4 ways to be more sustainable in your day to day life 🌱

It’s almost Earth Day, so I thought I’d share some of the things I try to do in my day to day life (and apply to Luneta, ofc!) in order to be more sustainable and decrease my impact on earth 🌍 People might think that individuals can’t change the current climate crisis, but if each person started making small efforts, can you imagine our combined impact?!

1) Reuse, Recycle, Rethink, Repair

Before buying something new, think about whether you can reuse something you already have. Making the most of existing materials is always the most sustainable option. Here are some easy ways you can do this:

• Shop your wardrobe! What clothes have you not worn in a while and could style in a different way, or could jazz up to bring them new life? Repeat that outfit you love, I guarantee no one (of importance) cares! When I was in uni, I would proudly boast about not repeating an outfit the whole school year, but these days I’m basically like a cartoon character, repeating my favourite looks and wearing different accessories to bring newness to my wardrobe ✨

• Tired of your own clothes? Try a fun clothes swap with friends of similar style and shape. This concept can apply to anything, not just clothes. I do this a lot with jigsaw puzzles and books!

• Before making a purchase, ask yourself, "Will I really use/wear this as much as possible, or do I just want to buy it because it's trendy or on sale right now?". Being honest about this will save you a lot of money, and I speak from personal experience 😅

• Upcycle glass jars, cardboard boxes etc into new things! Think wine bottles as candle stick holders or vases. I like using stickers and washi tape to make them cuter.

• Speaking of upcycling, if your clothes have stains, tears, holes, etc, consider embroidering over them or adding fun patches! I’ve experimented with dyeing garments as well and they turned out great 😊

• Get creative with things you already own! For example, I reuse objects I already have at home, like plates, books, sheets, clothing, vases etc as props for taking photos of Luneta products 🪄

2) Rent or Borrow

Before buying something new, consider whether you could rent or borrow it. Instead of buying a new book, exchange it with a friend or join your local library. For the plant lovers, ask a friend for plant cuttings or get them from public spaces (with permission, of course). Instead of buying clothes or appliances you'll only use once, consider renting them. And of course, don't forget the good old-fashioned borrow. Just remember to return what you borrow, or you’ll lose some friends XD

3) Buy Second-hand or From Small Businesses

If you really need something new, consider buying it second-hand or from a small business. Thrift stores, charity shops, vintage shops, and online platforms like eBay, Etsy, Depop, Vinted, etc., offer great pre-loved items; and Instagram is a great way to discover small businesses. Visiting craft markets in your area is another way to find out about small businesses and keeping money within your community ✨

Moreover, avoid supporting businesses whose values you don't agree with. Do you REALLY need something by tomorrow? Granted, sometimes we do and we can't go out to buy it at the moment. But try your best to plan, shop local, shop early before holidays and birthdays, and vote with your money!! If we all make the conscious choice to buy from ethical companies, the big companies will hear and make the investments needed to be more eco-friendly and pay their workers better. Support smaller and more transparent businesses.

4) Ditch Single-use Products

If you need something new, consider swapping disposable items for reusable ones. Some examples could be:

• Reusable makeup pads instead of cotton pads

• Period cup or panties instead of tampons/sanitary pads

• Reusable water bottle instead of buying individual water bottles

• Reusable cloths instead of kitchen paper

• Reusable bags instead of plastic bags

Last Thoughts

Remember, sustainability is a journey. Start small and don't aim for perfection. Every small step counts! #progressnotperfection

Buying good quality things means you'll have to buy new things less often. So, shop less by buying better. And remember, if you love it and will use it for a long time, then do buy it — especially if you're supporting a small business! ❤️

Lastly, be an influencer in your community. If you set a good example, others will follow.

There are also many activists/writers out there that we can learn from. I love following Aja Barber (read their book: Consumed), Mikaela Loach (read their book: It’s not that Radical), Amanda from Clotheshorse Podcast, Tori Tsui (read their book: It’s not just you), and Dominique Palmer to learn more about climate, consumerism and sustainability.

Join your local climate activism group. I’ve gone to actions organized by Stop Rosebank and Fossil Free London, and although it was scary at times, it really helped me feel like part of a community that cares about the fate of the world, and more hopeful about the possibility of a different future 💞

Thank you for reading. If you’ve gone through the list and would like to invest in colourful sustainable jewellery you’ll reach for again and again, check out my shop ✨ All my jewellery is either handmade to order by me in London with rare vintage beads, or is original vintage, making the most of pre-existing resources 💖