In a society that places growing importance on sustainability and environmental accountability, the search for meaningful sustainable swaps has become more important than ever.
The new year is a great opportunity for many of us to make some important and meaningful changes to our lives and habits.
It could be giving up smoking or exercising more. It’s also a great time to start thinking about our individual environmental impact by looking at our own carbon footprint, and what we can do to reduce it. More and more of us are becoming aware of using and making simple swaps to a more sustainable lifestyle. The amount of plastic packaging that plagues our environment is eye-watering and we have seen an amazing growth of eco-friendly products and reusable products available in a bid to eliminate single-use plastics and the plastic pollution it causes.
Consumers want more of these products and companies are listening.
Some great examples are; reusable water bottle, menstrual cup, beeswax wrap, non-paper paper towels, period pants, organic cotton, reusable shopping bags that actually last, safety razors to name a few.
To make your life easier, I’ve done the leg work in this blog post (so you don’t have to) and found the best eco swaps you can make in 2024, helping you to find eco-friendly alternatives to reduce your plastic waste so you can start making sustainable swaps today!
Evolve Organic Beauty
BLUE VELVET CERAMIDE SERUM – An organic ceramide serum that is designed to nourish and repair the barrier layer of dry and sensitive skin to help it relax and calm down. It contains skin barrier strengthening Ceramides alongside plant-based Squalane oil to naturally hydrate and boost skin’s glow whilst Camellia Oil and Blue Tansy restore and nourish the skin to bring relief and calm inflammation and redness.
All you need to do is apply 3-4 drops of the serum onto clean skin, gently pat into face and neck.You can use this serum as part of a daily routine and follow with your preferred moisturiser.
Good news! This product is certified COSMOS Natural, vegan and cruelty free. Certification and sustainability claims are independently verified by Provenance
What I thought – I have to say, I’ve fallen in love with this product. It’s really gentle on my skin and leaves my skin really soft.
One Good Thing
Wrapper Free Snack and protein Bars with a 100% edible coating.
Get ready to embrace a whole new world of sustainable snacking with One Good Thing (OGT) – the world’s first range of completely wrapperless snack and protein bars. Made from nothing but delicious, natural ingredients, the groundbreaking new snackable squares are coated with a completely edible, natural beeswax film, that protects the tasty contents inside. They can be rinsed or wiped and eaten in exactly the same way you would an apple – meaning no more plastic waste!
Made using only raw cold-pressed, low carbon ingredients, OGT bars are the best way to fuel busy days on the go whilst minimising our impact on the planet. There are seven different flavours of Snack bars available, including Mango & Passionfruit, Strawberries & Cream, Rhubarb & Custard and Cherry Bakewell, and a further seven different varieties of Protein bar, including combinations like Apple & Cinnamon, Sticky Ginger, Berry Burst and Butterscotch.
What I thought – This is such a good idea, they were a massive hit in this household. Really tasty, filling and no chance of food waste!
Power of Pants
Focused on creating reliable, comfortable and leakproof period underwear while working hard on tackling the issue of single-use plastic waste as well as period poverty.
‘In an ideal world we would be free to make choices for our bodies and wouldn’t have to consider the consequences of our actions and how it might affect the environment. Everything we bought would be kind and gentle to the earth. We wouldn’t be limited to choices that don’t fit our bodies comfortably. We wouldn’t have to worry if we could afford the right solution for us. We may even hope that our choices impacted others in a positive way. Power of Pants is more than just a collection of very delicious knickers, it exists to nurture our environment, our bodies and our community. POP is freedom, a way of life – a ball that won’t stop rolling.‘
This is a great way to ditch single-use products and could save you money in the long run.
What I thought – I ditched pads and tampons a while ago and haven’t looked back. I’ve saved so much money doing this. This is a great sustainable solution that can have a positive impact.
VASO
VASO offers reusable insulated stainless steel coffee tumblers that are ideal for enjoying a variety of hot or cold beverages, from coffee and tea to cocktails and soft drinks. Crafted from 18/8 food-grade stainless steel, each tumbler features a double-walled, vacuum-insulated layer to preserve the temperature of your drinks. The outer powder-coated finish not only adds grip but also prevents condensation on the cup’s exterior. The tumblers come with a new slide-close, press-fit lid design, featuring a silicone O-ring for a secure seal and a sliding mouthpiece that covers the liquid flow hole when closed. Cleaning is easy – just wash the tumbler with warm soapy water and rinse. This is a great alternative to coffee cups.
What I thought – Although this is great for when you’re out and about, I use it at home during the day. As it keeps my drink hot for longer, it’s saved me from throwing away cold cups of tea away. A great sustainable living swap; it’s time to ditch the plastic bottles.
Rehome
If you’re looking to replace your kitchen in 2024, this is a more sustainable option.
