Mindful consumption is the most powerful action an individual can take to realise personal freedom and ensure humanity’s existence

Q: What simple swaps to you recommend for a more sustainable lifestyle?

A: Thanks for my first ever question Amanda. Here’s a list of simple yet effective swaps you can make:

1. Shopping Bags: Replace plastic shopping bags with reusable cloth or canvas bags. These are sturdier, can be used repeatedly and are easy to wash.

2. Water Bottle: Always take a reusable water bottle with you if you will need water instead of single-use plastic bottles. Options include stainless steel, glass, or BPA-free plastics.

3. Keep Cup: Always take your own reusable coffee mug instead of using disposable cups, if you intend to have takeaway cuppa. Not my thing really, I like to sit in the cafe if I am going to have a coffee.

4. Food Wrap: Substitute plastic cling film with beeswax wraps, which are washable, reusable, and compostable.

5. Utensils: Carry your own set of reusable utensils made of bamboo or stainless steel to avoid using disposable plastic ones.

6. Paper Towels and Washing / Cleaning Cloths: Use cloth towels or microfiber cloths instead.

7. Light Bulbs: Replace incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs, which are more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan.

8. Personal Care Products: Choose bar soaps, shampoos, and conditioners instead of bottled ones to reduce plastic packaging. Look for products sold without packaging or in recyclable packaging - this applies to all products.

9. Packaging Materials: When shipping or storing items, use paper tape and biodegradable packing materials instead of plastic tape and bubble wrap.

10. Cleaning Products: Choose concentrated or refillable eco-friendly cleaning products, reducing the need for new plastic bottles.

11. Grocery Packaging: Shop in bulk when possible, using your own containers, to minimize packaging waste from pre-packaged items.

12. Takeaway Containers: Bring your own containers for take-away or leftovers when dining out to avoid single-use plastic or styrofoam containers. I do this at my favourite Thai take-away.

13. Notebooks: Opt for digital notes or recycled paper notebooks instead of virgin paper versions.

These swaps not only contribute to reducing your personal ecological footprint but also support industries that are working towards greater sustainability. Adopting these changes can help cultivate a mindful consumption pattern that aligns with the values of the Prolific movement.