Goods and food often make up over 50% of an individual’s and home’s ecological footprint. There are also environmental issues associated with food and goods production relating to resource use (including land use, water use and mineral extraction), hazardous and/or toxic ingredients, production waste and post-consumer waste.
Goods in the home
There are a multitude of sustainable practices relating to goods consumption outlined in this section, click on the links below for more information.
Clothes and shoes
Choosing sustainable options when shopping for clothes and shoes is is a complex and difficult process because of the range of factors. We provide a guide to help you. Read more»
Cleaning and laundry
Cleaning helps improves the performance, efficiency and longevity of most items. Cleaning also reducing a variety of health costs, but cleanings can also pollute the air and water. Read more»
Gardening
Growing your own fruit and vegetables will help the environment, and your health. But gardeners can create environmental problems by using synthetic pesticides and herbicides. Read more»
Cosmetics and personal care products
These products are often made from synthetic, sometimes toxic, ingredients. The best options are made from natural, renewable ingredients with minimal, recyclable packaging. Read more»
Furniture and furnishings
Making environmentally smart choices for the furnishing of your home or office can make a big difference to your impact on the planet as well as your health. Read more»
DIY products
Consider the environmental effects of DIY products such as paints, strippers, glues, wood stains, wood preservatives, varnishes and solvents. Read more»