Reduce if you can't eliminate

There are frequently very good reasons why we can’t or do not wish to eliminate an activity or product that works against our attempts to live sustainably.   However, sometimes we can reduce the amount of that product or activity that we participate in.  Reducing harmful impacts is one way to live more sustainably.  Here are some thoughts:

• Your morning cup of coffee might be really important to you.  Rather than give it up, consider ways to make your habit more sustainable.  Look for coffee that is made from fair trade or rain forest certified crops.  If you make it at home, don’t use disposable pods and save the coffee grounds.  The used coffee grounds make excellent fertilizer for houseplants, gardens, and lawns.  If you get your coffee at the local coffee shop, take a reusable cup. 
• Changing to a powdered laundry detergent saves plastic and also the energy used to transport the water in liquid detergents.  However, due to skin sensitivities, it may be difficult to find a brand of detergent that works for your household.  If you need to use the liquid detergent for clothing, use a powdered detergent for towels and similar laundry loads.   Choose fragrance free products and use cold water. 
• Sometimes people suggest giving up your car and using public transportation.  In many areas, public transportation does not exist, and a car is a necessity.  However, you can plan your trips to combine errands and reduce the total number of miles you drive each week. 
• Harsh cleaning chemicals might be necessary for a few situations, so use them (sparingly) when appropriate.  Use something more earth-friendly for everything else.
• Many public restrooms offer only paper towels for drying hands.  Instead of automatically grabbing two or three, try to get by with one.  Shake your hands well before you dry them (this also helps reduce the time needed for an air dryer) so there is less water to absorb. 
• A fully vegan diet will not work for many people.  However, you can still make a difference just by changing a few meals a week to substitute plant-based protein options or choosing poultry or eggs over beef or pork.