What is Wind Energy?

In an effort to become as environmentally friendly as possible, eco-shopping is an area of keen consideration. For it to be a truly viable process, all aspects must be identified and kept as low-impact as possible.

Eco-friendly transportation

When on an eco-shopping trip, transportation is where to start. Use public transportation whenever possible. If not, combine your errands into as few trips as possible. If you can work it out, arrange to go shopping with a number of friends to reduce emissions from increased vehicle population.

If you are buying a car, look for high gas mileage ratings, and low emissions. Electric vehicles have the best numbers in this area, followed by hybrids, and engines with fewer cylinders.

Product selection

The eco-friendly shopper does his or her homework. Whether shopping for food, household items, cleaning materials, clothing, or anything for that matter, the eco-savvy consumer covers all angles.

Eco-friendly groceries

Buy food that is produced under sustainable and fair trade conditions, if possible. Make sure it is appropriately organic (do not buy products that present themselves as organic when it is unnecessary), and try to buy products from as close to where you live as are available. All of these features work together to keep emissions low, reduce the need for non-renewable energy sources, and restrict degradation of the environment.

Packaging of food products is also important. Purchase items with minimal packaging and packaging that can be composted or recycled. Also, bring your own shopping bags, preferably ones made from recycled or certified organic materials. If you have the ability, make your own from worn out or outgrown clothing, bed linens, or stray pieces of fabric. Decorate them with plant based inks for a more artistic touch.

Eco-friendly clothing

When shopping for clothes and accessories, look for items made from natural, certified organic materials. Most commonly, these will be organic hemp, organic cotton, and organic linen. The certified organic label is the shopper’s reassurance that the material has not been treated with pesticides, organic fertilizers were used for growing, and sustainable methods were employed. In addition, the material was not treated with chemicals that will retard its breakdown once time has come to send it to the compost pile.

Eco-friendly cleaning materials

For cleaning accessories, such as mops, rags, and sponges, use the same line of thinking as when purchasing clothing – stick with certified organic products. From brooms, purchase those made from recycled materials or buy a corn broom. For cleaning products, stick with those that are rated environmentally safe. Be careful with biodegradables – this word does not necessarily mean they are safe, nor that they will break down quickly. The Environmental Protection Website has a wealth of information on safe cleaning chemicals and detergents.

Eco-shopping can be pursued in other areas. The best rule of thumb is to stick to certified organic materials, and those produced under sustainable conditions.