Must See Documentaries on Sustainability

If you are interested in educating yourself about how the fashion industry is affecting people and the environment, sustainable documentaries are a great place to start. The repercussions of mass manufacturing and disposable clothing are becoming harder and harder to ignore. However, because most of the clothing Americans and westernized countries are buying is made overseas, the immediate effects are easier to overlook. 

From forced labor and unsafe working conditions to devastating environmental destruction, there is a price to pay for every piece of clothing made and not just the one on the price tag. The majority of labor workers overseas in countries like Bangladesh are paid so little that most live in poverty. They often face abuse and poor working conditions on a daily basis despite working for some of the largest and most profitable companies in the world. 

To make matters worse, our planet is also suffering. In America alone, we dispose of 11 million tons of textile waste per year. Globally, we consume about 80 billion new pieces of clothing every year. With the world’s consumption rising at an alarming rate and renewable resources becoming increasingly scarce, our planet is suffering and on the brink of irreversible damage. While this all sounds scary, hope is not lost but this is why it’s so important to educate yourself and be aware of the effects of your daily decisions. It is through awareness that we can make better choices.

This list of 11 sustainable documentaries will provide insight into the ways our consumption habits, especially our shopping habits, can change the world for better or for worse.

SUSTAINABLE FASHION DOCUMENTARIES

1) True Cost

Watch the trailer: True Cost Trailer

If you are unfamiliar with the 2013 Rana Plaza collapse in Bangladesh that resulted in over 1,000 casualties, you need to watch True Cost.

This documentary exposes the corrupt infrastructure that allowed abuse of labor workers, neglect for their working conditions, and the health issues caused by using genetically modified materials.

While the westernized countries focus on finding the latest fashion trends, the families featured struggle to feed their families while working nearly 90 hours a week.

This documentary is eye-opening and will shift how you evaluate the true cost of your clothes.

Watch it: Amazon, Tubi

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2) Fashionscapes: A Living Wage

Watch the trailer: Fashionscapes: A Living Wage Trailer

From the director of True Cost, Andrew Morgan, and co-founder of Eco-Age Olivia Firth, this documentary explores the activists and laborers holding the fashion industry accountable for allowing poverty-level wages.

Most of the men and women making the clothes sold by popular fast fashion brands are paid below a living wage despite companies raising prices and selling more clothes than ever.

This documentary allows women who have experienced injustice and poverty firsthand from working in the fashion supply chain to share their stories of what change has and has not been made, despite the global outcry and company policies set in place.

Watch it: Youtube

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3) The Machinists

Watch the trailer: The Machinists Trailer

Follow the story of three female garment workers in Bangladesh who share the struggles of daily life working in factories trying to provide for their families.

They often work unlawful long hours or risk facing the reprimands of their supervisors.

Since they are the breadwinners of their families, most workers are forced into a cycle of abuse and remain in poverty due to being paid lower than a living wage. The film also features the man working to enforce a trade union in Bangladesh, where many fast fashion brands manufacture their clothes. The Machinists gives viewers insight into what it means to work in a sweatshop where forced overtime, unsafe working conditions, and pay garnishment is normalized.

Watch it: Youtube

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4) UDITA (Arise)

Watch the trailer: UDITA Trailer

Covering five years in Bangladesh sweatshops, UDITA is a documentary that reveals the challenges female garment workers face as they fight for freedom, against industry oppression, and for a better life for themselves and the generations to come.

This film showcases stories of hope and strength but also a very real look behind the scenes at what it means to be a Bangladeshi woman trying to survive and leave their village a better place for their children.

Watch it: Youtube

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5) Traceable

Watch the trailer: Traceable Trailer

In an effort to connect the dots between the clothes we wear and the people who make them, Traceable follows fashion designer Laura Siegel’s journey across India to produce her own clothing collection.

Through her own experience, this documentary showcases how communities are affected by the products we consume and what our dollars support when we make disposable and impulsive purchases.

Traceable also explores what “luxury” fashion really means and how clear transparency is important to be upheld throughout the supply chain so that consumers can make better-educated choices about the products they buy.

Watch it: Amazon

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6) The Next Black

Watch the trailer: The Next Black Trailer

What’s next in the future of fashion? Is there hope for a world that doesn’t treat garment workers as disposable as the clothes they make? The Next Black is uncovering what the future of clothing looks like and how we can innovate the fashion industry to be more sustainable. This documentary gives us hope that with industry leaders taking action and believing in a sustainable business model there can be a world where our clothes don’t destroy our planet.

