Things are hotting up! Yes, summer is on its way, but global warming is also playing its part, and has the potential to push temperatures to unbearable, life threatening temperatures over the coming decades. Things need to change!
At Innermost, we want to make a conscious effort to bring sustainable practices into our lives wherever possible, and we’re urging you to do the same. Whilst switching to sustainable alternatives can seemingly come with a price tag sometimes, it's all about where you look.
It’s also worth about thinking of these changes as an investment. Small changes everyday are one of the few things we can do as individuals to make a difference to the environment and our planet. It can be a bit overwhelming when you first decide to make the change, but there’s no time like the present – so why not start today?
This inspired the Innermost team to devise their top five tips for switching to sustainable this summer. Need some inspiration? Let’s go…
Choose reusable items
Water BottleIf you haven’t already got on the reusable water bottle hype – you’re missing out. Plastic water bottles are one of the most prevalent items that are found washed up on beaches, filling landfills and cluttering up your home. There are some great reusable and sustainable alternatives, including the Chilly Bottle, The Ocean Bottle and Flasky – just to name a few. You can even use these fot hot drinks - win win for the coffee and tea lovers out there.
Cleaning ProductsWhen you think about it, it’s a little bit crazy how many different cleaning products we collect, don’t you think? Wouldn’t it be easier to have one or two reusable bottles that stop that under-the-sink clutter, cut down your use of plastic bottles and help the environment, too? We think so.
Spruce refillable cleaning products are a great way to achieve this and look stylish, too. All you need to do is add water, and the refills and products are even sent right to your door – so there is no excuse for not making the swap.
Swap to sustainable brands
Fitness Brands
If you’re anything like us, you’re always on the hunt for new gym clothes… oops.
There are a great range of sustainable and vegan gym-wear brands that enable you to make eco-conscious choices when it comes to your fitness fashion, and we guarantee you won’t be disappointed by them. Two of our personal favourites include Contur and TALA – both British-based sustainable workout brands from London, making waves with sustainability. We love.
Swimwear Brands
Need to refresh your swimwear wardrobe ready for the warmer months? Why not choose a sustainable brand?
If you need some inspiration, why not check out Boden? Based in London, Boden Swimwear are made from some really out-of-the-box materials – even including discarded ocean fishnets. The brand designs pieces to fit all tastes – including bikinis, tankinis and full suits.
Go vegan
Dietary Alternatives
Making small dietary changes is probably the easiest and most pocket-friendly ways to make a sustainable difference. Swap your dairy milk for a delicious alternative such as oat or almond milk, or perhaps eliminate meats from your diet. If that’s too drastic, try cutting meat or dairy for one or two days a week – every little helps.
The Health Protein
If you’re working on a fitness goal, there’s a good chance you’re probably taking protein supplements. Going vegan doesn’t mean that this has to stop. The Health Protein is a great vegan alternative to whey proteins and is really yummy, too!
Ban single use plastics
Use Alternatives To Straws – If PossibleWhilst most of us have eliminated straws or switched to a paper or metal alternative, it’s important that we remember to do this! Single-use plastics such as straws are hugely detrimental to our environment – especially animals. Stay conscious of this when out and about, at the pub or in a restaurant, and bring your own reusable alternative if you can.
Whilst this isn’t possible for everyone due to a range of factors, if this is a swap you can make – we definitely encourage you to do so!
Shampoo BarsSwitching to shampoo bars is a great way to eliminate all those plastic bottles that collect in your bathroom. Long-lasting, organic and great for your hair, our personal favourite are The Little Soap Company's shampoo bars. Fragranced with essential oils and formulated with only natural ingredients – these are kind to your hair and skin, as well as the planet.
Ditch the car
We all know that driving is bad for the environment – so where possible this summer, it would be great to either arrange a car share with a friend or colleague, or even better: ditch it all together! With the warmer summer weather and lighter evenings, there are plenty of ways you can enjoy the sun without the need of a car: maybe go for a walk or take a bike ride.
Be A Host
Soon, we will be able to host our friends and family in the comfort of our own homes and gardens – so let’s make the most of it! Encourage your pals (if local) to walk or cycle round to your place and host drinks or a BBQ. If that doesn’t scream summer vibes, we’re not sure what will.
Make Use Of Public Transport
If you are travelling somewhere to enjoy the weather and celebrate the opening of bars and restaurants again (yay!), consider taking public transport options like trains and buses to reduce the use of personal vehicles where possible.
