Earth Day: Simple Steps for a Sustainable Future

Earth Day presents an important, timely reminder of our collective responsibility as inhabitants of the earth. It's a catalyst for a global environmental movement, strengthening our respect for the planet while fostering a more sustainable mindset. An opportunity to connect with and protect the environment by making more mindful choices today, tomorrow and for generations to come.

The urgency of addressing plastic pollution demands a concerted global effort. This year's theme for Earth Day, "Planet vs. Plastics", aims to illuminate the health concerns associated with plastic use and advocate for responsible solutions. Progress, not perfection, is key: we acknowledge there's no quick fix, but our actions can pave the way for us all to live as a community in greater harmony with nature.

Here we share some practical advice from The Source, a local zero-waste refillery store near our Richmond hub, and long-term collaborators the Eden Project, an educational environmental charity, on ways to reduce single-use plastics and minimise your environmental impact. Simple, small, achievable changes to daily habits that can significantly contribute to a more sustainable future.

" One of the simplest ways you can reduce your waste is to eliminate single-use plastic water bottles from your day-to-day life," says The Source. A reusable water bottle can be refilled as required when out and about, and vessels such as carafes and jugs can be filled from the tap at home. These are made from impermeable materials such as BPA free stainless steel or glass, which avoids the risk of plastic leaching. A carafe and tumbler set adds contemporary style to the desk or dining table and drinks can be flavoured as you wish – add a few slices of lemon or a sprig of mint to water, or use to serve batch cocktails. 

You can also sign the Earth Day organisation's Global Plastics Treaty, which calls on the United Nations and non-governmental organisations to take decisive action in creating a waste-free world.

"Roughly half of the planet’s habitable land is used to produce food for humans. The way food is grown, reared and produced can do great harm or great good," notes the Eden Project. Eating less meat and dairy in favour of more plants and wholefoods, such as legumes, pulses, nuts and seeds, can help to make a difference, as well as growing your own. "Start small with a simple window box of lettuce or beansprouts," suggests the Eden Project. Even a pot of herbs on the kitchen bench offers a sustainable and renewable way of adding plant-based flavour to your meals.

Or take it one step further with a pollinator garden, transforming your garden or windowsill into a haven for bees, birds and insects. Plants offer a simple way to support the other creatures in our ecosystem, which rely on biodiverse habitats for food and shelter. Some pollinator favourites include basil, fennel, lavender and oregano, which offer sustainable, renewable and edible displays. You can read more about pollinator gardens via Earth Day.

Refilling store cupboard ingredients at a bulk store can benefit both people and the planet, offering an alternative to the standardised, pre-packaged minimums offered at the supermarket. "Not only will it help you reduce your packaging waste but will also help you reduce food waste by only buying what you need," says The Source. Seeking out local, seasonal food can make a difference. "Make a point of visiting your local farmers market, butcher and green grocer instead of supermarkets," says the Eden Project, "and look out for certifications...Fairtrade, organic and B Corp".

This mindful approach extends to food storage, with mouth-blown glass containers offering a healthier and more sustainable alternative to plastic – better for the environment and your health. Vessels with tactile materials such as mouth-blown glass and natural wood can transform store cupboard ingredients into considered displays. When it comes to refilling the containers, The Source suggest opting for an organic reusable produce bag. "They fold down easily so can be carried easily in your bag and can be washed and reused over and over again."

A considered approach to design creates products of enduring value, offering a more sustainable choice. At LSA, we advocate for fewer things, made better – timeless, high-quality and versatile objects that allow you to do more with less.

Repurposing is a sustainable approach that allows us to look at what we have in a new, resourceful light. Can a glass become a vase, a mini planter, a pen pot, an olive dish? Can a jug double up as a vase? Can an ice bucket be used as a fruit bowl?

"First think reuse, then think recycle! If an item is truly at the end of it's useful life don't just throw it away," says The Source, "where possible, always recycle." Look for objects made from recyclable and recycled materials, such as glass, which is 100% circular and can be melted and remelted infinitely without losing its quality. Our Canopy collection is mouth-blown from recycled glass, transforming waste material into something of value. The collection includes drinkware, vases and planters, created to address key environmental issues of hydration and single-use plastics, and propagation to support plant preservation.

Developed in partnership with the Eden Project, the collection is inspired by the idea that we have a collective responsibility in living together under the same canopy – a belief of enduring relevance which embodies spirit of Earth Day.

Our thanks to The Source and the Eden Project for their contributions to this article. For further resources, download this year's Earth Day Action Toolkit or visit their website.