Recent research shows 90 per cent of Australian consumers are wanting to purchase sustainable products, however making the switch to a greener lifestyle may be difficult for some. As more consumers look to reduce their environmental impact, Melanie McVean, co-founder of Australia’s favourite natural deodorant, No Pong, says it doesn’t have to be costly, time consuming or difficult.
“I recommend tackling the shift one step at a time, and the bathroom is a great place to start,” Melanie said.
“If you took a look in your bathroom, it wouldn’t be long before you find tools and personal care products that can be swapped out for something more eco-friendly.
Melanie shares her top five simple tips on how to make your bathroom and routine greener:
- Reduce plastic
In 2018-19, a total of 3.5 million tonnes of plastics were consumed in Australia.
“We are surfers and regular travellers throughout South East Asia, chasing the amazing waves that region has to offer. However, we are also unfortunate veterans of paddling through literal seas of plastic, and walking beaches knee-deep in plastic rubbish that has blown ashore. It’s saddening and preventable.
“When we started No Pong, we vowed not to use plastic in our packaging at all as there was no way we were going to contribute to this. Yet, unfortunately most bathroom products do use single-use, plastic packaging – your body wash, shampoo and conditioner, and face wash to name a few,” Melanie said.
“If you want to minimise your consumption of plastic, consider using a bar of soap, shampoo or face wash instead. Swap out your disposable plastic razor for an electric one, and your plastic toothbrush for a bamboo one – it’ll save you money and the planet in the long run.”
To play their part in reducing their carbon footprint, No Pong tins are made out of ‘tinplate’; a material combining tin and steel and is fully recyclable. Customers can also upcycle the tins at specific stockists across Australia.
- Green products
Natural beauty and personal care products have grown in popularity and the plethora of options available for makeup, moisturisers, body wash and more, makes switching over that much easier.
“It’s always important to consider what products are being used on sensitive parts of your body such as eyes, lips or even your armpits,” Melanie said. “With all the effort we put in to eat well and live a healthy lifestyle, it doesn’t make sense to then use products filled with chemicals, parabens and other questionable ingredients.
“Not all natural products are created equal, so be sure to read the ingredients on the product. Make sure you familiarise yourself with natural, sustainable, and renewable ingredients and the effectiveness of certain ingredients. Never be afraid to research a brand and ask them directly about their ethical ingredient sourcing policy.”
No Pong deodorants are made from all-natural ingredients that work together, neutralising odour rather than blocking pores, and is designed to absorb sweat while allowing your skin to breathe.
- The old adage, “Someone else’s trash is another person’s treasure!”
Instead of buying new, see where you can up-cycle or repurpose someone else’s trash. Online resale marketplaces are treasure mines of reusable materials that can add a splash of something new to your bathroom.
Whether you’re looking to switch over to low-flow fixtures to minimise your water use, or even spruce up your bathroom look, opting for second-hand goods can do your pocket and the planet some good!
- Put pause on the power
Anything that uses heat requires significant power, so why not towel or air dry your hair, and cut back on using appliances like hair dryers, straighteners or curlers. Your locks will thank you for the break too! In a similar vein, air dry your towels to save the extra 30 minutes in the dryer.
- Install a recycling bin
We all say we do it, and we all have the right intentions, but recycling can be easier said than done. Convenience is everything, so by placing a recycling bin in your bathroom, you might find yourself making small adjustments with big impact. If you’re not sold on switching from single use plastics or aerosol cans, consider a dedicated recycling bin (once you’ve cleaned out and emptied the contents!) to put your empties into.
Go to www.nopong.com.au today to find out more.
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