Decluttering can be Eco-friendly

When the mood strikes for a big spring clean, it's an opportunity to assess what we own, what we've purchased but never used, and what no longer serves us. This self-reflection enables us to recognize our habits and make more informed choices moving forward.

Taking stock of our possessions—like 4 denim jackets, unused purchases such as flavored olive oils and dips, and items that no longer fit our needs, such as uncomfortable skinny jeans—offers insight into our future shopping habits and motivates us to set aside a donation pile.

Organizing our belongings reveals what we already have, preventing unnecessary purchases due to misplaced items like tape, scissors, or sunblock. Utilizing what we own is the cornerstone of sustainability, avoiding the accumulation of partially-used products and redundant items that contribute to unnecessary waste.

Identifying neglected possessions, such as freebies, logo merch, or short-lived kitchen gadgets like bread makers or soft-serve ice cream machines, helps us resist acquiring similar items in the future. We can decline unnecessary logo-branded clothing, borrow seldom-used appliances from friends or family, and purchase only what we genuinely need, like a mini bottle of self-tanner.

Mindfully considering what enters our homes promotes a clutter-free environment. By organizing our things so everything has its place, we're less inclined to create messes and forget about what we already have in our home. For instance, my meticulously organized spice drawer, arranged by my friend Christie, serves as a reminder of the benefits of organization. I replenish spices only when necessary and avoid storing unrelated items in the drawer.

Chances are, we already own suitable alternatives for whatever we think we need. Discovering numerous pairs of scissors scattered throughout my home prompted me to consolidate them into one place. My daughter's reminders during moments of impulse buying reinforce the importance of mindful consumption, ultimately reducing our environmental footprint and moving us towards a less wasteful lifestyle.