How are my eco-conscious yearly goals going on so far?

2022 is a weird year in many ways. COVID is still out there, despite our attempt to resume pre-pandemic life. There’s a war in Europe. And the temperatures are higher than ever this Summer. Who said global warming didn’t exist?

At the beginning of the year, I set some eco-conscious goals for 2022. As July is almost coming to an end, here’s how I’ve been doing so far:

Spend less time on social media

Despite being one of my most challenging goals for this year, I’ve made huge progress:

• I no longer use Facebook or Twitter, and I’ve deleted both apps from my devices.

• My Instagram usage is limited to 30 minutes a day. I have to say that this has been the most challenging part so far, as I noticed that Instagram is more engaging than I’d like it to be. And I need to go back to it several times a day, especially when I feel bored or need a break.

• It’s been a while since the last time I’ve used Pinterest.

• I am thankful I haven’t installed TikTok during a lockdown or in the following months. So I don’t have to struggle with any possible addiction.

• On the other hand, I use LinkedIn a few times a week for professional reasons.

Regarding The Sustainablist social media profiles, I haven’t posted in months. I know these are an essential part of any marketing strategy, but I am just fed up with social media.

In case you don’t know, I’ve worked as a social media professional for a decade. And after so many hours of my life creating content and managing these, I no longer have the energy (nor the mindset) to keep doing it. Plus, according to the analytics, it wasn’t worth the effort.

I might consider resuming my regular posts on The Sustainablist’s Pinterest profile, as this network is quite positive and inspirational. And an important ally when it comes to driving traffic to the blog.

Keep reducing my transportation footprint

I am still going strong. And still no driver’s license. I’ve been walking a lot lately, and I always take the bus or the subway whenever something is not within walking distance (or when I have little time).

An aloe vera gel for tired legs has been a life-saver when I put in more km than I am used to.

I haven’t used the bike these days, as it’s scorching outside (35ºC by 10 pm). I know, it’s insane!

I plan to keep up this way. And to keep using public transportation when I have to go to the office, even though it means a long commute (over 4 hours) every day.

Eat less meat

Another accomplished goal! This year, I’ve focused on other protein sources, like eggs and plant-based products (beans, hummus, Heura).

Besides being easier to digest, these are also incredibly versatile in cooking and playing with spices.

Until the end of the year, I’d like to do a little more digging on vegan recipes and take my meals to the next level.

Order fewer take-out meals

Checked! Besides the environmental impact of ordering a take-out meal (transportation, containers, waste), I’ve also noticed that such a habit had an important influence on my bank account or around my waist.

Earlier this year, I set the limit to one order per month. Only when I especially wanted to treat myself or when my fridge was empty, and I had to work extra hours. It was incredible to see the positive impact on my trash bin and bank account once I set up this practice.

But, since I was diagnosed with PCOS, my number of take-out orders is now NONE. Because I need to pay special attention to what I eat and the ingredients used. Processed foods and added sugar negatively impact my condition and overall wellness.

After successfully reducing my number of take-out orders, I’ve decided to adopt this practice to my online shopping habits.

I’ve been being more conscious and making fewer orders online. Opting for buying whatever I need around town, even if that means spending some extra euros, and leaving online shopping when I have no other option.

The reduction has been so drastic that I am considering quitting my Amazon Prime membership next year.

Reduce the pile in my recycling bin

Another goal that I’ve been accomplishing this year. How? Two things:

• By purchasing “naked” products or in bulk. 

• By buying a larger package. This allows me to use a single product for a more extended period (reducing the number of containers used, waste, carbon footprint, and saving money).

I’ve recently purchased a coffee grinder. I am a big coffee fan. This new purchase is the perfect addition to my reusable coffee capsules. This way, I can still have my cup of java freshly brewed while reducing its environmental impact. 

Bonus Track: What about my paper usage?

I am still going strong! Even though I haven’t been using my iPad mini to take notes lately, I’ve used recycled paper or stone paper instead.

I’ve also been making the most of pre-used paper that I no longer need to save (like medical prescriptions) and still have some space.

These are particularly convenient for taking notes at work or doing copywriting exercises.

In case you don’t know, I am currently a digital copywriter. So, when I struggle with a line, a pen and a sheet of paper always help me break writer’s block.

What about you? Have you reduced your environmental impact besides the challenges and setbacks you’ve been through this year?