Rehome, the Kitchen, Bedroom, and Bathroom outlet is the UK’s largest BCorp certified retailer that specialises in the sale of quality sourced pre-loved, ex-display and end of line kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and appliances (including fridge, freezer, washing machine, and hob) , many of which are from leading designer brands. Founded in 2015 by Helen and Phil Lord, Rehome.co.uk is committed to providing a more sustainable and affordable way to renovate your home. They believe that interiors deserve to be re-loved, and that quality builds and designs can be sold and reused. By encouraging consumers to rethink how they replace home improvement products, Rehome.co.uk is not only providing a meaningful renovating solution but is also helping homeowners to offset their carbon footprint along the way.
All products sold through Rehome.co.uk are subject to stringent quality certification and give an honest reflection of condition to help buyers make an informed choice. The company is based in Cheshire and offers a nationwide collection and delivery service alongside a Which? Trusted Trader dismantling service for consumers and retailers who are looking to sell via the site. In 2022 the Company was recognised by The Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development and most recently in 2023 was awarded the accolade of Marie Claire Sustainable Home and Lifestyle Retailer of the year.
What I thought – I genuinely didn’t realise such a business existed, this is a great option of anyone who is looking to upgrade their kitchen in a sustainable way.
Beauty Naturals
If you’re looking for zero waste swaps and finally ditch plastic completely, you’re going to love these!
Protective Lip Balm, which comes in a biodegradable cardboard pot, and the Pure Deodorant, which is presented as a solid stick in a push up, plastic free, biodegradable, bps free, cardboard tube.
Pure Deodorant – This exclusive formulation contains natural vegetable enzymes to effectively neutralise odours and will keep you fresh all day long. With the subtle, fresh fragrance of Camomile this mild deodorant will not block pores or cause irritation. Vegan.
Protective Lip Balm – This rich, solid cream helps repair dry, chapped lips and prevents moisture loss. Both moisturising and soothing, it is ideal for outdoor protection from windburn and exposure to the elements.
One of best sustainable alternatives for everyday products while ditching the plastic packaging. These small changes are a great step in the right direction. Check out Beauty Naturals website for shampoo bars too.
What I thought – The scent for the lip balm is really gentle and soothing. The little pot fits perfectly in my coat pocket. The deodorant fragrance is not overpowering like other brands, it’s very easy to use. I love that these products have no plastic packaging.
Who Gives A Crap
If you’re looking for toilet paper that is kinder to the environment, keep reading for this sustainable swap…
All of their products are plastic free, made with sustainable materials and delivered to nearly 40 countries.. Available in Double length rolls; 400 sheets, Super comfy 3 ply, Cheaper cost per sheet than leading brands, 100% recycled paper (no virgin trees used!), and Biodegradable and plays well with most septic tanks. The best part? Carbon neutral shipping.
Truthbrush
When I found out that all the plastic toothbrushes I’ve ever used is probably sitting in landfill somewhere, I decided to do something about that and made the switch the Truthbrush.
Truthbrush is the only B-Corp certified oral care company in the UK, meeting the highest standards of social and environmental impact. I tried a few other brands but liked this one and only ever use their toothbrushes. Some of my friends and family have made the switch too. They are sent in recyclable packaging, which is perfect for plastic-free products and eliminates unnecessary waste.
This is one of my favourite sustainable swaps. All their products are vegan and their shipping is carbon neutral. You can even purchase a holder for any travel lovers out there.
Rachel Fearnley Designs
Rachel Fearnley Designs are a sustainable small business that handmake gifts, wedding favours and home accessories. Their motto is “gifts that don’t cost the earth” as they are both affordable and eco-friendly, making a sustainable lifestyle more accessible. All of their products are made out of 100% GOTS certified cotton, linen and wool.
These Lavender Scented Pyramids are a delicate home accessory that are made out of 100% GOTS certified cotton and are completely customisable. They can choose any print and any colour. Whilst they look delicate and luxurious they also have numerous health benefits. The home grown lavender used in the pyramids can severely reduce stress levels and anxiety, encourage a great night’s sleep, perfect for soothing headaches and migraines etc. Style in any room such as the kitchen, bathroom or hang in your bedroom. They could act as a great alternative to candles and read diffusers.
Check out their website for other handmade gifts; wedding favours, ring cushions, fabric reusable bags, and fabric bookmarks.
What I thought – These are beautifully made and smell gorgeous. I’ve got mine on my bedside cabinet because I don’t tend to sleep well. The home-grown lavender is calming.
Bottle Up
This is a revolutionary sustainable, plant-based, BPA-free, pre-filled reusable water bottle. Made in Wolverhampton, Bottle Up turns renewable sugar cane sourced from Brazilian grasslands into durable, sustainable bottles which are then filled with pure British spring water from Elmhurst in Staffordshire for minimum carbon impact.
Bottle Up’s reusable bottles are available to buy in Morrisons, Ocado, WH Smith, The Coop, BP, Wholefoods, and Amazon RRP £3.
What I thought – I genuinely had no idea these existed, it’s such a good idea and available from so many places. The water tastes good and bottles come in a variety of colours.
There you have it, the best eco swaps to make in 2024!
