Summer sustainability made easy

The days are long and the sun shines bright—summer in New Zealand offers the perfect opportunity to embrace sustainable living. Whether you're a seasoned eco-warrior or just starting out on your sustainability journey, here are a few simple ways to reduce your environmental impact while enjoying all this season has to offer.

1. Reduce food waste with smart storage

Food waste is one of the biggest contributors to landfill, and it's something we can all help reduce. In summer, when produce is in abundance, we tend to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables, but often end up throwing away food that’s gone bad.

• Use beeswax wraps instead of wax paper to wrap sandwiches for work, picnic or school.
• Use compostable cling wrap instead of traditional plastic cling film. It’ll keep things just as fresh with the added advantage of being compostable.
• Repurpose scraps: Make stock from veggie scraps or start composting to enrich your garden.
• Freeze excess produce: If you have too many berries or leafy greens at one time, pop them in a compostable food bag and into the freezer before they spoil. Then you can use them in smoothies or baking later on.

2. Find alternatives to single-use plastics

Single-use plastics are everywhere and often end up littering our beaches and clogging our oceans. The good news is that there are plenty of simple swaps you can make in the kitchen that will cut down your plastic consumption:

• Invest in reusable shopping bags: Keep a few in the car, and even one in your handbag, so you’ll always have a reusable bags with you when you shop.
• Switch to glass or stainless steel containers: Instead of plastic opt for glass jars or stainless steel containers to store leftovers or lunch. These are not only more sustainable but also free from harmful chemicals found in plastics.
• Use a reusable coffee cup: Whether you're at home or on the go, using a reusable coffee cup cuts down on the need for disposable coffee cups and lids.

3. Embrace solar power for energy efficiency

With Aotearoa’s sunny summer days, there’s no better time to make use of solar power. Even small adjustments in your home can help reduce your carbon footprint and lower your energy bills:

• Solar-powered appliances: Consider investing in solar-powered garden lights, water heaters, or even a small solar panel setup for your home to reduce reliance on electricity from the grid.
• Harness natural light: Instead of reaching for the light switch, open those windows and let the sun shine in. Not only does it save energy, but it also boosts your mood.
• Ditch the dryer: Line dry your clothes for fresh fabrics.  

4. Compost your kitchen waste

If you don’t already compost, summer is the perfect time to start. New Zealanders are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of composting, and it's a great way to reduce waste and nourish your garden.

• Create a compost bin: You can easily create a compost bin in your garden or use a worm farm for smaller spaces. Food scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, and egg shells are perfect for composting.
• Consider bokashi bins: If you live in an apartment or have limited space, bokashi bins are an excellent option for composting. They’re small, easy to manage, and can handle most types of food waste.

5. Grow your own herbs and veggies

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of cooking with fresh, home-grown ingredients. Plus, growing your own produce is a fantastic way to reduce the carbon footprint of your meals and have a healthier, more sustainable summer.

• Start a small herb garden: Even if you don’t have a big backyard, herbs like basil, mint, or parsley can be grown in pots on your windowsill or balcony. They’re low maintenance and add incredible flavour to your dishes.
• Grow your own veggies: For those with a bit more space, consider growing seasonal vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also reduce the need to transport produce long distances, which helps cut down on emissions.

6. Eat seasonally and locally

When it comes to reducing your food-related environmental impact, eating locally and seasonally is one of the most impactful changes you can make. By choosing produce that’s in season in New Zealand, you're not only supporting local farmers, but you're also reducing the energy it takes to grow and transport food.

• Visit your local farmers’ markets: Farmers’ markets are a great place to find fresh, seasonal produce that hasn’t been transported long distances. Plus, you'll be supporting local businesses and reducing the carbon footprint of your groceries.
• Plan your meals around what’s in season: Eating seasonally means your meals will be fresher, tastier, and more environmentally friendly. Think peaches, berries, and asparagus...yum!

7. Use non-toxic cleaning products

Cleaning products can often contain harsh chemicals that aren’t only bad for the environment but also for your health. Thankfully, there are simple, natural alternatives that can keep your home sparkling clean.

• Make your own cleaners: Many common cleaning products can be made at home using natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. For example, a mixture of white vinegar and water works wonders as a glass cleaner.
• Opt for eco-friendly brands: If DIY isn’t your thing, there are many New Zealand-based brands that offer eco-friendly cleaning products made from natural ingredients.
• Choose eco cloths: Swap out your micro-plastic leeching microfibre and rayon weave cloths for more sustainable bamboo cloths.
• Limit your use of paper towels by washing your bamboo cloths and re-using them instead.

8. Be water-wise

We’re coming to that time in the season when hot, dry spells become more frequent – so it's important to be mindful of water usage.

• Fix leaks: Check your taps, toilets, and showerheads for leaks and repair them promptly to prevent wasting water.
• Install water-saving devices: Low-flow showerheads and faucets can reduce water usage without compromising on performance. In the kitchen, you can use a bowl or basin when washing dishes instead of letting the tap run.

9. Choose eco-friendly BBQ options

BBQs are a staple of Kiwi summer gatherings, but traditional charcoal BBQs can be harmful to the environment.

• Go for a gas or electric BBQ: Gas and electric BBQs produce fewer emissions than charcoal grills, making them a more eco-friendly option.
• Avoid single-use disposable items: Instead of using disposable plates, cutlery, and napkins, choose reusable options. You can even invest in a set of reusable skewers or tongs to cut down on waste.
• Cut down on plastic wrap by using compostable alternatives for food storage and marinading.

Sustainability in summer doesn't have to be complicated. By embracing these summer sustainability tips, you’ll not only help protect Aotearoa’s beautiful environment, but you’ll also create a healthier, more conscious lifestyle for yourself and your family.

What are your favourite sustainable hacks? Please consider sharing them with us on social media!