There’s a very special day coming up on April 22nd. Earth Day. 

This day has become increasingly important to me, as I’ve become more aware of my ecological footprint and the state of the planet. As someone who has always felt very drawn to nature, my appreciation for all of mother nature’s creations has also grown stronger with age. 

My love for the planet is just one of the reasons why I’m thrilled to work at Graydon Skincare. I work with like-minded individuals who care about the environment. This love for the planet extends further than the everyday actions we take to live sustainably. It extends to the ingredients found in Graydon products and even our packaging/future packaging plans. I must admit, there’s something very special about working for a company that truly aligns with your beliefs.  

In my humble opinion, every day should be treated as Earth Day. That is, a day to diversify, educate and activate the environmental movement. So in celebration of this very important day, I’d like to share 7 ways you can be more eco-conscious in your everyday life and impactfully fight climate change. 

1. Reduce, reuse, recycle

How could I have started this list anywhere else?! 

Buying less is one of the best ways to make a positive impact on the environment. When you can’t reduce, choose reusable or compostable options. I’m talking about reusable grocery and produce bags, reusable water bottles, compostable coffee pods, etc. 

When reducing and reusing aren't options, then recycle! I encourage you to research your city’s sorting rules. Did you know that some city websites, like the city of Guelph, allow you to type the name of a waste item to find out how to recycle or dispose of it? How awesome is that?!

2. Drive less

Convenience is a wonderful thing. However, do you know what’s even more wonderful? FRESH AIR! Instead of driving, walk, ride your bike, skateboard or rollerblade to your destination. You’ll save money on gas, get exercise and reduce your carbon footprint.

3. Reduce your meat and dairy intake

The livestock industry is responsible for 14.5% of greenhouse gas emissions. Adopting a diet that’s rich in plant foods will not only benefit your health, but the planet as well.

Don’t know where to start? Visit your local holistic nutritionist and check out Laura’s blog from The First Mess for delicious and nutritious plant-based recipes of all kinds! 

4. Eliminate food and packaging waste

I’m talking about only buying what you need, opting for homemade meals instead of fast food or takeaway, buying food from bulk stores and storing your food in a way that improves its shelf life. For example, have you ever tried storing your greens (lettuce, arugula, bok choy, Swiss chard, spinach and fresh herbs) in damp, breathable cotton? I recently adopted this hack and it’s a real game changer. Hello fresh, crispy lettuce for days. 

5. Start a garden and/or buy local

Don’t let the word “garden” intimidate you. You can start small by planting seeds in yogurt cups! That’s exactly how I started. 

Having a garden, whether big or small, is incredibly rewarding and an excellent way to reduce packaging waste. It also helps the Earth’s ecosystem and reduces the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere. 

I recommend purchasing organic seeds from your local health food or garden store. If having a garden isn’t for you or if you can’t grow everything you’d like, then support your local farmers. Shopping at your nearby farmer’s market will support the local economy, provide you with fresher food and will reduce air pollution and fuel consumption. I recommend supporting small, local businesses in general. 

6. Love your home

Loving your home means investing in your home. Start small by replacing old light bulbs with LEDs. This simple change will not only help to lower your electricity bill, but will improve energy efficiency as well. Another simple change you can make is lowering your thermostat in the winter and raising it in the summer. If you want to go all in, consider improving your insulation and investing in triple-paned windows, energy efficient appliances and solar panels. The latter options are on the pricier side, but they’ll be worth it in the long run. 

7. Invest in eco-friendly seasonal equipment

This is a bit of a different one, eh?! I’m talking about a good ole’ fashioned shovel for snow removal and a push mower. Both of these types of equipment are quiet and exercise your body. What’s more is that they don’t emit pollution. 

Final words

I hope you find these 7 tips helpful. Remember that your choices matter and they have an impact on your surroundings. While adopting new eco-friendly habits might seem difficult at the beginning, I can assure you that they’ll easily become a part of your everyday routine. I’m not perfect, nor do I believe that one can truly live a waste-free lifestyle. However, I believe that everyone can make small changes and that together we can make a difference.

*This article was written by Angélique, our Sales + Operations Coordinator