Living more sustainably is a goal that more and more Australians are striving towards today. Eco-friendly living is a journey rather than a destination, and many of us have to ‘unlearn’ old habits or reflect on our daily routines in order to gradually build practices that are more sustainable.
Eco-friendly living doesn’t need to take a lot of time and planning, or require a specific budget. If you’re looking to live more sustainably, we’ve compiled a list of four simple practices that you can start integrating right now, without having to make drastic changes to your current lifestyle. Learn more below:
One step at a time
Our first tip to empower your journey toward sustainable living is to simply start somewhere. Being eco-friendly doesn’t have to mean overhauling your entire home on day one. Instead, make gradual changes and sustainable ‘swaps’ that you and your family can stick to.
For example, you may wish to transition to cloth nappies Opt for Go Bamboo toothbrushes (rather than plastic) when your current one needs replacing. Wrap kids’ lunches in reusable food pouches, rather than single-use cling wrap. Little by little, you’ll find more sustainable solutions that make sense for you and your family.
Shop local
Buying locally made goods (or locally grown food) is a great way to live more sustainably and to support your community. For instance, did you know that many of the non-seasonal fruits and vegetables at your grocery store have probably been transported from interstate, or even from overseas? Choosing to support local makers and producers can drastically reduce your carbon footprint, and helps put funds back into your community.
Supporting local artists, boutiques and thrift stores also means that you’re more likely to find special items that are one of a kind. It’s valuable to remember that buying certified Australian Made products helps to support jobs and economic development in our communities.
Look for quality
One of the easiest ways to embrace an eco-friendly lifestyle is to look for quality over quantity. Choosing reusable items that are made to last (and can be used time and again,) is preferable to buying items with a limited lifespan that need to be regularly replaced.
Although single-use items such as a plastic shopping bag are marketed as fast and ‘convenient’, the damage to our ecosystems is long-term. Even something as ubiquitous as a plastic bag may take up to 1,000 years to decompose! At Here & After, we have a beautiful range of reusable bags and other items that are locally sourced and expertly crafted, to ensure that your belongings stand the test of time.
Inspire others
Our final tip is probably something you’re already doing without even realising! Involving others in your journey towards sustainable living will help you to achieve your vision, and will help friends and family feel inspired too!
Making more eco-friendly choices is something that everyone can do in their own unique way. Whether you’re choosing eco-friendly toys and games for your children, gifting your family with sustainable treasures, or encouraging your workplace to use less harmful chemicals, there’s endless possibilities when it comes to inspiring others and bringing them along on your eco journey.
How did you take the first step towards sustainability? Share your thoughts with us!
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The belief that we need to change now, so we can change the future is why we created Here & After, to simplify the eco journey so that sustainable living can be achievable for every family.
Here & After offers simple, practical and eco-friendly home and baby care products created with your family’s health and the environment in mind. We’re here to support you in your parenthood journey and beyond - empowering you to choose what you feel is right for your family.
]]>Unlike disposable wet wipes, the thick cotton fabric provides a deep clean without smearing mess further. This means that you avoid accidentally touching muck and getting it on your hands.
Life is busy, so constantly buying skin-safe wipes can be frustrating. The Here & After Reusable Wipes System removes the stress of avoiding harsh chemicals and ensures you’re never caught in a “messy situation” without a wipe.
Feel confident at home or on the go knowing you are simplifying your daily routine and reducing your household budget and waste. Using reusable wipes stops 14,000 wipes (per child) from ending up in landfill, as well as saving you up to $1,500 over two years!
I have a newborn and it's perfect, with multiple changes a day and some of those would need multiple disposable wipes, I now only need one reusable wipe, the wipes are soft and the solution not only smells wonderful its safe for his sensitive skin too
- Sarah, Sunshine Coast
]]>Our unique design is made with thick cotton and edged with durable binding to keep each cloth in great condition after every wash. The earth-inspired colours create a calming, contemporary environment for your home and help to categorise different cleaning jobs. Keep one set in the nursery for quick nappy changing and another in the kitchen for ongoing spills and surface cleaning.
Replace disposable sponges, tissues, paper towels, make-up wipes, and harsh-chemical baby wipes with all-purpose reusable wipes.
