Sustainable Reads.

In a world buzzing with smart tech, fast fashion, and 15-minute delivery apps, it's easy to forget that some of the most sustainable ways of living aren’t futuristic at all, they’re from the past. Our grandmothers (and their mothers) lived in a time before “sustainability” was a buzzword, yet their daily habits naturally aligned with low-impact, environmentally conscious living. What can we learn from their simpler lifestyles, and how does it compare to today? Photo by Paul Theodor Oja, Pexels 1. Waste Less, Reuse More Grandma didn’t throw much away. From reusing glass jars for storage to patching clothes and darning socks, she had a habit of extending the life of everything. A butter cookie tin became a sewing box, old bedsheets turned into cleaning cloths, and food scraps went straight to the compost or to the chickens. Today: We’re learning to bring back the art of repair and reuse. Brands are launching circular programs, and DIY culture is on the rise, but there’s still a l...

Sustainability isn’t just about reusable coffee cups or cutting back on plastic packaging (though that certainly helps!). At its heart, sustainability is about balancing three interconnected systems: the environment , the economy , and society . These are known as the Three Pillars of Sustainability , and they form the foundation for building a fairer, greener future. Understanding these pillars helps us make decisions, big and small, that benefit people, the planet, and shared prosperity in the long term. Photo by Soffie Rollins on Unsplash 1. Environmental Sustainability This pillar is often the most recognised. Environmental sustainability focuses on protecting the natural world: our ecosystems, biodiversity, and resources. The key question is: Are we living in a way that allows nature to regenerate and thrive for future generations? Key areas include: Reducing carbon emissions Preserving water, soil, woodlands, and wildlife Minimising pollution and waste Supporting renewable energ...

Forget sprawling allotments and muddy wellies, growing your own food has officially become the height of urban cool. Whether you're in a city flat or a suburban terrace, edible gardens and balcony farms are blossoming as one of the most stylish (and sustainable) trends in modern living. With a bit of creativity and the right setup, even a modest windowsill can become a source of fresh herbs, leafy greens, and laid-back vibes. The Apartment Farmers Why Edible Gardening Is Blooming Right Now 1. Sustainability meets self-sufficiency Growing your own food means fewer supermarket trips, less plastic packaging, and absolutely zero food miles. Even a few pots of herbs or salad leaves can trim your shopping list—and your carbon footprint. 2. Nature therapy on tap Spending time with plants can reduce stress, improve mental wellbeing, and boost your mood. Tending to a mini garden, even on a balcony or windowsill, offers mindfulness, purpose, and that little thrill when your basil finally b...

You might not have heard of them, but PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are quietly lurking in everyday items, from your waterproof jacket to your non-stick frying pan and they’re raising serious concerns for both our health and the environment. In this post, we’ll explain what PFAS are, why they’ve earned the nickname “forever chemicals,” and most importantly, how you can reduce your exposure. Photo by Cooker King on Unsplash What Are PFAS? PFAS are a group of over 12,000 synthetic chemicals used since the 1940s to make products resistant to water, grease, oil, and heat. You’ll find them in: Non-stick cookware (e.g. Teflon frying pans) Waterproof or water-repellent clothing Food packaging (especially fast food wrappers and takeaway containers) Stain-resistant fabrics and carpets Some cosmetics and personal care products They’re known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t naturally break down in the environment or in our bodies. Once they’re here, they tend to stay. Why S...