7 Simple Ways to Build an Eco-Friendly Morning Routine

In today’s world, becoming more eco-conscious is no longer just a trend, it’s a necessity. Every day, small actions contribute to the bigger picture of environmental sustainability, and your morning routine is no exception. From shower time to your commute, there are countless opportunities to make small, intentional changes that not only make your life greener but also help preserve the planet for future generations. Whether you’re completely new to living sustainably or looking for ways to fine-tune your habits, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you create an eco-friendly morning routine that will set the tone for a greener day. Let’s dive into the ways you can modify your morning habits for a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.

1. Shower: Start With an Eco-Friendly Cleanse

Your morning shower is one of the first opportunities to make an eco-friendly impact. The products you use and the water you consume can be modified to reduce your carbon footprint and waste. Here’s how:

• Swap Plastic for Plastic-Free Products
  Traditional shower products often come in single-use plastic bottles, which contribute significantly to plastic waste. A simple switch to solid shampoo and conditioner bars or products packaged in glass or biodegradable containers can make a huge difference. Many brands are now offering refillable options, allowing you to reduce the amount of plastic packaging you use. By purchasing these alternatives, you can ensure that your shower products are sustainable and contribute to a waste-free lifestyle.

• Conserve Water by Turning Off the Tap
  Did you know that a typical shower can use up to 2.5 gallons of water per minute? This means that a 10-minute shower could waste up to 25 gallons of water, depending on the flow rate. One effective way to minimize water consumption is by turning off the water while lathering up. It’s a simple habit to incorporate into your routine, and you’ll be amazed at how much water you can save. Plus, the water temperature will remain just as comfortable, so you won’t even notice the change!

• Choose Eco-Friendly Ingredients
  Be mindful of the ingredients in your products. Harsh chemicals in shower gels and shampoos can end up washing down the drain, impacting local water systems. Opt for products that are free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, and look for certifications like “cruelty-free” and “vegan.” Supporting brands that prioritize natural ingredients and eco-friendly practices will not only benefit your skin but also help protect the environment from harmful chemicals.

2. Skincare: Nourish Your Skin with a good morning routine skincare

Your skincare routine doesn’t just affect your skin—it also affects the planet. Many skincare products come in plastic packaging or contain ingredients that can harm the environment. Let’s explore how to make your skincare routine more eco-friendly

• Get rid of Plastic Toothbrushes for Bamboo
  One of the easiest swaps to make in your skincare routine is your toothbrush. Instead of using a plastic toothbrush, switch to a bamboo toothbrush. Bamboo is a biodegradable material, unlike plastic, which can take hundreds of years to decompose. By choosing a bamboo toothbrush, you’re reducing the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills and oceans.

• Use Vegan, Cruelty-Free Products
  If you’re not already using vegan and cruelty-free skincare products, now is the perfect time to make the switch. Many beauty brands now offer products that are free from animal testing and animal-derived ingredients. Opting for these products means you’re making a more ethical choice that’s in line with your eco-friendly lifestyle. Many vegan skincare products also come in eco-friendly packaging, which further reduces your environmental impact.

• Consider Your Diet for Healthier Skin
  While skincare products can certainly help maintain healthy skin, the food you eat plays a significant role in its appearance. If you struggle with skin issues, it may be worth reconsidering your diet. For instance, cutting out dairy or incorporating more plant-based foods into your meals can help reduce inflammation and improve your skin naturally. Not only does this benefit your skin, but a plant-based diet also has a lower environmental impact than a meat-heavy one.

• Switch to Reusable Cotton Pads
  Disposable cotton pads used for makeup removal or applying toners contribute to unnecessary waste. Instead, switch to reusable cotton pads made from organic cotton or bamboo. These eco-friendly alternatives can be washed and used again, reducing your single-use waste. You’ll not only be helping the environment, but you’ll also save money in the long run.

3. Choosing Your Outfit: Dress Sustainably

The clothes you wear not only reflect your style but also have an impact on the planet. The fashion industry is one of the largest polluters in the world, but you can make conscious choices to reduce your clothing-related environmental footprint:

• Opt for Sustainable Clothing
  The fast fashion industry is known for producing cheap, mass-produced clothing that often ends up in landfills after a short lifespan. To combat this, make the switch to sustainable clothing brands that use eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, hemp, or recycled fabrics. Many brands also prioritize fair labor practices, ensuring that workers are treated ethically. Investing in sustainable clothing may cost a little more upfront, but it’s an investment in both your wardrobe and the planet.

• Embrace Secondhand Shopping
  One of the best ways to reduce your fashion footprint is by shopping secondhand. Thrift stores, online resale platforms, and charity shops offer a treasure trove of high-quality items that are often more affordable than buying new. By purchasing secondhand, you’re giving clothes a second life and reducing the demand for new production. You can even find vintage items that will add a unique flair to your wardrobe.

• Minimize Laundry Waste
  Washing clothes contributes to water and energy usage, and synthetic fabrics can release microplastics into the environment. To reduce your impact, wash your clothes less frequently and use a cold water setting. When you do wash synthetic fabrics, consider using a microfiber filter bag, such as a Guppyfriend bag, to catch microplastics before they enter the water system.