Whether you are a parent or looking for eco-baby products for a loved one, Reusable Cloth Wipes are an essential item for the home that will make cleaning easier for years to come. They are available individually or as a part of our Reusable Wipes System.
Australia's commitment to eco-friendly practices has evolved over the years, with notable changes in 2023 compared to previous years. Here's a comparison of Australia's commitment to sustainability:
1. Renewable Energy Adoption:
2. Plastic Reduction Efforts:
3. Thrift and Secondhand Culture:
4. Community Gardens:
5. Eco-Friendly Events:
6. Beach and Ocean Conservation:
7. Sustainability Education:
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Eco-Friendly Winter Apparel
Stay snug and stylish with eco-friendly winter apparel options that are as kind to the planet as they are to you. Opt for garments made from organic cotton, recycled wool, or sustainable materials like bamboo. These clothing options are not only eco-conscious but also incredibly soft and comfortable. Have you heard of the EMF blocking beanies? Not only that they are made from premium quality cotton but also they reduce your concerns on wireless radiation from cell phones, WIFI, laptops, Bluetooth, 5G. The hood provides RF Shielding with edge to edge protection underneath the cotton polyester. These beanies also come in small sizes. Perfect for the little ones!
Winter Laundry Must-Have
Winter brings with it the chilly winds and dampness that make drying clothes a daunting task. The struggle to dry clothes during this season seems never-ending. With the lack of sunlight and the constant moisture in the air, hanging laundry outside becomes almost impossible. Indoor drying becomes the only option, but it poses its own challenges. Wool dryer balls are the best winter laundry must-have! This is one off purchase that last a lifetime. They reduce drying time and power bill by absorbing moisture and creating air pockets in the load for better circulation and a more even distribution of heat.
Eco-Friendly Food Container
Winter weather makes our food cold easier. To keep the food hot, a must-have is this Insulated Food Jar by Ever Eco. Ideal for a hot lunch such as soup, pasta, curry, noodles, dahl, stew, rice and stir fry. It can also be for a cold meal such as overnight oats, chia pudding, fruit salad, cereal and more.
Winter Essential Companion
When winter arrives with its icy grip, heat packs become an essential companion. The biting cold seeps into our bones, leaving us longing for warmth and comfort. Heat packs provide that much-needed respite, offering a soothing embrace of heat that penetrates deep within. Whether it's a microwavable heat pack, an electric one, or even the portable hand warmers, they all work their magic in banishing the winter chill. This Wheatbag Love Pack by Wheatbags Love fits comfortably across shoulders, tummies, lower backs, feet and can be used for sore shoulders, tight necks, period cramps, aching lower backs and stomach pain amongst many other uses!
Sustainable Winter Decor
Embrace the winter wonderland vibe inside your home with eco-friendly winter decor. Choose handmade ornaments crafted from sustainable materials like wood, recycled glass, or felt. Add a touch of greenery with potted winter plants that purify the air and bring life to your space. You can try our Use&Refill Jars. Not only do they add aesthetics to your kitchen, they are also very useful and space-efficient. For lighting, opt for energy-efficient LED bulbs and consider using solar-powered outdoor decorations.
As the cold winds blow, let's make this winter season a celebration of sustainable living and environmental stewardship. By incorporating eco-friendly products into our lives, we can create a positive impact on the world around us.
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When it comes to making mindful purchasing decisions, selecting products made from durable materials is crucial. By investing in items that stand the test of time, we reduce waste and promote sustainability. Here are some materials to keep in mind for long-lasting products:
Solid Wood
Opt for furniture and home accessories crafted from solid wood, such as oak or teak. Known for their durability and timeless appeal, they can withstand years of use and even improve with age.
Stainless Steel
Whether it's kitchenware, appliances, or water bottles, stainless steel is an excellent choice. It's corrosion-resistant, easy to clean, and highly durable, ensuring your products last for years to come. Here & After offers a wide range of stainless steel products - from stainless steel divided plates to stainless steel measuring spoons. You can check out our home collection for the products we stock.
