In a world filled with constant consumption, it’s so essential that we take a minute to pause and consider the impact of our choices. We hold the power and responsibility to make conscious decisions, opting for products free from plastic and supporting brands committed to sustainable practices. Earth Day is always a timely reminder that every one of us can take small steps toward preserving our planet. With accessible and cost-effective options available, there’s no excuse not to make mindful decisions. For those seeking a starting point, here are 8 eco-friendly swaps to consider for Earth Day and beyond!
1. by Humankind
With a mission to reduce our single-use plastic footprint, by Humankind eliminates more than 90% of the waste in our morning routine alone. Their refillable products are 100% biodegradable or come in tablet form, and are made with natural ingredients.
2. Thousand Fell sneakers
The next time you need new kicks, consider checking out Thousand Fell for a step towards a greener future. These eco-friendly shoes are made from vegan bio leather, with structural details made from coconut, sugarcane, and palm. Durable and made to last, they feature stain-proof and water-resistant coating. Along with an aloe vera coated liner, they come with recycled PET flat laces and a recycled cushioned insole for all the comfort you could need. When it’s time to retire your shoes, Thousand Fell will take back its products to recycle and compost at the end of its life. Any reusable materials are reintegrated back into their supply chain or upcycled into new projects.
3. Baggu x Keith Haring
Reusable bags are the easiest swap you can make! Even though plastic bags have been banned in many states and cities, I still prefer to bring my own than pay for the paper ones at the store. I know we’re all guilty of occasionally forgetting to bring them, but my little hack is to always have cute ones on hand so you’ll want to use them. This collaboration has the added element of being bright and colorful, so place them by the door and you definitely won’t miss it.
4. Plantish Pop Up Sponges
This is news to me, but did you know you’re supposed to replace your kitchen sponge once a week? (Google it, I’ll wait!) Once a week! That’s a lot of sponges and a lot of waste. Luckily, Plantish’s sponges are plant-based, plastic-free, and compostable! Made of 100% vegetable cellulose, these sponges can be boiled in water to kill bacteria and safely be reused. When it’s time to dispose of it, all you have to do is cut it up into small pieces and compost it!
5. uni.
By creating a closed-loop model for body care products, Uni aims to reduce the need for single-use plastics. With refillable bottles made from 100% recycled aluminum and a top dispenser designed to be used repeatedly, customers can send back their empty bottles to be washed, refilled, and used over and over again. In addition to their innovative packaging, Uni products are eco-friendly, formulated with sustainably sourced marine actives and native Australian plants. Perfect for your whole household, they offer a range of products, including hand soap, hair care, and body care in unisex scents!
6. Àplat covers
While reusable beeswax wrap is a great alternative to plastic wrap, this may be even better. Àplat’s bowl and pan covers are made from 100% GOT-certified organic cotton and designed without hardware or plastics to withstand everyday use and repeated washes. With a zero-waste design principle deeply engrained into the brand, every pattern is carefully engineered to reduce waste and all production offcuts are used to create upcycled products. Since everything is made in small batches to avoid overproduction, only the small bowl covers are currently available (and 50% off!).
7. Humanscale Smart Ocean Chair
A task chair that does a whole lot of good for your body and the planet – the Smart Ocean Chair is made from nearly 2 lbs. of reclaimed fishing nets! The first of its kind, these chairs not only combat ocean plastic pollution but also set a new standard in eco-friendly manufacturing. Going beyond sustainability, they’re also Living Product Certified, meaning they actively benefit the planet with each creation!
8. Öko Living Yoga Mat
Infused with 20 skin-soothing herbs and crafted from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, this yoga mat offers unparalleled support, balance, and ethical craftsmanship. Hand-loomed in India with care, each vibrant hue of the 7 Chakra colors is dyed with Ayurvedic medicinal plants, aligning your energy and enhancing your practice.
This post contains affiliate links, so if you make a purchase from an affiliate link, we earn a commission. Thanks for supporting Design Milk!
