Why 'Planet conscious' is a hot topic right now and the steps you can take to be more planet conscious.
Over the past 10 – 15 years there has been a growing need for people and organisations all over the world to move away from 'business as usual' and start to consider their practices, services, and consumables through the lens of sustainability. But if we take this at face value, to sustain, is just maintaining what already exists. So for long-term and profound change to happen, we have to go beyond sustainability. This is why, at Beyond Bamboo, we coined the phrase ‘Planet Conscious’.
“The recent IPCC reports highlight the fact that it is now more important than ever that sustainability is at the very heart of our decision making, in our personal or professional lives. I have found that I prefer planet-conscious products in my home as I'm reducing harmful chemicals around myself and my children, as well as reducing waste. It also allows us to have conversations which I know are going to inspire respect and kindness for all living things”. Emily Doe Brand Warrior Beyond Bamboo.
To be part of the solution for a bright future as humans living on earth, it is important to be 'planet conscious' in each decision we make. It will allow you to live in a way that reduces the harmful impact on the environment and therefore upon ourselves, and future generations to come.
Being planet conscious really does (like so many other important factors in culture) start in our home. Whilst businesses are now being called by governmental legislation to improve their practices, services, and products to be more environmentally sustainable, there is a bigger picture to paint! As consumers, we have a very important role to play in all of this. Be more conscious of how a business or brand we buy from interacts and cares, not only for the environment and wildlife but also for its people and supply chains. How does the company give back to the community? If you take all of this into account, you will be a more planet-conscious person and help influence and shape the future of our health and happiness in the world.
So how can you easily become more planet conscious when choosing services and products to purchase?
1. Be discerning!
It is extremely encouraging to see so many organisations becoming more environmentally focused. Being more sustainable in the way we live is something that many people really care about. It is important though, to be discerning and take a little time to check the products you buy. Be confident that the brands you support are truly doing what they say and are, and considering all of the aspects of sustainability. How are they working towards a cleaner and greener future and looking to go beyond, to rejuvenate ecosystems and improve lives? Look out for recognised accreditations such as B Corp, as these companies have passed a rigorous set of standards that ensures they are working for the good of all and have plans to continually improve.
2. Think about the packaging and waste
How are your products packaged? Is the packaging necessary in the first place? Does it contain single-use plastics? We have used many things wrapped or contained in plastic and sticky tape. It is great if your products are supplied in cardboard or paper as they can easily be composted at home or recycled. Glass and aluminium are also both infinitely recyclable and if you do purchase any plastic bottles, be sure that they are made from recycled plastic, and are preferably refillable and reusable too. Of course, it's always worth considering whether you actually need that new product at all. Reducing what we buy, in order to reduce waste!
3. Think local
Where possible, support your local brands. Companies like mybird.com are a great example of what amazing products are available.
4. Read, read, and read again!
Be sure to check the labels on your products. Just as you would be aware of the ingredients in food, be aware of the ingredients in your skin, hair, and cleaning products. There are so many amazing natural alternatives on the market now which use no chemicals or toxins that are potentially damaging to the environment, our waterways, and our health.
5. Think longevity and life-cycle
How are your products packaged? Is the packaging necessary in the first place? Does it contain single-use plastics? We have used many things wrapped or contained in plastic and sticky tape. It is great if your products are supplied in cardboard or paper as they can easily be composted at home or recycled. Glass is infinitely recyclable.
Beyond Bamboo is a next-generation sustainability platform transforming the hospitality industry. They are transforming businesses worldwide into “beyond” sustainable ones. Beyond Bamboo is a 100% women-operated and managed business and opened its second global office in Dubai last month to further help companies in UAE and the Middle East be more planet conscious. For further reading and more information head to www.beyondbamboo.life