Natural Fibres
Look for clothing and textiles made from natural fibres like organic cotton, linen, and hemp. These materials are not only comfortable and breathable but also resilient, making them perfect for long-lasting wardrobes and home textiles. Did you know that our reusable cloth wipes are made from natural fibres? Cloth wipes are the kind of eco-baby product that will continue to benefit you and your family. They are a tried and tested investment that can be used in every area of the home, both inside and out!
Glass
Choosing glass containers for food storage, beverages, and home decor is a smart move. Glass is non-toxic, easy to clean, and resistant to stains and odours. Plus, it's highly durable and can be reused endlessly.
Cast Iron
Cookware made from cast iron is renowned for its durability and excellent heat distribution. With proper seasoning and care, cast iron pans and pots can become cherished family heirlooms, passing from one generation to the next.
Recycled or Upcycled Materials
Products crafted from recycled or upcycled materials offer both sustainability and durability. Items made from recycled plastic, reclaimed wood, or repurposed fabrics reduce waste while showcasing creativity and innovation.
Remember, investing in high-quality, long-lasting products not only benefits the environment but also saves you money in the long run. By choosing materials that can withstand the test of time, we can create a more sustainable and resilient future.
]]>In today's world, it is easy to become accustomed to convenience forget how our actions impact the planet. However, with overconsumption and world population at an all-time high and the impact it has on our planet, it is crucial that we start making changes in our lifestyle to preserve the environment.
One of the first steps towards sustainable living is reducing our consumption. This means minimising the amount of single use items we use, opting for reusable items instead of single-use ones, and choosing products that are eco-friendly. At Here&After, we aim to simplify the eco journey so that sustainable living can be for achievable for every family.
Another important aspect of sustainable living is mindful eating. This means choosing foods that are locally produced and sustainably grown. We can also reduce our food waste by planning our meals and only buying what we need. Shopping consciously for groceries and being eco-aware is a meaningful decision each of us can make.
Sustainable living is not just about the individual choices we make, but also about the choices we make as a society. Consumers can make a difference by supporting environmentally-conscious businesses and pushing for eco-friendly policies.
Living a sustainable lifestyle may seem daunting, but it's important to remember that every small action counts and it all starts with small, repeatable steps. Whether it's using reusable items or supporting environmentally-conscious businesses, every action we take towards sustainable living helps to reduce our impact on the environment. Together, we can make a difference and preserve the planet for future generations.
]]>Reusable wipes have a number of benefits that make them the better choice for anyone looking to be more sustainable.
Every parent wants the best for their child and knowing ingredients in everyday products is one way to ensure you're keeping your child safe. When it comes to baby wipes, different brands contain very different ingredients but some contain chemicals that may actually cause or aggravate skin irritations such as eczema and nappy rash. Disposable baby wipes need to sit on the shop floor for months to years so you can expect harsh ingredients as they need to ensure they can be stored wet without any pathogen growth. On top of preservatives, you an expect to find fragrances, parabens, SLS's and many more chemicals that may cause skin irritation. Cloth wipes can reduce the chance of nappy rash and is highly recommended for sensitive skin.
Cloth wipes save you up to $1500 over a 2-year period, that is for nappy changes only but it is much more if you’re using disposable ones for meal times and general messes. While disposable wipes may seem cheaper initially, the cost can quickly add up over time. By investing in reusable wipes, you will save yourself money in the long run.
In addition to saving money, reusable wipes are also better for the environment. Disposable wipes are typically made from synthetic materials that can take hundreds of years to break down. This means that they can linger in landfill for generations, contributing to the ever-growing problem of waste and pollution. Did you know that 500 tons of waste is removed from Sydney’s water waste system every year with the largest fatberg weighing 14 tons, which is equivalent to 1 million wet wipes? By choosing reusable wipes, you can reduce your impact on the planet and help to promote a more sustainable future.
Another benefit of reusable wipes is that they are often more effective than their disposable counterparts. Unlike slippery, disposable wipes, cotton wipes are grippy and get the job done fast and effectively! No smearing or needing to use 6 wipes for one job - reusable wipes clean better! They are made from high-quality organic material and they can be washed and reused for many years, over multiple children. This means that you can use them to clean up spills, wipe down surfaces, and more, without having to worry about them falling apart or losing their absorbency.
By making a conscious decision to reduce your waste and promote sustainability, you are setting an example for others to follow. This can help to encourage more people to make environmentally-friendly choices in their everyday lives, and can ultimately lead to a cleaner, healthier planet for all of us.
