Our consumerist ways are slowly killing the planet we love. Deforestation, pollution, global warming are all too real. Gladly, many of us are becoming more aware of the situation and doing our part to make this beautiful planet a better place.

As our world changes, we have to change with it. We can’t let our footprint become a symbol of what we are.

Here are 5 ways you can reduce your environmental footprint:

Buy local: Buying local is a great way to reduce your footprint. Australia is filled with rich resources, great products and amazing companies with values. We have no need to order products from abroad because our beautiful land provides for all of us. Also, it’s a great way of helping out your community, your neighbors, those people who like you, do their best to make our world a better place. 

Buy natural: Nowadays, with the use of pesticides and chemicals, we rarely know what exactly we are consuming. We look at the back of the packages and we see a list of ingredients we can’t even pronounce. Know where your food and goods come from, who produces it, what they use to produce it, and if these companies cause a high environmental impact. 

Find companies who share your values: There are hundreds of companies out there who strive to make the world better. Companies who will walk the extra mile to reduce plastic, reduce toxic waste, are more transparent on what ingredients they use, plant trees or donate to organizations. Good-for-earth companies strive to create a healthier planet through their business practices and production. Their strong commitment to the environment is evident in their products, which are made from plants and other renewable ingredients.

Let your voice be heard: If you know companies who are doing good for the environment, let people know about them. Tell your friends, family and co-workers about the new organic shop by your house, a new product you found that contains no chemicals, or a new company that plants trees around the country, for every product you buy.

Purchase products packaged sustainably: While shopping, one does not realize how much plastic and non-recyclable materials we are buying and throwing away, but this plastic keeps piling up. It’s important to be aware of what we are throwing away as much as what we are consuming. At helpsies, we know the importance of composting and making as little impact to the environment as possible, when growing, producing and packaging our goods. Our products come in sustainable and eco friendly packaging.

Buy only what you need: Why not take a little extra time and think about everything you purchase? You might find that your spending habits don’t match up with what you actually need. By asking yourself these questions before every big purchase, you can make sure that your money is going towards things that are truly valuable to you.