Knowing that collectively we create 2.12 billion tons of waste per year, which directly contributes to climate change, among other issues, it’s safe to say that celebrating products that last you longer is truly important. Therefore, today, we would like to share some of the exemplary items shared on the subreddit r/BuyItForLife that these people continue to use even a decade or more later. Yes, it might look like you are being transported back in time, but trends do circulate, and some of the things are looking pretty trendy to me! Well, if our priority of convenience and instant gratification comes above durability and longevity, this might seem like a win-win; however, this outlook has some serious issues in the long term. First of all, Kathryn shared what inspired her to start focusing on sustainability and longevity within her blogging journey. “I started practicing many of these habits out of financial necessity and for health reasons. I started reducing my exposure to endocrine disruptors which are found in a lot of products we come into daily contact with.” It all clicked for me when I moved to California that the changes I was making to my personal health weren’t only better for me, they were also better for the planet. I started my blog goingzerowaste.com because I wanted people to know they could save money, be healthier, and be more eco-friendly.” “We live in a linear economy and our earth has limited resources. Basically, we take resources from the earth, we manufacture them into products, and then we throw them into a giant hole in the ground. Living this way is unsustainable and eventually, we will run out of resources. Companies during the 1980s started to realize to drive more growth, products needed to be very difficult to repair and that they need to break quicker. The quicker you can break a product the quicker you can make a new sale. This is called planned obsolescence, which is instilling in the buyer a desire to own something a little newer, better, and sooner than is necessary.” We can combat this trend by switching over to a more circular economy. The circular economy reflects nature, where there is no trash or waste. Everything plays a vital role in the system. We can encourage a more circular economy by borrowing and lending our items more, instead of buying new; repairing our items when they break, or hiring someone else to do it, like a cobbler or tailor; taking better care of the items we already have; supporting libraries, community gardens, and tool libraries; composting our food scraps.” “I think the brand Plaine Products does a great job of showcasing a circular economy in motion. They sell sustainable hair and skincare products in aluminum containers that you can ship back to them when empty to be reused. They will then send you refills in return. There’s absolutely no waste, and there’s a subscription service that ensures you’re not overconsuming. Also, their shipping packaging is plastic-free. Also, Sabai Design is another great example: They’re a furniture company that not only uses upcycled materials in their products but promotes repairability.” And my own company Kayaness is focused on sustainable design in our products. We make reusable period underwear with matching loungewear. From sourcing thicker and heavy-duty materials, manufacture in house to have the greatest control over quality to produce a garment that should stand the test of a lot of use and washes.” A good habit to develop is to ask yourself if you plan on using an item more than once. If the answer is no, try to see if you can borrow the item from someone you know who already has one! Also, make sure you love the item you’re going to buy, as you’ll be more inclined to take care of it. Stepping away from a purchase and waiting at least 30 days is a good test to see how much it means to you: If you’re not still thinking about it after 30 days, you definitely don’t need it.” Kathryn wrote: “When you buy something for life, you are saving money in the long run. Sure, it may cost more up front. But think about how much it would cost you to pay for a new couch every five years as opposed to just once. On top of this, you will be paying for a higher-quality item, which probably means everyone involved in making said item will get paid a living wage. You should always check for third-party certifications, to ensure the manufacturers can back up their claims.” Instead, focusing on your relationships and forming meaningful connections will bring deeper happiness that lasts. Consider becoming more involved in your local community. Get to know your neighbors, attend potlucks, visit your local farmers’ market, host cleanups, attend workshops. When we foster a sense of community, we feel connected and happier, all while working towards a more circular economy.” Follow Bored Panda on Google News! Follow us on Flipboard.com/@boredpanda! Please use high-res photos without watermarks Ooops! Your image is too large, maximum file size is 8 MB.