In conclusion, choosing reusable wipes is a smart decision for anyone who wants to be more sustainable. Not only will it save you money over time, but it is also better for the environment, more effective, and can help to promote a more sustainable future. Whether you are cleaning messy bottoms, sticky hands, spilled drinks, and stubborn make-up, to reduce your impact on the planet, reusable wipes are a great choice that you won't regret.
]]>A babies needs are very basic and we can make decisions on purchases and practices to ensure we are being respectful to the environment as our little one grows. Remember that what we do and use as parents is often the tools and practices our children will adopt themselves as adults. We have the chance to show them how to live simply while being mindful of how our choices impact our environment.
Here are some simple ways you can minimise waste while having a baby…
Most baby items are often used for such a short period of time that second hand items are barely used or may never have been used! Rather than purchasing new, consider second hand options for things like prams, play equipment, cots, clothes and nursery items such as baby monitors.
Again, due to babies growing so quickly, clothes are often used for a very short period of time. Having a friend or family member with a slightly older baby can be a wonderful source of hand-me-downs. You can then pass these on to ensure they get a third or fourth use.
Depending on your situation, consider making the switch to reusable nappies and wipes if you feel this is manageable. Cloth nappies will save over 400g of waste going into landfill and making the switch to cloth wipes will save up to 14,000 wipes ending up in our bins and waterways PER CHILD. Remember you don’t have to do it perfectly! Using just a couple of cloth nappies per day really adds up and makes a difference. Many people want to do “something” for the environment and cloth wipes are a wonderful start. Not only are they better for the environment, but they save up to $1500 over 2 years, are more effective at cleaning and are better for your little ones skin.
Consider this especially if you plan on having more than one baby. Buying unisex clothing may be the difference between being able to reuse all of your items again or feeling the need to purchase more.
It is easy to believe you need all the baby items before the baby is born but it is a good to sit back and wait a little before jumping right in. You will learn pretty quickly what your baby does and doesn’t like and what you really do require, so best not to rush in and purchase unnecessary items before their arrival.
Not only is plastic bad for the environment, but it will also breakdown or crack over time. When it comes to things like toys, cups, water bottles and plates, steer clear of plastic items if you can. Wood and stainless-steel items may be more cost up front, but they will last you a lifetime.
This is particularly useful when wanting to reduce waste, save money or if you live in a minimalist house. Borrowing toys and books are a wonderful way to enjoy these items without needing to buy them. You can swap them as needed to welcome in new items as your baby grows.
Consider the time of year your baby will be born and when they will enter new seasons before you purchase clothing. It sounds simple but is often overlooked. Gorgeous winter coats and boots will be wasted on a summer baby and swimsuits may will be outgrown before you get to use them if your little one is born in the cooler months. Also consider the amount you will need. As a new parent you will be washing very regularly so may not need as many clothes as you think. It is easy to be swept up in the cuteness of baby clothes but take a step back and think practically about what they will need before you commit to buying it.
The baby industry is big business and can often try to sell you items you may not need. Baby towels for example – an adult towel is just as effective and perfectly fine to use. Using a water bottle or container filled with rice makes a lovely rattle sound. Milestone cards can be replaced with phone apps with milestone features rather than you needing to buy these for just one use.
We'd love to hear what steps you take to reduce waste while raising children!
]]>However, as many of us have come to learn, just because something is easy doesn’t mean it’s eco-friendly. Flushing wet wipes down the toilet is a major cause of sewer blockages and can be hazardous to our waterways. The ABC has previously reported that the cost of removing wet wipes from sewer systems reaches millions of dollars. (Google ‘wipe fatberg’ if you dare!)
To make matters worse, single-use wet wipes are not biodegradable. Even brands that claim their wipes are safe to flush are often not! Wet wipes that end up in landfills may take up to 100 years to break down, causing harm to natural flora and fauna in the meantime. Fortunately, there are alternatives including our brand new reusable cloth wipes!
Here & After Reusable Cloth Wipes
Our team is so happy to announce the arrival of the Here & After Reusable Cloth Wipes. After doing heaps of trying, testing, and testing some more, we have finally created the reusable wipe of our dreams - one that’s better for people - and better for the planet! Available in a pack of 25 and soon 10, these sustainable wipes are 100% certified organic cotton and made to last.
