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Fall is here, and even if the leaves aren't exactly changing in sunny Florida, there's a shift in the air. It's the perfect time to embrace cozy vibes and, more importantly, fall into sustainable swaps! Let's make this season about more than pumpkin spice lattes and Halloween costumes. Let's make it about mindful choices that benefit both our lives and the planet.
From farmers markets overflowing with seasonalย goodies to pumpkin patches begging for a visit, here are 5 easy swaps to transition your lifestyle towards sustainability without even thinking about it!
1. Farmers Markets + Reusables:
Fall means crisp mornings spent wandering through farmers markets, perhaps with a warm coffee or fresh apple cider in hand. This is your chance to ditch the plastic-wrapped produce from the supermarket and embrace local, seasonal goodness.
- The Swap: Bring your own reusable bags and containers. Many vendors will happily fill your containers directly, reducing unnecessary packaging waste. Pro tip: a market tote (like this one!) with 6 pockets makes it easy to stock up and stay organized!ย
- Bonus Points: Strike up a conversation with the farmers! Learn about their growing practices and get inspired to cook with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Want to meet a farmer? Say hi to our friends at Orlando's local farm, Everoak Farm and seeย more about where your foodย comes from and the steps they are takingย beyond sustainable agriculture.
2. Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice (Without the Waste):
That pumpkin spice latte calling your name? Resist the urge to grab a disposable cup!
- The Swap: Invest in a reusable travel mug and bring it with you to your favorite coffee shop. Many places offer discounts for bringing your own cup.
- DIY Delight: Even better, try making your own pumpkin spice latte at home! You'll control the ingredients and avoid any unnecessary waste.
3. Leaf it Better: Compost Those Fall Leaves!
Those crunchy leaves piling up in your yard? They're not just waste; they're gardening gold!
- The Swap: Instead of bagging them up for the landfill, start a compost bin. Leaves are a fantastic source of carbon for your compost, helping to create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
- No Yard? No Problem: Many communities offer composting programs or drop-off locations. Say hi to our friends at O-Town Compost. They do the work and compost our waste so you don't have to!ย
4. Costume Creativity: Thrift and DIY Your Halloween!
Halloween is around the corner, and the temptation to buy a cheap, plastic costume is strong. But let's be honest, those costumes often end up in the landfill after one wear.
- The Swap: Get creative and thrift your costume! Thrift stores are treasure troves of unique clothing and accessories that can be repurposed into amazing costumes.
- DIY Magic: Even better, try making your own costume! You'll have a one-of-a-kind creation and reduce textile waste.
5. Cozy Up with Sustainable Decor:
As the days get shorter and the nights get cooler, we crave that cozy fall atmosphere.ย Candles are a great way to feel fall in the air.ย Yet many candles out there are filled with harmful chemicals that harm us and our loved ones.
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The Swap: Embrace natural plant based candles, free from VOC's and the bad stuff. Diffusers and room sprays are also great options, especially those with pets or children.
๏ปฟPro tip:๏ปฟ๏ปฟ Check out our line of natural home fragrance options to spice up your home without the bad stuff. - Thrift Store Finds: Explore thrift stores for unique and vintage fall decor. You'll give pre-loved items a new life and reduce consumption.
Small Changes, Big Impact
These simple swaps might seem small, but they can make a big difference. By making conscious choices this fall, we can reduce our environmental impact, support local businesses, and create a more sustainable lifestyle. So let's embrace the spirit of the season and fall into sustainability!
At Oh Eco, we're making itย easy to beย eco-friendly. Choose a swap, and get started with same day delivery* today!
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*Available to the Greater Orlando area to eligible zip codes only.ย