Hey earth muffins! After being on an eco journey for a few years, you might begin to notice that you are more aware of sustainability issues… Which oftentimes can lead to being annoyed at people who aren’t as well-educated in the sustainable space. I hear you, this happens to me too. In today’s post, we will be looking at some common eco pet peeves of mine…
~ Wishcycling
We all know these people. If they think something can be recycled they just pop it in the recycling bin. They avoid the issue themselves and force the recycling center/workers to sift out the item as either trash or actual recyclable. Even worse, some people just do this because it helps them avoid high trash collection fees. 🙄 Wishcycling is annoying because it can cause issues (and slowdowns) at the recycling plant. And, of course, the motive of these people to recycle is not in the planet’s best interest. It is essential to educate wishcyclers on how to properly recycle.
~ Using “it isn’t going to make a difference” as an excuse to not try
We definitely all know these people too. Instead of learning about how small changes can make a difference, they decide to not try. I’m fine with people who don’t care enough to make the changes… But don’t use an excuse to rationalize your laziness/indifference to Mother Earth.
~ Stopping after only a few eco swaps
While it’s true that every change makes a difference, it doesn’t make sense to me when people make a couple of eco swaps (like avoiding plastic straws) and then leave it at that. If you have any interest in saving the planet, why not keep going with your sustainable swaps? These things don’t have to be drastic, time consuming, or costly. Just don’t stop when you have momentum!
~ Calling themselves green when they aren’t
I’m looking at a ton of celebrity “sustainability ambassadors” right now. 😑 Don’t greenwash yourself or shout “Save the Planet” on your Insta feed when you don’t try to live green in your daily life. I’m not saying you must be fully zero waste or totally plastic free to be considered “eco-friendly”; but, in my opinion, you do need to make conscious choices in your life before you can call yourself “green”.
Overall, it can be frustrating (and annoying) when these things happen; but, it is important to cut people some slack as well. Use these situations are learning moments – share your wisdom with others (in a polite and helpful way, please!) so that they can start making eco changes to their daily routines. Whether you realize it or not, you are a leader in the climate movement… Your actions impact others who might then consider making similar changes to their own lifestyles. Did I miss any pet peeves that you have? Comment below and let me know what frustrates you the most from this list!
Love,
Jenna ♥
“It isn’t going to make a difference,” is an excuse that I used to use, to be honest. Saying that made me feel like I didn’t have to take responsibility and do the hard things. Your blog has really opened my eyes and acts as a wonderful reminder that I CAN do more and it DOES make a difference. So, thank you for everything you do.