"What is the use of a house if you haven't got a tolerable planet to put it on? -- Henry David Thoreau
In 2019 Irish households produced 1.6 million tons of waste. (National Waste Statistics) That's close to a ton of waste per household. That's the equivalent of a car or a Rhino.
Careless consumption of things that we don’t even need is having a huge negative impact on our earth!
The more I learned about the textile industry (second only to oil in its negative environmental impact) the more I began to shop previously owned clothing and more responsible brands as a way to do my part in supporting the environment.
When I started Lúnasa I adopted a philosophy of responsible retail that I am still proud of today. We operate on a hierarchy of sourcing our products. We look to Mayo producers first, then made in Ireland then vintage, eco and fairly traded gifts.
Shopping locally is a big improvement from international shopping. Supporting local businesses is good for the environment because they often have a smaller carbon footprint than larger companies. Local producers produce less air and water pollution than mass produced.
By shopping locally, you are purchasing goods produced in your local community. Not to mention the employment and financial benefits it is better for the environment. Conversely, when you shop at larger stores many of the items you buy travel over 1500 miles to reach the store By cutting down on these miles, you are reducing the environmental impact of your purchases. Local goods don't create large carbon footprints through overseas plane travel or long truck trips.
if you want to step it up a notch then opt for eco-friendly material such as organic cotton, hemp clothing, linen…etc. Plastic through it's production and it's disposal is creating a huge problem for our planet and oceans.
Our suppliers, like us, use recyclable materials right through from their products to their packaging.
So take a moment this Earth Month to stop by your local charity shop, make a donation, shop their stores, and give yourself a pat on the back for helping to reduce waste.
To build a more resilient community and supporting a more resilient Earth be more mindful about your purchases. Think about how your money could be better spent to also Invest in our Planet and just think of the good it will do for your wallet.