastic. For instance, take your own coffee flask when you go for your coffee run or take your own jute bag when you head out for grocery shopping.

3. Look after your clothes

You could ensure your clothes last a long time by not overwashing them. Not only will you be getting more wear out of your clothes but you will also contribute towards reducing the carbon footprint. If you usually discard a piece of clothing if it tears or a button falls off, then you can instead have it repaired which in turn will extend the life of your wardrobe.

4. Try and rent it

The wedding industry saw a huge shift during the pandemic, with many weddings and events from the social calendar being postponed or cancelled or scaled down to more intimate affairs. However, in time, social calendars will start filling up and it’s not necessary to shop for new clothes that you might not wear again. Look for alternate options like renting an outfit or borrowing from a friend. There are a number of options available that rent out formal wear and festive wear for any occasion.

5. Opt for cruelty-free beauty products

There are still a number of brands in the market that test products on animals. To avoid using products by brands that indulge in this practice, always read the labels and question where and how these products are made. A number of products claim to be vegan or cruelty-free but this may not necessarily be the case.