Learn About Sustainability
Empower yourself with knowledge to make more eco-conscious decisions.
Understanding Carbon Footprint
Your carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide and methane) generated by your actions. For products, this includes emissions from raw material extraction, manufacturing, transportation, use, and disposal.
Quick Tips:
- Choose products made with renewable energy.
- Opt for locally sourced items to reduce transportation emissions.
- Consider the energy efficiency of appliances during their use phase.
Water Usage & Conservation
Water usage, or water footprint, refers to the amount of fresh water utilized in the production or supply of goods and services. This includes direct water use (e.g., in manufacturing) and indirect water use (e.g., for growing raw materials like cotton).
Quick Tips:
- Support products made from less water-intensive materials (e.g., linen over conventional cotton).
- Be mindful of products from water-scarce regions.
- Repair leaks at home to conserve water directly.
Sustainable Materials & Recyclability
Sustainable materials are sourced or produced in a way that minimizes environmental harm. This includes recycled content, renewable resources (like bamboo or cork), and materials that are biodegradable or easily recyclable at the end of their life.
Quick Tips:
- Look for products made from recycled materials (e.g., rPET, recycled metal).
- Choose items designed for durability and repairability.
- Check local recycling guidelines to ensure proper disposal.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency means using less energy to perform the same task. For products, this can relate to the energy used during manufacturing or the energy consumed during the product's lifespan (e.g., appliances, electronics).
Quick Tips:
- Look for energy rating labels like Energy Star.
- Unplug electronics when not in use to avoid 'phantom load'.
- Choose LED lighting over incandescent bulbs.