What to swap out if you’re looking to go green with your daily routine. 

By Ashima Sethi

I’m not going to lie, there is so much each of us can do to be kinder to our planet that thinking about it can be overwhelming. When I do, I’m often left with no idea where to start, and then I revert back to the same old habits without actively changing anything for the better. So, in order to save myself, and you, from the toxic cycle of ‘maybe I’ll do it tomorrow,’ here’s a handy list of things you can swap out or purchase today that will help you become more eco-friendly.

Reusable water bottle or tumbler: If you’re on the go or even at the office, having one of these will help reduce your plastic waste. Not to mention, they come in so many different colours and styles, and can even be personalised.

Reusable straws: These come in a wide variety of sizes and styles and are often made from steel or bamboo. Our recommendation? Get one that collapses for absolute convenience and don’t forget to buy a matching straw cleaner too!

Reusable tote bag: Always try to have one on hand in case you need to do some shopping or run some errands. Plenty of tote bags are small enough to be folded and kept in your purse, office drawer, or even car for future use.

Produce bag: When buying fresh produce like fruit or vegetables at the grocery store, take along a cotton produce bag or a netted bag instead of using the pull-out plastic ones available.

Set of utensils: We’ve seen some really cute bamboo ones on the market that come in foldable pouches, making them both lightweight and functional.

Food containers and lunchboxes: Time to relive your good ol’ days in elementary school with a reusable lunchbox. For durable options we recommend ones made of silicone, steel, or bamboo.

Toothbrush: It’s a scary thought that every single toothbrush ever created still exists, so it’s time to swap to a bamboo one because the material is easily biodegradable.

Razor: It’s no surprise that disposable razors are AWFUL for the planet. Make the switch to a safety razor as they’re more durable and all you’ll have to do is replace the blades. Also opt for sustainable shaving oils or bars.

Reusable bottles and jars: Bottles of shampoo, detergent, body wash, and others all end up clogging a landfill somewhere, which makes it imperative to switch to reusable bottles instead. Using these bottles you can find locations around
the city like Refill Station (www.refillstationbkk.com) that sell daily items by weight.

Period items: Instead of tampons and disposable pads, opt for more eco-friendly varieties like the menstrual cup, washable pads, and washable wipes.

Beeswax wraps: Instead of using cling wrap or disposable plastics to cover food in the fridge, using beeswax wraps are advantageous because you can wash them and repeat use.

Change your bulbs: Replace incandescent bulbs with energy saving bulbs like compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) that use approximately 70 percent less energy because they produce less heat. If you can, try to incorporate solar power into your home.

Growing your own garden: If you have the opportunity, try growing select herbs you can use in your home cooking like basil, cilantro or kaffir lime. The fruits of your eff orts will make them taste even better!

LOCAL BRANDS WORTH BROWSING:

Rescued Glass
It’s estimated that 28 billion glass bottles and jars end up in landfills every year. Rescued Glass is a new enterprise that ‘rescues’ these items, transforming them into decorative items like wine decanters, vases, and candles.  www.rescuedglass.com

Ecotique
A supplier for eco-friendly products catered to hotels, bars, restaurants, and cafés. From biodegradable toothbrushes to reusable straws and bamboo cups, the brand boasts a wide variety of items. Facebook: @ecotiquethailand

Green Samurai
A one-stop-shop for a bunch of eco-friendly essentials, the brand currently offers washable masks with straps in several colours, basic t-shirts to incorporate into your wardrobe, and two types of tote bags. Facebook: @greensamuraiofficial

Bodhi Bloom
The brand specialises in an array of handcrafted natural soaps, sprays, body scrubs, balms, and natural deodorants made using essential oils and ingredients harvested from healing plants and herbs. Instagram: @bodhibloom

Bambooyst
With many products lovingly crafted from bamboo, this brand is great if you’re looking to purchase straws, lunch boxes, travel tumblers, and water bottles. They also sell an infuser bottle for tea, coffee, or even fruit-infused refreshments.
Instagram: @bambooyst