Watch it: Youtube

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7) RiverBlue

Watch the trailer: RiverBlue Trailer

Have you thought about how much water goes into making our clothes? Or what happens to the water after it’s been used in the dyeing and production process? RiverBlue examines the world’s most polluted rivers and how the fashion industry continues to contaminate our planet’s most vital resource to keep up with the demands of clothing companies.

Xintang, China is the denim capital of the world and due to the toxic runoff from the dyeing process, Pearl River is now indigo blue due to contamination, which is what inspired the name of the film. RiverBlue is narrated by Jason Priestley who is an advocate for water conservancy and a well-known actor and director.

Watch it: Vimeo

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SUSTAINABILITY DOCUMENTARIES

8) Minimalism: A Documentary About The Important Things

Watch the trailer: Minimalism Trailer

Minimalism: A Documentary About The Important Things discusses what it means to consume less and choose to live a more meaningful lifestyle that doesn’t revolve around the latest trends and gadgets.

Josh and Ryan are two friends who wanted to explore life outside the corporate ladder and see what life would be like if they went back to basics.

Included in this award-winning documentary are interviews with people from a variety of backgrounds that have made the transition to living with less and how it has enriched their lives. This is an inspiring watch if you feel ready to pursue a lifestyle that is free from the mentality that stuff will make us happy.

Watch it: Amazon, Vimeo

The Minimalists' follow-up documentary Less Is Now is currently streaming on Netflix.

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9) A Plastic Ocean

Watch the trailer: A Plastic Ocean Trailer

Our planet has a major plastic problem which is explored in A Plastic Ocean. The destruction caused by plastic in all environments around the world spares no species. From the ocean life getting tangled in it, the birds eating it to our food being grown on piles of it, plastic pollution is a problem in every corner of the world. Animals are unable to escape the pollution in their natural habitats because of the rate our society utilizes plastic products. This film will hopefully inspire you to re-evaluate the role plastic has in your lifestyle.

Watch it: Amazon

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10) Kiss The Ground

Watch the trailer: Kiss The Ground Trailer

A lot of documentaries focus on the problem and raising awareness, which has its benefits, but Kiss The Ground also explores possible solutions for healing our planet. After years of tiling, contamination, and erosion of the Earth’s lands, this film uncovers what may be the secret to fighting climate change. By using soil as the focus for regeneration efforts and innovative agricultural farming techniques, experts believe our planet has a chance to be revived if we provide it with the right care.

Actor and activist Woody Harrelson narrates this hopeful documentary that not only raises awareness but also provides sustainable solutions to our most pressing climate issues.

Watch it: Netflix

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11) Our Planet

Watch the trailer: Our Planet Trailer

Our Planet is an Emmy award-winning nature documentary series that brings you into the natural habitats of animals in the sky, on land, and under the sea in a way you’ve never seen before.

It is as informative as it is stunning to watch and serves as a reminder that Earth is not just our home but for many other species, too. Each 45-minute episode focuses on a different part of the planet’s ecosystem and the conservation issues that plague it.

This series also shows the animals that are at risk of extinction if we don’t change our habits and begin to restore the delicate balance among the world’s ecosystems.

This documentary talks less about sustainability compared to the other films on this list but is a reminder of the role we play in the environment and showcases the beautiful world we live in that needs our help.

Watch it: Netflix

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About the Author

Karmen Flores is a creative entrepreneur based in Michigan. Karmen shares all about plant-based and sustainable, intentional living on her blog Karmen Collective. From recommendations for all things plant-based to tips for living more sustainably, Karmen makes living with intention less intimidating and more accessible. You can connect with Karmen on Instagram @karmencollective and at www.karmencollective.com.

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ARE ESSENTIAL OILS ACTUALLY SUSTAINABLE? 

When I switched to a more sustainable, non-toxic lifestyle, I suddenly realized how popular essential oils and aromatherapy were! 

Everywhere, I would find recipes to make my own cleaning products using essential oils. Many advocates of natural, healthy living would promote products formulated with these precious plant essences that smell oh-so-good. 

Essential oils are seen as a healthier and more sustainable alternative to conventional, chemical-laden products. But are they really that sustainable? 

