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The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide

The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide

Everything you need to know to make small changes that make a big difference
by Jen Gale 2020 304 pages
4.09
500+ ratings
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Key Takeaways

1. Conscious consumption: Buy less, buy better, make it last

"Every time you spend money, you're casting a vote for the kind of world you want."

Mindful purchasing. The first step towards sustainable living is to become a conscious consumer. This means critically evaluating our needs versus wants, and making thoughtful decisions about what we buy. By reducing our overall consumption and focusing on quality over quantity, we can significantly decrease our environmental impact.

Buyerarchy of needs. Sarah Lazarovic's "buyerarchy of needs" provides a helpful framework for conscious consumption:

  • Use what you have
  • Borrow
  • Swap
  • Thrift
  • Make
  • Buy (as a last resort)

By following this hierarchy, we can minimize unnecessary purchases and make the most of existing resources. When we do need to buy something new, choosing high-quality, durable items that will last longer helps reduce waste and supports more sustainable production practices.

2. Zero waste: Refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle, rot

"There is no 'away'. When we throw anything away it must go somewhere."

Waste hierarchy. The zero waste movement aims to minimize the amount of waste sent to landfills or incineration. The waste hierarchy provides a framework for achieving this goal:

  1. Refuse: Say no to unnecessary items
  2. Reduce: Minimize consumption
  3. Reuse: Find new uses for items
  4. Recycle: Process materials for new products
  5. Rot: Compost organic waste

Practical steps. To move towards a zero waste lifestyle:

  • Conduct a waste audit to identify areas for improvement
  • Use reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and coffee cups
  • Compost food scraps and yard waste
  • Learn to repair items instead of replacing them
  • Choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging

By implementing these practices, we can significantly reduce our waste output and support a more circular economy.

3. Plastic-free living: Tackle the Big Four and beyond

"Up to 700,000 microplastic fibres are released from a single clothes wash."

The Big Four. Start by tackling the most common single-use plastic items:

  1. Plastic bottles: Switch to reusable water bottles
  2. Plastic bags: Use cloth or other reusable bags
  3. Coffee cups: Bring your own reusable cup
  4. Straws: Use paper, metal, or bamboo alternatives (or skip them altogether)

Beyond the basics. Once you've mastered the Big Four, consider:

  • Using bar soap and shampoo instead of liquid versions in plastic bottles
  • Choosing plastic-free packaging for groceries and household items
  • Switching to reusable food wraps instead of plastic wrap
  • Using a safety razor instead of disposable razors
  • Opting for natural fiber clothing to reduce microplastic pollution

Remember, it's about progress, not perfection. Every small change adds up to make a significant impact on reducing plastic pollution.

4. Sustainable food choices: Eat seasonally, locally, and mindfully

"If food waste were a country, it would be the 3rd biggest emitter of greenhouse gases (after the USA and China)."

Sustainable eating habits. To reduce the environmental impact of our diets:

  • Eat seasonally and locally to reduce food miles
  • Reduce meat consumption, especially red meat
  • Choose organic and Fairtrade products when possible
  • Plan meals to reduce food waste
  • Compost unavoidable food waste

Reducing food waste. Practical tips to minimize food waste:

  • Conduct a regular fridge audit
  • Use up leftovers creatively
  • Understand the difference between "best before" and "use by" dates
  • Freeze excess produce or meals for later use
  • Donate excess non-perishable items to food banks

By making mindful choices about what we eat and how we manage our food, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and support more sustainable food systems.

5. Ethical fashion: Shop secondhand, swap, and support sustainable brands

"Extending the life of clothes by just nine months of active use could reduce carbon, water and waste footprints by around 20–30 per cent."

Sustainable fashion choices. To minimize the environmental and social impact of our clothing:

  • Shop secondhand: Thrift stores, online platforms, and clothing swaps
  • Choose quality over quantity: Invest in well-made pieces that last
  • Support ethical brands: Research companies' sustainability practices
  • Care for clothes properly: Wash less often, at lower temperatures, and line dry when possible
  • Repair and upcycle: Learn basic mending skills and get creative with old clothes

Microfiber pollution. To reduce microfiber shedding from synthetic clothes:

  • Wash full loads at lower temperatures
  • Use a Guppyfriend washing bag or Cora Ball to catch microfibers
  • Choose natural fibers when possible
  • Air dry clothes instead of using a tumble dryer

By making more conscious choices about our clothing, we can help reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry and promote more ethical production practices.