We’ve paid careful attention to the style and design of the Here & After Reusable Cloth range. You’ll be able to choose from four beautiful colours that are inspired by nature. Select from sage green, storm blue, lavender or unbleached cotton. Each wipe is sized 16 cm x 16cm.
We are proudly an Australian owned and operated company, so you can know you’re supporting a family-run business that puts eco-awareness and sustainability at the heart of everything we do, including environmentally friendly packaging and reliable shipping.
You can check out our Here & After Reusable Cloth Wipes here and for under $50, they make the perfect gift for parents, grandparents and carers of all kinds.
]]>If you’re like us you’re probably hoping to be more mindful of where your goods come this year including those you buy for yourself, and for others. Here’s our list of eco-friendly gift ideas for conscious giving this holiday season.
]]>The silly season is almost upon us, and for most, gift-giving is an important part of celebrating with our nearest and dearest. If you’re like us you’re probably hoping to be more mindful of where your goods come from including those you buy for yourself, and for others. Here’s our list of eco-friendly gift ideas for conscious giving this holiday season.
Many Australians are finding new ways to shop in an eco-friendly way. To help support your loved ones’ journey towards more sustainable living, we recommend this beautiful Farmers Market Bag Set. Containing a choice of differently sized bags, this complete set offers warm neutral tones, quality finishes, and is made from certified organic cotton.
You may also wish to add a gift from our range of zero-plastic lunchboxes and water bottles. Food-grade stainless steel lunch boxes are dishwasher safe and contain pre-proportioned compartments that make meal preparation easy. In addition, our leak-proof stainless steel water bottles will help your friends and family to break up with single-use plastics for good!
If you’re looking for eco-friendly gift ideas for parents-to-be, we’ve got you covered! To celebrate a new arrival in your family, opt for the Feeding Bottle Gift Pack by Lion & Lady. With a thoughtful and practical design, these feeding bottles can be used from a baby’s birth and all throughout their childhood developmental stages.
For more eco-friendly diapers, we suggest these gorgeous cloth nappies. These clever designs offer adjustable sizings, interchangeable inserts, and a slim fit that creates a comfortable seal. Did we mention the choice of soft colours are inspired by Australian landscapes?
Reusable cloth wipes are the perfect gift for any household. Our sustainable cloth wipes are certified organic cotton, designed to reduce household waste and exposure to perfumes and irritants commonly found in single-use wet wipes. Cloth wipes can serve a myriad of functions in a home, from personal hygiene to cleaning and baby care.
It can be so hard to find cute eco-friendly gifts for kids. If you have a little makeup artist in your family, this natural play make-up pack contains eyeshadows, blush and lip balm in pretty tones, all created with non-toxic ingredients like shea butter and essential oils. This non toxic water-based nail polish provides a fun manicure or pedicure that’s free from harsh chemicals.
For little hairstylists, try these plant-based haircare products made from natural ingredients. Choose from detangling spray, styling paste, or hydrating mist - with the entire range being vegan and cruelty-free. This hair care collection is created with kids in mind, making it perfect for family fun.
Wheat bags and wheat pillows can offer a range of benefits, from easing headaches and migraines to helping sore eyes and encouraging relaxation. This lovingly crafted range of lavender wheat bag products can be used when cooled, warmed, or at room temperature.
If you’re taking extra steps to protect your wellness or the wellness of your child, a radiation blocking cap and silver-lined protective poncho can help to shield you from radiation caused by electromagnetic fields (EMF) - caused by cell phones, WIFI, Bluetooth, and more.
Once you’ve completed your shopping list, we recommend choosing a reusable fabric gift wrap that will make your presents stand out under the Christmas tree! Available in a choice of eye-catching festive designs, fabric gift wrap does away with the need for single-use wrapping paper and sticky tape. Style, sustainability and convenience? That’s what we love!
What’s on your Christmas list this year? Are you opting for more eco-friendly gift ideas? Share your thoughts with the Here & After community.