In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the sustainability of essential oils and how to use them in a more eco-friendly way! 

WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS? 

According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, essential oils are “concentrated plant extracts that retain the natural smell and flavor of their source”. 

They can be derived from thousands of plant species, from different flowers to fruits and trees. In the United States, the most popular (by volume) are orange, peppermint, eucalyptus, lemon, clove, and frankincense essential oils. 

Essential oils are extremely popular nowadays all around the world. However, they have actually been used for a very long time in a wide range of different cultures! 

Evidence shows that they were already used in ancient India, Egypt, and Persia several thousand years ago. The Greeks and Romans are also known to have traded odoriferous oils and ointments with the countries of the Orient. 

Later, during the 11th century A.D., the Arabs discovered how to extract essential oils from plants using steam distillation. This new knowledge and technique quickly spread to Europe during the Middle Ages where essential oils became very widely used and incorporated into remedies.  

By the 18th century, about 100 essential oils had been introduced, but it was not until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that chemists really began to understand their chemical nature. As a result, we saw a massive increase in the production of essential oils. 

Since then, they have mainly been used as odorants (for instance, in perfumes and cosmetics), flavors (in food and beverages), and pharmaceuticals (in dental products and medicines). 

Essential oils are believed to have powerful antibacterial, antiviral, calming, and antidepressant properties. Many are also used for boosting immunity and energy levels, helping digestion, alleviating pain, and reducing stress. 

In 2022, the global essential oil market was valued at about $21.8 billion, and it is anticipated to grow at a rate of 7.9% per year from 2023 to 2030. France is the world’s largest exporter of essential oils, followed by the United States. 

HOW BAD ARE ESSENTIAL OILS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT? 

To understand how sustainable essential oils are, we first need to know how they are produced. 

Steam distillation is the most popular method for extracting essential oils from plants. Steam is injected into the plant to release the aroma molecules, converting them into a vapor. The vapor is then condensed back into a liquid, ready to be poured into small bottles. This method is the most cost-effective way to produce essential oils, which is why it is so widely used today. 

Other methods are used for certain essential oils such as solvent extraction, maceration, mechanical pressing, or enfleurage (extracting the oil by using fat). 

But no matter how the essential oils are extracted, we first need to harvest flowers, fruits, or trees. These are either farmed in controlled environments, or wild-harvested in nature. 

And here is the main issue: we need enormous quantities of plants to produce the tiniest amount of essential oil. 

Producing essential oils is incredibly resource-intensive

For most essential oils, hundreds of pounds of plant material are needed to make a single bottle! To illustrate a bit more, to produce a single pound of essential oil, we need: 

• 10,000 pounds of rose petals

• 1,500 lemons

• 250 pounds of lavender

• 6,000 pounds of melissa plants 

• 250 pounds of rosemary leaves 

• 50 pounds of eucalyptus leaves

• 4 million jasmine buds

All essential oils are different, and some are more resource-intensive than others. For instance, certain oils are more difficult to extract from the plant, and some plants provide small yields. 

The weather can also impact how much we can extract from the plant from year to year, and thus, we may need more or less plant material to produce one pound of essential oil. 

Growing all these plants has a significant environmental impact in itself. The constant planting and harvesting affect the soil quality, and some essential oils are derived from resins, which means that trees have to be cut down to harvest the sap. So the production of essential oils can lead to deforestation. 

What’s more, the majority of brands selling essential oils source their raw materials from huge farms where pesticide usage is very common to increase yield and productivity. 

Huge quantities of water are also required to grow all the plants. Even the extraction process is very resource-intensive, and some methods use large amounts of water and energy to extract the oils. 

For example, to produce rose essential oil, roses have to go through a process called water distillation. The flowers are boiled in water, and after the water cools down, everything is condensed and separated. This way of obtaining essential oils is incredibly water-intensive!  

Overharvesting and endangered plant species 

Large, corporate farming is extremely common in the essential oil industry. These huge companies often chop down forests or convert arable lands into monoculture farming lands to grow a single plant. They usually don’t care about the environment, and their unethical and unsustainable practices often endanger local ecosystems. 

Fortunately, this is not the only way to harvest plants to produce essential oils. Wild harvesting is also very common, but it comes with its own downsides as well. 

A commonly accepted rule by harvesting communities is that they should not harvest more than 10% of any wild crop during a single harvesting session. However, many companies disregard this rule, and since there is no regulation, overharvesting is prevalent and threatening many plant species.