6. Eco-friendly home: Switch to renewable energy and save resources

"Switching to a renewable energy supplier is one of the six high impact actions that we can take as individuals to mitigate climate change."

Energy-saving measures. To reduce your home's energy consumption:

  • Switch to a renewable energy supplier
  • Improve insulation in walls, roof, and windows
  • Use LED light bulbs and turn off lights when not in use
  • Opt for energy-efficient appliances
  • Lower your thermostat by 1°C (can save up to 10% on heating bills)

Water conservation. Simple ways to save water at home:

  • Fix leaky faucets and toilets
  • Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators
  • Collect rainwater for garden use
  • Reuse greywater from sinks and showers for flushing toilets or watering plants
  • Only run full loads in washing machines and dishwashers

By implementing these changes, you can significantly reduce your home's environmental impact and often save money on utility bills in the process.

7. Sustainable family life: Involve everyone in making greener choices

"Buying less costs less."

Family engagement. To create a more sustainable household:

  • Have open discussions about environmental issues and solutions
  • Watch documentaries or read books about sustainability together
  • Set family challenges, like a plastic-free week or no-buy month
  • Involve children in eco-friendly activities like gardening or upcycling projects
  • Lead by example and celebrate small wins

Sustainable parenting. Tips for raising eco-conscious kids:

  • Choose secondhand or sustainable options for baby gear and toys
  • Opt for reusable nappies and wipes when possible
  • Encourage outdoor play and connection with nature
  • Teach kids to repair and care for their belongings
  • Support schools and clubs in adopting sustainable practices

By involving the whole family in sustainable living, we can create lasting habits and foster a new generation of environmentally conscious individuals.

8. Green work practices: Implement eco-friendly policies in the office

"Leaving a computer on overnight for a year creates enough CO2 to fill a double-decker bus."

Office sustainability. Key areas to focus on for a greener workplace:

  • Energy efficiency: Use LED lighting, turn off equipment when not in use
  • Waste reduction: Implement recycling and composting programs
  • Sustainable procurement: Choose eco-friendly office supplies and equipment
  • Green transportation: Encourage cycling, walking, or public transport use
  • Digital solutions: Reduce paper use through digital document management

Employee engagement. Ways to involve staff in sustainability efforts:

  • Form a "green team" to lead initiatives
  • Provide sustainability training and resources
  • Recognize and reward eco-friendly behaviors
  • Organize sustainability-themed events or challenges
  • Encourage remote work or flexible hours to reduce commuting

By implementing sustainable practices at work, we can extend our environmental impact beyond our personal lives and influence larger organizational change.

9. Eco-conscious education: Foster sustainability in schools

"Schools embracing environmental initiatives can help their pupils to have a voice, as well as reducing their own environmental impact."

School sustainability initiatives. Ways to promote eco-friendly practices in education:

  • Implement recycling and composting programs
  • Create school gardens or outdoor classrooms
  • Organize litter picks and environmental awareness days
  • Reduce energy use through efficiency measures and behavior change
  • Incorporate sustainability into the curriculum across subjects

Student empowerment. Encourage student-led environmental initiatives:

  • Form eco-clubs or councils
  • Participate in programs like Eco-Schools
  • Organize sustainability-themed events or competitions
  • Collaborate with local environmental organizations
  • Encourage students to share their knowledge with families and communities

By fostering environmental awareness and action in schools, we can empower the next generation to become stewards of the planet and drive positive change.

10. Low-impact travel: Choose greener transportation options

"Travel by train instead of plane within Europe can result in up to a 90 per cent reduction in carbon emissions."

Sustainable transport choices. To reduce the environmental impact of travel:

  • Choose public transportation, walking, or cycling for short trips
  • Opt for train travel instead of flying when possible
  • If driving, consider electric or hybrid vehicles
  • Use car-sharing or carpooling services to reduce individual car use
  • Combine trips to minimize overall travel

Eco-friendly vacations. Tips for more sustainable holidays:

  • Choose destinations closer to home
  • Stay in eco-friendly accommodations
  • Support local businesses and economies
  • Respect local cultures and environments
  • Offset carbon emissions from necessary flights

By making more conscious choices about how we travel, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint while still enjoying new experiences and cultures.

