Massive disclaimer on this post: It’s OKAY to not use this time to “be productive” or “make the most of it.” These are challenging times. You’re allowed to be upset. (I certainly am.) It’s okay if all you manage is to get through the day.
That being said, I’ve received a lot of questions recently about how we can continue (or start!) our eco-friendly lifestyles during COVID-19. Of course, we can’t go out with our Zero Waste kits or refuse as much single-use plastic. It’s disheartening for sure; however, think of what else you’re doing anyway! You’re probably already driving less, making your tea/coffee at home, and so on. So if you are wondering what else you can do during this time, this list is for you.
- Do a waste audit
- Donate to a nonprofit organization
- Mend your clothes
- Learn how to knit, crochet, or sew
- Write a letter to your local newspaper
- Write an email to your politicians
- Sign online petitions
- Buy from a local small business
- Buy a gift card for later from a local small business
- Cook from scratch
- Bake bread
- Compost at home
- Eat plant-based more often
- Use wax wraps to keep food fresh
- When food shopping, try to choose recyclable packaging
- Reduce food waste
- Learn how to cook with food scraps (such as veggie broth)
- Learn at-home fermentation
- Read up on your local recycling rules
- Cancel unnecessary mail
- Opt out of unwanted promotional emails
- Regrow your veggies (like green onions and celery)
- Grow sprouts or microgreens
- Grow a garden
- Spend time in nature whenever possible
- Capture rainwater to water your plants or garden
- Wash your clothes in cold water
- Air-dry your laundry when possible
- Make some DIY cleaning products
- Make some DIY skincare products
- Use handkerchiefs instead of tissues
- Use rags instead of paper towels
- Use reusable cloth rounds instead of cotton balls
- Use cloth napkins instead of paper
- Read environmental books
- Diversify your Instagram feed
- Join a digital climate strike
- Join an online environmental group
- Keep up-to-date with local politics
- Borrow e-books/audiobooks from your local library
- Have a Zero Waste period
- Try out a safety razor
- Use shampoo and conditioner bars
- Order TP online that does’t come in plastic packaging
- Help spread the word!
Leah Payne 
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