Small steps to reduce my big (carbon) footprint

Although the pandemic may be taking centre stage at the moment, global temperatures are still rising, and the level of carbon emissions are still dangerously high. Climate change is the single greatest challenge the world faces today (excluding that virus). However, all is not lost. Even as a 'financially-restricted' college student, i.e. broke, I have been able to implement small changes to help reduce my impact on the climate, while reaping some personal benefits along the way!

Sustainable Fashion

As a fashion and bargain lover, the high street has always been my haven. Selling the latest trends at low prices, brands such as Zara, H&M and online shops including Boohoo and Nasty Gal have provided me with my fashion fix. However, in recent times, I've become aware of the detrimental effects the fast fashion industry is having on the environment. Fast fashion is becoming one of the biggest contributors to our Co2 emissions. Watch this quick 5-minute video to learn the full extent of this destructive industry:

Credit: Kristen Leo Youtube

But all is not lost! There are many ways to stay fashion-forward without hurting the planet (and your pocket). When I began to switch to sustainable shopping, the first place I went to was my local charity shop. It is the easiest and probably most accessible way to shop sustainably. You can find some great gems at unbelievable prices! I recently found a Ralph Lauren polo shirt, tags still on, for €7!

Personally, vintage shops are my go-to. These are a step up from charity shops with the clothing being slightly more expensive, but the quality speaks for itself. Plus, vintage shops are great for rare one-off pieces. Some of my favourites include Spice Vintage, Vinyl Vintage Clothing, Whack Vintage and Nine Crows Vintage.

Another alternative is Depop. This is an online social shopping platform where users can buy and sell clothing. Instead of dumping your clothes, you can give them a new lease of life while getting some cash! Depop is also a great way slowly move from your usual brands to sustainable choices as you can find secondhand 'fast-fashion' pieces, and they're usually at lower prices!

Veganism

Another step I have taken towards a more eco-friendly life is reducing my meat consumption. I love meat. I was reared on Sunday roasts, bacon and cabbage and the full Irish Breakfast. However, the impact of a meat/animal product-heavy diet on the environment is worryingly dangerous.

To combat this, I have reduced my meat consumption. Turning vegan seemed quite daunting, so I have started by slowly reducing the amount of meat I eat. There are so many veggie alternatives nowadays including Quorn mince, Linda McCartney sausages and veggie McNuggets! I now use

Credit: CulinarySchools.org

surprisingly nice almond milk (maybe even nicer than cows milk) in my coffee and breakfast. I would recommend doing your research before attempting any diet change to ensure that you are still getting all the nutrients you should. Personally, I don't feel I've sacrificed much. I like to think of this new diet as a lifestyle and not a replacement for my old one, but rather an improved version! I can also confirm that I feel much more energetic, my skin is better, and I'm sleeping much better. It's a win-win.

Saving the world can seem daunting, but its simple little steps like these that will all add up to help us all reduce our collective carbon footprint. So why not take your first step today?