Sustainability is a hot topic - both socially and politically. We only have one earth at our disposal and it is therefore important to protect it and all its beauty. By making small changes to your everyday life, you can do something good to preserve it for future generations.
Sustainability is a hot topic - both socially and politically. We only have one earth at our disposal and it is therefore important to protect it and all its beauty. By making small changes to your everyday life, you can do something good to preserve it for future generations.
Sustainability is an issue that affects everyone. Organizations such as WWF are promoting it with posters and entire school classes are organizing a climate strike. The direction our world will take depends on everyone's behavior. The following sections contain tips for a more sustainable everyday life. There are certainly many, many more ways to do this, but the ones listed are some that anyone can - and perhaps should - implement with ease.
Foodstuffs
Sustainability starts at the breakfast table: Instead of starting with a smoothie made from imported bananas, opt for local fruit and - depending on your preferences - vegetables instead! A short production and transportation chain not only saves huge amounts ofCO2, but is usually also fairer for the farmers. If you do want a banana, make sure that it bears the "Fairtrade" label to ensure that the farmers are guaranteed fair working conditions and that no pesticides are used. A seasonal diet is another additional way of integrating more sustainability into your everyday life. In winter, avoid strawberries from North Africa, tomatoes from Spain or apples from South Africa and try to enjoy local foods and promote their sale. Food waste should be a taboo for everyone, because most expired food can still be used. So don't rely on the date on the label - your nose and eyes usually know better.
Household
Detergents are a real horror for the environment. The chemicals they contain end up in the water cycle and affect not only the animals, but also us; we are poisoning ourselves, so to speak - either because we are not interested in how we can protect the environment with mostly small things or because we are not prepared to spend a little more on sustainable alternatives. "Frosch", "Almawin", "Held" or "ecover essential" are just a few examples of brands that are ecologically responsible. Conserving resources should also be the motto for electricity and water, whereby energy-saving light bulbs can also be used and the water should not be left running for too long when showering and brushing teeth. Waste separation also contributes to a sustainable everyday life by facilitating recycling. Fortunately, there are many services at train stations that support waste separation - but in the end, everyone has to do it themselves... By the way: with a stainless steel bottle from NIKIN, there's less PET to dispose of! ;)
Shopping
The vegetable section in the stores reveals many a sustainable faux pas. Diced peppers or organic (!) cucumbers packed in plastic. Is that really necessary? In my opinion, this plastic packaging - especially for (organic) fruit and vegetables - is completely unnecessary. If you opt for the loose version of peppers and the like, the next question is already waiting for you: How do you transport your groceries home? Fortunately, reusable bags have been available for some time now, replacing plastic bags. You can also avoid the shopping bags offered at the checkout by using the jute bag you have brought with you.
Cosmetics
Advertising thrives on cosmetic products. Women swear by anti-wrinkle creams, eye shadow, mascara, powder, perfume and so on. Men prefer aftershave, deodorants that supposedly smell of cookies and leather (is that really good?), or shower gel after a sports session. But are these products really flawless? Hardly! Such products are not only harmful to the environment, but also to yourself. Although deodorants are offered without aluminum, there are still many on the market that contain the metal and thus contribute to the promotion of cancer. That's bad! Cosmetic products often contain numerous chemicals to make them smell good and look good and thus generate good sales. The long-term consequences of using such products are neglected. Instead, the products continue to be used and advertisements are broadcast showing radiant faces with the latest beauty products.
Consumption
Switzerland is a consumer country. Whether tourists or locals, people buy and buy - every day. People often chase after the latest trends without realizing where the products come from and under what conditions they are manufactured. Whether it's fast fashion, imported food, cosmetics or cleaning products: next time you go shopping, pay attention to where the products come from.
As already mentioned, these are just a few examples that show how anyone can embark on a sustainable path without having to change their entire daily routine. It is usually the small changes that make a big difference - if not at first glance, then certainly in the long term! At NIKIN, we are fully aware that not everyone may be able to implement these changes with the same motivation. This is not a problem, but a challenge that everyone is welcome to take on! A completely sustainable routine cannot happen overnight anyway. Instead, follow your own rhythm and be surprised at how nice it is to give something back to the environment ;)
And don't forget: there are alternatives! Search or ask around and opt for a sustainable everyday life - for the sake of yourself and the environment.
