1) Do Your Research
It's one thing to make your shopping list, but another to know who and what's behind what you're buying. Do your research! What companies are you supporting? Do their values align with yours? Can you find a local alternative? Shopping locally keeps money in your own communities. Take the time to get to know the workers and small business owners. Conversations go a long way. Not only will you find that they're likely your neighbors, but that they're willing to do just about anything to help you get what you need! If they don't have it, they probably know someone who does. And give what they have in stock a chance. Perhaps you don't really need to have that certain color? Smaller shops can't support the large inventories of major companies, but think about it, a blue water bottle works just as well as a purple one, right?
2) Plan Ahead
Optimize your shopping trip by planning your route ahead of time. No need to drive back and forth; if you map out your stops you'll be more efficient and save on gas (and therefore lower your carbon footprint)! Alternately, you could do all your shopping downtown. Parking and/or walking (or biking) to shops is the most earth-friendly way and I guarantee the fresh air and movement will do your body and spirits some good.
3) Be Prepared
Inevitably you'll need a bag to carry your purchases and, of course, someone will get hungry. Here are some key items to bring with you to insure happiness levels stay in check. Oh, and they'll keep you from needing to use disposable paper/plastic goods while you're out! Win!
- Reusable Snack Bag: Ditch those plastic bags for a cuter, reusable option! Easy to clean, you can just throw these snack-sized bags in the dish washer. Did I mention that they also come in sandwich bag size?
- Badger Lip Balm: My current favorite is the Tea Tree & Lemon flavor. The primary ingredients are cocoa butter, olive oil, and beeswax. Plus, the Badger Company is right here in NH! Their Hardworking Hands balm is awesome too...
- Stainless Steel Insulated Tumbler: Keep your hot beverages warm for hours AND avoid adding yet another disposable cup to some landfill. Coffee shops will often give you a discount for bringing your own mug...
- Stainless Steel Water Bottle: How is it that plastic water bottles are still a thing? Bring your own water bottle and fill it up for free. It's a no-brainer.
- Reusable Napkin: People Towels makes some super cute, organic cotton towels that are small enough to fit in a purse. Use that instead of a paper napkin or towel, throw it in the wash after a few uses, and repeat!
- Bamboo Utensils: Purchased lunch while you were out? Use your own reusable utensils instead of the plastic ones offered. Think about how much less waste we'd create if everyone did this!
- Chico Bag: Reusable shopping bags are the way to go. Clip this one to your coat pocket or purse and you'll never forget it "in the back of the car."
- Hemp Backpack: Hemp is awesome because it's easily grown without the use of harmful/toxic pesticides, and among other beneficial factors, it's one of the strongest/most insulating/absorbent of the naturally occurring fibers.
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