11. Celebrate sustainably: Rethink gifting and party practices

"Maybe it's time we started to question a little bit our need to celebrate with 'stuff'."

Sustainable celebrations. Ideas for eco-friendly events:

  • Send digital invitations instead of paper
  • Use reusable decorations or natural elements like flowers and plants
  • Opt for reusable plates, cups, and cutlery instead of disposables
  • Choose local, seasonal, and organic food options
  • Encourage guests to carpool or use public transport

Mindful gifting. Alternatives to traditional gift-giving:

  • Give experiences instead of physical items
  • Choose secondhand or handmade gifts
  • Donate to a charity in the recipient's name
  • Offer your time or skills as a gift
  • Create a gift registry to avoid unwanted presents

By rethinking our approach to celebrations and gifting, we can create meaningful experiences while reducing waste and unnecessary consumption.

12. Everyday activism: Use your voice and choices to create change

"All of these small actions add up to change the world."

Personal impact. Ways to be an everyday activist:

  • Make sustainable choices in your daily life
  • Share your sustainability journey with others
  • Support businesses and brands that align with your values
  • Write to your representatives about environmental issues
  • Participate in local environmental initiatives or clean-ups

Digital activism. Using technology to amplify your impact:

  • Share information and resources on social media
  • Sign and share online petitions for environmental causes
  • Use apps to track and reduce your carbon footprint
  • Participate in online campaigns like #whomademyclothes
  • Leave reviews or feedback for businesses based on their sustainability practices

Remember, every action counts. By consistently making sustainable choices and encouraging others to do the same, we can collectively drive significant positive change for our planet.

Last updated:

FAQ

What's The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide about?

  • Focus on Small Changes: The book emphasizes making small, manageable changes in daily life that can collectively lead to significant positive impacts on the environment.
  • Conscious Consumption: It encourages readers to rethink their consumption habits, advocating for less buying and more thoughtful purchasing decisions.
  • Practical Advice: Jen Gale shares actionable tips across various aspects of life, including food, fashion, and family, making sustainable living accessible to everyone.

Why should I read The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide?

  • Empowerment Through Knowledge: The book provides insights into the environmental challenges we face and empowers readers to take action without feeling overwhelmed.
  • Realistic Approach: It offers a realistic perspective on sustainable living, acknowledging that perfection is not necessary and that every small step counts.
  • Inspiration for Change: Readers will find inspiration from Gale's personal journey and the practical steps she outlines, making it easier to incorporate sustainability into their lives.

What are the key takeaways of The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide?

  • Embrace the 'ish': The concept of 'sustainable(ish)' suggests that striving for sustainability doesn't require perfection; it's about making better choices where possible.
  • Conscious Consumption: The book stresses the importance of being mindful about what we buy and consume, as household consumption is responsible for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Actionable Steps: Gale provides numerous actionable tips, from reducing plastic use to embracing secondhand shopping, that readers can implement immediately.

What are the best quotes from The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide and what do they mean?

  • "You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you.": This quote emphasizes personal responsibility and the idea that our daily choices matter in the larger context of environmental impact.
  • "Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.": This highlights the power of collective action, suggesting that individual efforts can lead to significant change when adopted by many.
  • "Buy less, buy better, make it last.": This quote from Vivienne Westwood encapsulates the book's message about prioritizing quality over quantity in our consumption habits.

What is conscious consumption as defined in The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide?

  • Thoughtful Purchasing: Conscious consumption involves being aware of the impact of our purchases on the environment and society, leading to more informed buying decisions.
  • Reducing Waste: It encourages minimizing unnecessary purchases and focusing on items that are truly needed, which helps reduce waste and resource depletion.
  • Impact Awareness: The book highlights that household consumption is responsible for over 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions, making it crucial to rethink our buying habits.

How can I start reducing my plastic use according to The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide?

