Eco-warrior’s handbook

If you want to be an advocate for sustainability but are not sure how you can make eco-friendly choices and lead an environmentally conscious lifestyle, here is your definitive guide to go green.

Mindful eating involves attentiveness to the body’s needs and embraces sustainable food choices, fostering a journey that extends benefits to the environment. By appreciating the origins of food, supporting local farmers, and reducing our carbon footprint, it’s a holistic approach that promotes ecological consciousness, ethical production, and a deeper connection to nature.

“Embracing mindful eating doesn’t necessitate going off the grid; small lifestyle changes make a significant impact on both food choices and sustainability. Choose whole foods that require minimal processing and packaging, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and legumes sourced from organic farmers who choose the same for themselves and their families. Choose seasonal produce that is locally, ethically, and sustainably produced, thereby reducing food miles, and having access to fresh food and complete nutrition,” says a spokesperson from Akshayakalpa Organic.

Embracing sustainability in our daily lives encompasses a spectrum of practices, from the simple act of carrying a reusable water bottle to conscientiously rejecting plastic in all its forms. “We have cultivated an herbal garden not just as a scenic attraction, but as a sensory experience for our guests. Encouraging them to take a leisurely stroll, engaging their senses by smelling and touching the plants, serves as a poignant reminder to be present in the moment and connect with nature. We believe that those who appreciate the significance of this exercise may be inspired to replicate it at home, cultivating a small patch of herbal plants. Through such endeavours, we hope to inspire a deeper understanding of nature and foster a collective journey towards heightened environmental consciousness,” says Ashley James, GM, Angsana Oasis Resort and Spa.

If you cannot store, share with the underprivileged people out there. Practice composting both at home and office and use it to grow your own minimal veggies. Reduce using fresh water for all your daily routine. Have recycling systems/ treat black water and use it for toilets, car wash, etc. Try to avoid all chemical-based detergents, and cleaning agents. “Avoid tissue paper usage and carry handkerchiefs. Switch to sustainable, reusable cutlery such as steel plates, tumblers, etc., and stationery and carry them during your travel routine. Learn upcycling skills, like stitching bags from old clothes, making use, or upcycling worn-out materials to something useful, like plastic cans to planters, and join the recycling initiatives. As responsible consumers demand the brands of sustainable practices that they follow across various departments,” says the Akshayakalpa Organic spokesperson. By asking the right questions you can make brands accountable as well.

Minimising waste, optimising consumption, and integrating innovative technologies are some of the immediate measures one can adopt in daily life for water consumption. “Every household should implement a water harvesting system. Fix the leaking pipes on a regular basis as every drop of water counts. Reuse purifier wastewater for cleaning balconies and mopping. Opt for spray cleaning or waterless cleaning for vehicles and opt for bucket and sponge water cleaning instead of a hose. Report leaks of hose in your locality to water utility companies and these measures will help in water conservation,” says Manish Garg, General Manager, Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park.

Your home is your sanctuary and the basic aspect of using non-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) is something that you can overlook. Fortunately, most paint organisations today offer these options. “We prioritise environment and health in product development, infusing ultra-low VOC for sustainable living and safe, eco-friendly dwelling units. Our Paint+ range, featuring Japanese technology, minimises wall painting issues by emitting the fewest toxins, ensuring a healthier indoor environment. Over a decade ago, we introduced nearly zero VOC paints, emphasising our commitment to environmental responsibility across all stages of the product lifecycle,” says a spokesperson from Nerolac. Making a sustainable choice as far as things in everyday life is concerned can be done by taking small steps which eventually will make your life turn over a green leaf.

Tips to embrace sustainability.

• Switch to organic dishwashers and laundry agents.
• Adopt a plant-based lifestyle.
• Throw out plastic and replace it with sustainable and healthy options.
• Choose organic products – for food, cosmetics, and all consumables.
• Make a compost bin for recycling wet waste.
• Develop a small green patch at home.
• Eat local and seasonal food and avoid imported food products.