How to be sustainable with your finance, fashion and food

A topic at the forefront of many peoples’ minds in 2019 has been the issue of climate change. How can you, as a consumer make a difference with where you put your money? 

The Global Climate Strike in September saw over 7 million people take to the streets to highlight the need for immediate climate action, to ensure a more sustainable future for generations to come.

In its wake, as a consumer you may be wondering how you can be more sustainable in your everyday life. The good news is that where you put your money counts. 

From your finances to your fashion and food consumption, ensuring you’re an ethical consumer can lead to positive change.  

Choose a bank that has ethical practices 

You might use your savings account as a place to stash your cash or your home loan as a tool to buy your own home, but have you ever considered what your bank is doing with your money?

If you’re unsure if your financial institution is partaking in ethical practices, some things to check include: Do they exclude investment in companies that have negative impacts on the environment like the mining industry and do they use profits to support the local community? 

To see how your bank stacks up when it comes to the ethical use of your money, visit Market Forces or Responsible Returns. And on top of your bank, don’t forget other areas of your finances such as how your superannuation provider invests your money.

Be a sustainable fashionista

If you love a good shopping trip, you can shop up a storm without guilt by going for second-hand pieces over fast fashion.  

Whether it’s shopping at your local charity shop, attending a clothes swap meetup or adding a vintage number to your wardrobe, by going down the second-hand clothing route, you can be rest assured you’re being a sustainable fashion consumer. For more information on ethical fashion, have a read of the Ethical Fashion Guide.

Opt for local and organic food 

How you eat is another important factor influencing your own carbon footprint. Ethical food consumption is easier than you might think, by simply planning ahead and meal planning. 

Choose suppliers that provide local, organic and chemical-free food and avoid the plastic by bringing your own reusable bags and shopping at farmers’ markets. Many wholefoods stores also provide reusable cardboard boxes at the checkout, as well as the option of refilling your own containers.  

And when it comes to items like coffee and chocolate, check that they are Fairtrade.

At home when preparing your meals, consider your family’s food wastage. The IPCC Special Report on Climate Change reveals 30% of food produced globally is lost or wasted.

Each week plan ahead to ensure you’re using all items in your fridge and pantry before the use by date. Not only will you help reduce your family’s food wastage, but you’ll save on your weekly grocery bill too.

By taking the time to be an ethical consumer, you can make a difference with your money and help ensure a better planet for future generations.