4. Breakfast: Include plant-based food as a part of your morning routine

The food industry is a major contributor to carbon emissions, deforestation, and water waste. By choosing eco-friendly food options for breakfast, you can help reduce your environmental impact while fueling your body for the day ahead:

• Incorporate Plant-Based Ingredients
  One of the simplest ways to make your breakfast more eco-friendly is by opting for plant-based alternatives. You don’t need to become fully vegan to make a difference—just swapping out a few items can have a noticeable impact. For example, choosing plant-based milk like oat milk or almond milk over cow’s milk can significantly reduce your carbon footprint. Additionally, plant-based protein sources like beans, tofu, and avocado are more sustainable than animal-based options.

• Support Local and Organic Produce
  Another way to make your breakfast more sustainable is by choosing locally grown, organic produce. Organic farming practices are better for the environment because they avoid harmful pesticides and use less energy than conventional farming. Supporting local farmers also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food long distances.

• Reduce Food Waste
  A lot of food ends up in the trash, especially when we don’t plan our meals properly. Start the day by being mindful of portion sizes and ensuring that you use ingredients that might otherwise go to waste. If you have leftover fruits or vegetables, incorporate them into your breakfast smoothies or bowls. By planning your meals and using leftovers creatively, you can reduce food waste and make your breakfast even more eco-friendly.

5. Coffee on the Go: Be more Sustainable

Many people rely on coffee to start their day, but coffee consumption comes with its own set of environmental challenges. From disposable cups to wasteful packaging, here’s how you can make your coffee routine more sustainable:

• Use a Reusable Coffee Cup
  In the UK alone, 2.5 billion disposable coffee cups are used every year, and less than 1% of them are recycled. To help reduce this waste, invest in a reusable coffee cup that you can take with you on the go. Many coffee shops even offer discounts to customers who bring their own reusable cups, making it both a sustainable and cost-effective choice.

• Choose Ethically Sourced Coffee
  The coffee industry can be harmful to both the environment and the workers who produce it. When purchasing coffee, look for brands that prioritize sustainability and fair trade practices. Ethically sourced coffee ensures that the farmers are paid a fair wage, and that environmentally friendly farming practices are used to protect the land and ecosystems where coffee is grown.

• Opt for Milk Alternatives
  Another way to make your morning coffee more eco-friendly is by choosing plant-based milk alternatives like oat milk, soy milk, or almond milk. These options tend to have a lower carbon footprint than dairy milk, and they’re also suitable for people who are lactose intolerant or vegan. The next time you order your morning coffee, ask for a milk alternative and enjoy a delicious and eco-friendly beverage.

6. Unplug Your Home: Conserve Energy

Energy consumption can often go unnoticed in our daily routines, but there are simple actions you can take to lower your household’s energy usage:

• Unplug Devices When Not in Use
  Many electronic devices continue to consume energy even when they’re turned off, a phenomenon known as “standby power” or “phantom power.” To combat this, make it a habit to unplug devices like phone chargers, lamps, and kitchen appliances when they’re not in use. This simple step can help conserve energy and lower your electricity bill over time.

• Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
  When purchasing new appliances, consider opting for energy-efficient models that consume less power. Look for products with an ENERGY STAR label or similar certifications, which indicate that they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. Using energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce your home’s carbon footprint while saving your money.

7. Save Fuel: Opt for a Green Commute

The way you commute to work or school can have a huge impact on your carbon footprint. Transportation is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, but there are plenty of eco-friendly commuting options to explore.

• Walk or Cycle: If possible, walk or bike to work. Not only does this reduce your carbon emissions, but it’s also great for your health and well-being. Starting your day with a walk or a bike ride is a peaceful way to clear your mind and set a positive tone for the day. 

• Use Public Transport: If walking or cycling isn’t an option, consider taking public transportation. Buses, trains, and subways are much more energy-efficient than driving a car. They help reduce the number of vehicles on the road, lowering overall pollution.

• Carpool or Share Rides: If you must drive, consider carpool or sharing a ride with others. This can help reduce the number of cars on the road, decreasing congestion and lowering emissions. Carpooling also gives you the opportunity to socialize and make your commute more enjoyable.

• Drive Efficiently: If driving is necessary, try to drive more efficiently. This includes avoiding rapid acceleration, maintaining a steady speed, and keeping your tires properly inflated. Regular maintenance of your vehicle, such as oil changes and air filter replacements, can also improve fuel efficiency.

Takeaway

Incorporating eco-friendly habits into your morning routine may seem like a small effort, but when combined, these changes can significantly reduce your environmental footprint. From choosing sustainable personal care products to embracing plant-based breakfasts, every choice counts. The key is to start small and make gradual, meaningful changes that align with your values. Whether it’s reducing water waste in the shower, switching to eco-friendly skincare, or opting for ethical fashion, every step you take brings you closer to living a more sustainable and conscious lifestyle. Remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect all at once—each action, no matter how minor, contributes to a greener planet. So, start today, and see how you can create an eco-friendly morning routine that sets a positive tone for the rest of your day!

Enhance Your Routine with a Forestrails Clay Water Bottle

To elevate your eco-friendly morning routine further, consider incorporating a Forestrails Clay Water Bottle into your daily habits. Not only is it a sustainable alternative to plastic bottles, but it also provides numerous health benefits. Drinking water from a clay bottle can help enhance digestion by promoting the natural alkaline properties of the water, which is crucial for balancing your body’s pH levels. This simple change can also support your overall health by helping to ward off brain fog and keep your mind clear and focused throughout the day. The importance of maintaining good gut health cannot be overstated, and using a clay bottle as part of your morning routine is a great way to start the day on the right note. Visit Forestrails.com for more information.