]]>I have not owned cling wrap for years. I cannot remember when I had it last in my home, and I do not miss it at all. As plastic cling wrap can be used only once before it is discarded, there are so many better options to choose from! Firstly, figure out what purpose it has in your kitchen. Are you wrapping a sandwich? Popping it on top of a bowl of leftovers?
If you use it to wrap a sandwich or roll in, consider the Onya reusable wraps that can be used for years to come. They are made from recycled water bottles too – a double win for the environment.
If you are looking to cover a bowl of leftover food, I love the Little Mashies silicone lid covers. They come in a pack with multiple sizes, are super easy to use and a breeze to clean. I find them so much easier to use than the fiddly stretch food wraps.
Most sponges and dish brushes are made from plastics but there are a few alternatives out there that I know you will love. One of the best swaps I have made in the past year is swapping the tragic plastic dish sponges to the EcoCoconut coconut scourers. I love this product! Made from coconut husk, this donut shaped scrubber will last you many months. It is soft enough to use on any dishes, easy to clean, durable and once you are finished with it, it can simply be buried in the ground as it will break down back into the earth. Super affordable and it comes in a pack of 2.
Another wonderful plastic alternative is bamboo cleaning brushes. Some brands come with interchangeable brush heads so once they have reached the end of their life, the head can be swapped out without the need to discard the whole product. Seed & Sprout have a wonderful bamboo brush set, meeting all your cleaning brush needs.
No more plastic straws! There are some great options on the market. My personal favourite plastic straw alternative is stainless steel. They are easy to clean, unbreakable and will last decades! If you use these for thicker drinks such as smoothies, make sure you purchase smoothie straws which have a wider opening.
If you have small children, avoid glass straws as they will be broken before the week is done. You may also want an alternative to stainless steel straws for young children as they can be a safety concern due to their rigidity. Little Mashies has wonderful silicone straws on the market which are suitable for young children. They are BPA free, soft, durable, and thick enough for smoothies. Other options are bamboo, paper, and wheat straws – paper and wheat straws being suitable for an eco friendly party situation without high cost.
We need to move away from the plastic wrapped food and start becoming familiar with our local staple stores. These are shops where you can take your containers, produce bags and jars to refill them, eliminating the need for packaging. These types of stores are gaining popularity and offer a wide range of food products such as pasta, flours, dried fruits and spices.
A space saving and eco friendly change you can make is implementing the Here & After spice jars into your home, eliminating the need for plastic, single use jars. They are glass, functional and help to minimise clutter, as they are magnetic and can attach to your fridge or a steel wall plate. Simply fill up the jars with your most used spices and they will stay fresh and accessible and look great too!
If you have children, you will know how many cups, plates and bowls can be broken over the years! Many choose to use plastic for this reason but if you are after a more sustainable option, consider purchasing stainless steel. Stainless steel is more eco friendly than plastic and more durable than bamboo alternatives. A good set of cups and plates will last for decades as they are indestructible. They are easy to clean and do not absorb or harbour flavours and smells from food.
If you have younger children, the Lion & Lady stainless steel bottles are a must! Not only are they safer and more durable than standard baby bottles, but they convert into a sippy cup and then cup with silicone straw as the child grows. They even have a lid so you can use the cup as a snack container or safely freeze and store breast milk! One bottle, multiple uses!
Ever Eco stainless steel drinking cup set come in a pack of 4 and are perfect for home use or take them with you for picnics or camping.
Although some of these switches may have a higher upfront cost, they are products that will outlast any plastic alternative and you will forget there was ever another (less sustainable) option. Purchase well, and you will only have to purchase once.
]]>The first step towards a more eco-friendly grocery shop is to BYO bags. Plastic bags have been banned in most Australian states for some time now, but did you know that so-called ‘green’ bags on sale in major supermarkets are actually made with a plastic that can take hundreds of years to decompose?
At Here & After, we’re proud to offer a range of shopping bags that have bona fide sustainability credentials. You’ll find bags that are made from organic cotton and are specifically designed to pack and store fruit, vegetables, and other fresh foods. Our sustainable produce bags are highly durable and are even machine washable, meaning they’ll be your grocery go-to for years to come.