  • Focus on the Big Four: Gale suggests starting with the most common single-use plastics: plastic bottles, bags, coffee cups, and straws, and finding reusable alternatives for each.
  • Conduct a Plastic Audit: By tracking the plastic waste generated in a week, readers can identify specific areas to target for reduction and make informed choices moving forward.
  • Embrace Reusables: Investing in reusable items like water bottles and shopping bags can significantly cut down on single-use plastic consumption.

What is the waste hierarchy mentioned in The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide?

  • Refuse, Reduce, Reuse: The waste hierarchy prioritizes refusing unnecessary items, reducing what we consume, and reusing items before considering recycling or disposal.
  • Last Resort Recycling: Recycling is seen as a last resort, emphasizing that we should aim to minimize waste at the source rather than relying on recycling as a solution.
  • Mindful Disposal: The hierarchy encourages thinking about the end-of-life of products and making choices that prevent waste from entering landfills.

How does The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide suggest we can reduce food waste?

  • Meal Planning: Gale recommends meal planning to ensure that food is used efficiently and to minimize the chances of items going bad and being thrown away.
  • Love Your Leftovers: The book encourages readers to creatively use leftovers and avoid wasting food by incorporating them into new meals.
  • Food Waste Audit: Conducting a food waste audit can help identify the most commonly wasted items, allowing for targeted strategies to reduce waste.

What are some sustainable fashion tips from The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide?

  • Shop Your Wardrobe: Gale encourages readers to explore their existing clothing before buying new, as many people have items they’ve forgotten about.
  • Embrace Secondhand: Shopping at thrift stores and participating in clothing swaps can help reduce the demand for fast fashion and extend the life of garments.
  • Buy Better: When purchasing new clothes, focus on quality and sustainability, opting for ethical brands that prioritize fair labor practices and environmentally friendly materials.

How can families implement sustainable practices according to The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide?

  • Involve Everyone: Engage family members in discussions about sustainability and involve them in activities like beach clean-ups or plastic audits to foster a collective sense of responsibility.
  • Lead by Example: Parents can model sustainable behaviors, making eco-friendly choices that children can observe and learn from.
  • Make It Fun: Incorporating games or challenges related to sustainability can make the process enjoyable and encourage family participation in reducing their environmental impact.

What is the ‘Buyerarchy of Needs’ mentioned in The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide?

  • Concept Overview: The ‘Buyerarchy of Needs’ is a framework that prioritizes sustainable choices, suggesting that we should first consider using what we already have before buying new items.
  • Encourages Mindfulness: This concept promotes mindfulness in consumption, urging individuals to think critically about their needs and the environmental impact of their purchases.
  • Practical Application: The book provides examples of how to apply this concept in daily life, such as borrowing, swapping, or buying secondhand before considering new purchases.

How can I get involved in activism as suggested in The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide?

  • Start Small: Begin by making small changes in your own life, such as reducing plastic use or supporting local businesses. These actions can inspire others and create a ripple effect.
  • Engage with Community: Join local environmental groups or initiatives to connect with like-minded individuals. This can amplify your impact and provide support for your efforts.
  • Use Your Voice: Don’t hesitate to speak up about issues that matter to you, whether through social media, writing to your MP, or participating in local campaigns. Every voice counts in advocating for change.

Review Summary

4.09 out of 5
Average of 500+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide receives mostly positive reviews, with readers appreciating its approachable, non-judgmental tone and practical tips for sustainable living. Many find it an excellent starting point for those new to environmentalism, offering achievable suggestions without overwhelming. The book's UK-centric focus is noted as both a strength and limitation. Readers value the author's honesty about her own journey and the emphasis on making small changes. Some criticize the middle-class perspective, but overall, it's praised for its accessibility and encouragement of imperfect efforts towards sustainability.

Your rating:

About the Author

Jen Gale is the author of The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide, drawing from her experiences as a former veterinarian and mother of two. She spent eight years researching and blogging about sustainable living before writing the book. Gale's approach emphasizes making small, manageable changes towards a more eco-friendly lifestyle, acknowledging that perfection isn't necessary or realistic for most people. Her writing style is described as conversational and humorous, making complex environmental issues more accessible to a mainstream audience. Gale's background and personal journey towards sustainability inform her practical, non-judgmental approach to guiding others in adopting more environmentally conscious habits.

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