"How to Make Simple Sustainable Switches in Your Daily Life"

1. I don't use paper towel any more in the kitchen. I have swapped this out for tea towels, which I wash in the washing machine after I use them. Paper towel cannot be recycled in our household recycling bins. Although paper towel is paper, like tissues and toilet paper, it is made of very short fibers which are not long enough to be recycled so it therefore contaminates paper bales that get created in the recycling process.

2. I turn the water off in my shower when I am lathering up my shampoo or conditioner or shaving my legs. The amount of water that is wasted whilst I stand their completing my selfcare routine is measurable. So, whilst it is warm enough, I will be turning off the water to complete the necessary hygiene steps to keep the bod smelling fresh and looking smooth.

3. I remember to take my keep cup filled with a glorious, caffeinated beverage (curtesy of my better than a barista husband) and take reusable containers with snacks for the kidlets when we go out. Not only does this save money (#cozzielives) but it reduces the single use containers I would use if I was not prepared. It also saves many a tantrum when we all hit that hangry stage of the day. Having snacks on hand is now a routine my kids are so familiar with that I hope it translates as a habit into their teenage and adult life.

4. I have been vegan now since 2019. Something I and my husband decided to do as a family after the precious east coast of Australia went up in flames, along with so many family homes, business and tragically, lives too. I felt helpless and anxious for our future, and after researching the bejeezus out of what impacts individuals can make to help reduce climate change, eating a plant-based diet camp up again and again. So, we swapped our meat and dairy almost overnight. And we have not looked back. It has been one of the easiest swaps we have ever made, contrary to many people's opinions. Meat does no need to be the focus of your meals. Now I don't force my kids to eat strict vegan diets. They eat vegan when we are at home but can choose whatever they want to when they are invited to birthday parties, cafes lunches and school events. The important messages we try to convey and conversations we have with them is what are 'sometimes' and 'everyday' foods and the reasons why we choose to eat vegan. You don't have to go completely plant based to make an impact on your consumption and footprint. Why not try just once a week. You might find, like me, that it is quite easy, and still a delicious way to make a difference.