It’s probably a slogan you’ve heard before, but ‘shopping the perimeter’ can help you and your family avoid overly processed packaged foods that are typically displayed within the central aisles of a grocery store. Processed foods can have a heavy carbon footprint, whether that’s due to involving imported ingredients, using plastic packaging, or the inclusion of environmentally damaging components such as palm oil.
By sticking to the perimeter of your local grocery store, your shop can concentrate on seasonal fruits and vegetables, responsibly sourced meat and seafood, whole grains, legumes, nuts and other nutrient-rich fresh foods. Eating less meat and opting for plant-based ingredients is also one of the most effective ways to reduce your environmental impact.
Shopping sustainably means knowing what type of practices your money supports. By becoming familiar with food labels, you can look for appropriate certifications and logos that may indicate whether a product is organic, non-GMO, fair trade, safe-catch, Australian made, and so forth. Understanding labels is an important part of making more conscious choices as a consumer. Check out Food Standards Australia New Zealand if you’d like to learn more about product labeling.
Every year, Australians waste a whopping 7.3 million tonnes of food! This wastage equates to about 300kg per person, and food accounts for a large volume of our country’s greenhouse gas emissions. By planning our meals in advance, we can each do our part to prevent food wastage. Having a weekly meal plan in mind also takes the guesswork out of writing your grocery list.
It sounds simple, but checking your fridge and pantry to see what ingredients you already have on hand will mean you avoid unnecessary purchases. Buying nuts, oats, legumes and other such ingredients in bulk is another great way to avoid waste and save money. Many local health food stores will even let you bring your own jars and containers from home, for you to shop in bulk your way! Not only will the planet thank you - your wallet will too!
Remember that cost doesn’t only relate to the price you’ll pay at the check-out. If the environmental cost of our groceries were taken into account, what purchases would you feel comfortable making? When comparing brands, it’s worthwhile evaluating factors such as where your product was made and how it was packaged.
For example, choosing boxed pasta made from Australian wheat would be more of an eco-friendly choice, when compared to a plastic packed pasta made abroad. Choose locally produced, seasonal foods wherever possible. While it’s important to strive for progress rather than perfection, our small everyday decisions can really make a positive difference for the planet!
How does your family choose to shop sustainably? Share your thoughts with the community online at Here & After 🌿
]]>The trusty old reusable drink bottle and coffee cup – there are so many amazing brands out there who make amazing leak proof (and shatter proof) products. Avoid glass or ceramics as the last thing you want is cleaning up shattered drinking vessels and contents from the bottom of your bag. Brands that I personally use and love are Frank Green and Seed & Sprout. I use the Seed & Sprout insulated flask daily as it can be used for hot or cold drinks – one product, multiple uses!
This one product will save you reaching for the plastic forks and knives when you are grabbing a meal on the go. Make your own set or check out the Here & After brand set – it comes in a handy canvas zipper case and contains a straw and straw cleaner, chopsticks, a fork, knife, and spoon. I love to keep a reusable cloth wipe in there too for cleaning up any mess. These sets are great for work too! If you have kids, consider popping a few coloured pencils and a piece of paper in the case too to keep them busy while you are eating out. Remember to pop this is your checked luggage if you are flying anywhere or it will be confiscated from your hand luggage.
Cloth wipes are fantastic for car or plane trips, especially when you have messy eaters with you! Dampen them before you leave and pop them into a wetbag or ziplock bag. They are much more effective to use than disposable wipes and when you get to your destination, give them a rinse (or a wash if you have access to a washing machine) and they will be ready for the next adventure. Baby and antibacterial wipes are a massive contributor to landfill and waterways blockages, so it’s best to avoid contributing to this ever-growing environmental problem when possible.
I always bring a stainless-steel lunch box with us when we travel. Whenever we stop for food, our kids will often have leftovers, get back in the car and report that they are hungry 20 mins later. Instead of letting the bought food go to waste OR having to ask for a plastic takeaway container, we have ours on hand. Once we are back in the car, we have the rest of the food to snack on. Before we head out for the day also, we will fill these with food to prevent us from having to buy single serve snacks throughout the day.
If you are heading out and getting back to nature, remember the principle “take only photos, leave only footprints” and make sure you have all you need that will withstand the rough handling and constant use of your camping equipment. Stainless steel plates and cups are a must! They are indestructible and you will have them for years to come.
