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Thinking about how to make changes to live an eco-friendly life can become overwhelming. Researching sustainable options to replace everyday habits and products can become confusing. There’s a lot of information out there and some of it is contradictory. No need to give up on doing better for yourself and the planet, we’ve put together a list of our favorite books to help guide you as you help to make the world a better place one small change at a time.
What does Eco-Friendly mean?
First, let’s take a minute to discuss what eco-friendly means. Simply put, it's something not harmful to the environment or that helps the environment in some way. Everything from production and manufacturing processes to the packaging and recyclability of a product are opportunities for reducing harmful emissions, chemicals, and other toxins into the planet.
What began as a grassroots movement of environmental consciousness in the late 1970s, has grown into big business producing big profits. Many companies have latched on to the sustainable living concept and are now producing products that can help reduce carbon footprint. However, not all eco-friendly products are equal and there are currently no regulations on the term “eco-friendly” which can lead to much confusion for the unsuspecting consumer with the desire to do better.
Why should I care anyway?
It seems as though there's a new study or shocking revelation with bleak outlooks on the future of our planet coming out every day. And that’s probably because it likely is every day. Between social media, national and local news, and global events, we're constantly being educated with alarming statistics and dire warnings about the havoc of climate change.
It can be frightening to think about. It is frightening, friends. As a mother to two young daughters, it's very frightening to think about what kind of world will not only be left for them, but left for generations of children to come. Toxins have been found in just about every aspect of our daily lives. From the emissions from our vehicles to food, to beauty products and fashion, we continue to poison ourselves and our environment with little regard to what it will mean in the long run. The poor decisions of one lead to poor consequences for many.
How do I make a difference?
The first step to begin making a difference is to become educated in the best sustainability practices and the easiest way to do that is through reliable, credible resources. Being aware of the problem is simply not enough. Making small, meaningful changes creates a snowball effect for you and the world around you. The time to make those changes is now. Start with this list and continue learning and making positive changes.
Check out TEN Simple, Eco-Friendly Changes to Make Now! for products we recommend.
1. No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference by Greta Thunberg
If you need inspiration about someone who started with one small change, look no further than Greta Thunberg. A simple decision to not go to school one day turned into a global movement led by a young teenager. Her speeches have commanded the attention of national and global leaders of the world on the dangers of climate change.
2. The Story of Stuff: The Impact of Overconsumption on the Planet, Our Communities, and Our Health- And How We Can Make It Better by Annie Leonard
Widely used as an educational tool in schools, The Story of Stuff brings to the forefront the ever-increasing problem of pollution by way of over-consumption and throwaway mentality, and its devasting consequences on the environment. Praised for its direct exploration of how extraction, production, distribution, consumption, and disposal come full circle in destroying our planet.
3. Give a Sh*t: Do Good. Live Better. Save the Planet. By Ashlee Piper
Part cookbook, part organizational guide, this book is full of fun personality, and offers a helping hand in getting your sh... um…act together when it comes to living a sustainable, eco-friendly life. From cruelty-free beauty products and eco-friendly fashion, to easy tips to living more sustainably at home, this is a great book to get you started on your journey!
4. 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste by Kathryn Kellogg
A realistic guide for anyone who wants to make better choices and reduce waste. This book offers everything from do-it-yourself beauty recipes to advice for responsible consumption at home and on the go. Kellogg gives concise key steps to make transitioning to a zero-waste lifestyle approachable and doable.
5. The Third Plate: Field Notes on the Future of Food by Dan Barber
Trained at the French Culinary Institute and a graduate with a B.A. in English from Tufts University, this Michelin star chef, believes there can be a future where good farming and good food can create a delicious and sustainable connection. This book is about food and its relationship to ecology, and how the average Joe can eat healthier and save the planet at the same time.
What’s the bottom line?
Living a life that helps the planet isn’t hard and everyone is capable of making small, meaningful changes. There are thousands of books available on sustainability and how to live an eco-friendly life. Narrowing down to our five favorites was extremely difficult and is not intended to be an exhaustive list. I encourage you to continue reading and learning more about making the world a better place!
5 Books on How to Live an Eco-Friendly Life
No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference by Greta Thunberg
The Story of Stuff: The Impact of Overconsumption on the Planet, Our Communities, and Our Health- And How We Can Make It Better by Annie Leonard
Give a Sh*t: Do Good. Live Better. Save the Planet. By Ashlee Piper
101 Ways to Go Zero Waste by Kathryn Kellogg
The Third Plate: Field Notes on the Future of Food by Dan Barber
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