We have found the Strucket is the perfect camping addition – whether you are washing down equipment, washing the dishes, or cleaning dirty feet, the Strucket will help you get the job done. To make dinner time easier and to ensure minimal waste is generated, pre-cook your meals before you go so you only need to reheat them on the day. No waste, no long meal preparation time, less washing up and more time to enjoy nature!
]]>Single-use plastic bags have been banned in Australia for several years. However, did you know that many so-called ‘green bags’ continue to be made from unsustainable materials? Polypropylene is a type of plastic commonly found in ‘green bags’ sold at major supermarkets, and in fact, polypropylene requires more energy to produce than single-use plastics!
If you’re looking for a reusable shopping bag that is truly sustainable and can last the test of time, consider a farmers market bag set. These lightweight, durable shopping bags are made from certified organic cotton, and are available in 14 different shapes and sizes. As a certified organic product, you can rest assured that these reusable bags are made without toxic bleaches, dyes, and other chemicals typically found in textiles.
Looking for other ways to reduce your use of plastic and keep your groceries fresh? Check out these award-winning reusable fruit and veggie bags and zero-waste bread bags online.
Plastic cling wraps end up in landfill and can even release toxic chemicals into our environment. Reusable silicone food wraps are a great way to reduce your plastic usage, and switch to a more sustainable alternative. At Here & After, we’re proud to offer a variety of reusable food storage solutions.
To store fruit, salad, vegetables or meat, opt for silicone food pouches. With a leak-free and airtight design, these pouches are also perfect for storing liquids such as soups and smoothies. To cover your leftovers, try reusable stretch bowl covers. Made from food grade silicone, these covers can also be used to seal drinks, cans, and jars. Silicone is derived from sand, meaning it’s non-toxic, BPA free, and can be safely placed in your microwave or dishwasher.
Packing the kids’ lunchboxes? These easy to clean reusable sandwich wraps are specifically designed to keep lunchtime goodies freshly sealed - they’re even made from recycled bottles!
It’s estimated that over 373 million plastic water bottles end up in landfills every year! Cleanup Australia Day also reports that plastic bottles are among the ten most common rubbish items discarded around our communities. Fortunately, we can all do our part to make a positive change!
At Here & After, we have a wide range of reusable drinking bottles available for you and your family. Whether you’re after a stainless steel water bottle, an insulated flask for hot beverages, or even a purpose designed smoothie cup, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t forget our range of reusable feeding bottles for your little ones. Stainless steel feeding bottles are known to be anti-bacterial and do not shed microplastics - making them a safe and sustainable choice.
Common kitchen sponges are made from plastic and synthetic fibres that are not biodegradable. What’s more, studies show that most kitchen sponges are a hotbed for bacteria, and need to be replaced weekly in order to be hygienic, safe and effective. Thankfully, there is a more sustainable alternative.
Eco-friendly cleaning products, such as these scourers made from responsibly farmed coconut husks, are becoming increasingly popular. Suitable for use in your kitchen or bathroom, coconut based cleaning products are free from toxic chemicals and plastics. These products are also naturally antibacterial, highly durable, and completely biodegradable.
Need durable kitchenware that’s easy to clean, plastic-free, and virtually indestructible? Check out our stainless steel divided plate - it’s perfect for children's meals, and can be used again and again!
Did you know that the average plastic toothbrush will take at least 1,000 years to decompose? To prevent more plastic from ending up in landfill, give a bamboo toothbrush a go! Bamboo is a naturally renewable resource, and the average bamboo toothbrush only takes 5 years to fully biodegrade.
Bamboo toothbrushes can also be upcycled when they’re no longer suitable for dental hygiene. Use your old bamboo toothbrush to clean jewellery, or use the handle as a plant label and marker in your garden. Rest assured that you can safely add the handle into your compost bin, where it will fully break down into organic matter.
Make another simple switch in your bathroom, and choose organic hand sanitiser. Produced without nasty chemicals but just as effective, lavender sanitiser is perfect for keeping your family’s hands squeaky clean, and can even be used as an air freshener or natural deodorant!
Feeling empowered in your journey towards eco-friendly living is as easy as making one small change at a time. For more tips, follow Here & After on our socials.
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