The production of frankincense essential oil, which is derived from tree sap, is a great example of overharvesting. Because of the rising global demand, the trees are often tapped year-round rather than seasonally, and harvesters are making more cuts per tree to extract as much sap as possible. These unsustainable harvesting methods weaken the trees, making them eventually die. As a result, these ancient forests are slowly disappearing.

Another issue is that many essential oils come from plants that are listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. For instance, rosewood and atlas cedarwood, two popular essential oils, are listed as endangered species. 

Listed as vulnerable, sandalwood’s population is also decreasing mainly because of illegal harvesting and overexploitation. In India and Indonesia, sandalwood has been so overharvested that it nearly went extinct! 

So the increased demand for essential oils is putting a strain on certain plant species. Overharvesting plants, particularly those that are on the threatened species list, can eventually lead to the extinction of many of them. 

And when a species goes extinct, there can be many ripple effects on the local communities and ecosystems! 

Other environmental issues

Many other factors can make essential oils even less sustainable. For instance, many plants are grown in a controlled environment, which means that a lot of energy is usually used to control the temperature and humidity levels. 

We also need to take into account the carbon emissions generated during the transportation process of essential oils all around the world. 

Another thing worth mentioning is that most essential oils are very flammable. Because of that, some cities require us to throw their glass bottles in the trash instead of recycling them (they are considered household hazardous waste). The plastic bottle caps and drop dispensers also end up in a landfill. 

Finally, many essential oils are toxic to aquatic life, and they can negatively impact marine ecosystems if they are dumped down the drain or if they somehow end up in waterways. They can also be toxic to other animals. For instance, while lavender essential oil is safe for dogs when it is diluted, it should never be used around cats as it is toxic to them!

8 TIPS TO HAVE A (MORE) SUSTAINABLE ESSENTIAL OIL COLLECTION

While most essential oils are far from sustainable, it is impossible to get everyone to stop using them altogether. And in some situations, essential oils can actually be an eco-friendly option! 

For instance, cleaning your home with a non-toxic, essential oil-based cleaner is a lot more sustainable (and healthier) than if you used a toxic, chemical-laden cleaner that would pollute the air and waterways. Another example is perfume formulated with essential oils instead of harmful, synthetic fragrances. 

Also, if essential oils are helping you improve your health or reduce stress, by no means you should stop using them (as long as you use them safely). 

The key is to use them in a mindful and sustainable way. To help you do that, here are our top tips to have a more eco-friendly essential oil collection! 

Less is more

Sometimes, we can go overboard with buying essential oils, so make sure you do not buy too many. Keep track of the ones you have, and try not to buy any more before you have used them up.  

Also, avoid purchasing them in bundles because you might end up not using all of them. Always think about whether you really need the ones you intend to buy, and try not to waste them: do not use ten drops of essential oil when you know that one or two is enough. 

Remember that with essential oils, less is more. They are precious resources that we should not over-consume. 

Buy more sustainable essential oils

Before you buy new essential oils, research whether the plant species are on the Red List of Threatened Species (you can do a quick search on the website). If they are endangered or even vulnerable, refrain from purchasing them. 

Because they are so rare, endangered species are often obtained through illegal trade, and supporting this may lead to their extinction. Also, avoid purchasing the more resource-intensive ones, such as rose, jasmine, or lemon balm essential oils. 

Many essential oils have similar constituents and benefits, so see if you can choose ones that are a lot less scarce and resource-intensive.  

Prefer essential oils from wild-harvested plants produced according to ethical harvesting guidelines that do not threaten the species’ survival. 

Also, try to buy essential oils that are USDA-certified organic, or at least, ones that come from plants that are native to the land they are grown on. Non-native plants may need chemicals and artificial climate control as well as more water to grow in a foreign environment. 

Buy from transparent, sustainable brands

Before you purchase any essential oil, always research how sustainable and ethical the brand is. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you are not sure about a company. 

What is the brand doing to limit its environmental impact? Does it sell products from endangered or overharvested plants? Are its harvesters and distillers following sustainable practices? 

Also, check if the brand publishes Material Safety Data Sheets for its essential oils. These provide a chemical breakdown of the composition of the essential oil, and they can help you use them safely and sustainably. 

In general, avoid buying essential oils from your grocery store, and instead, support sustainable brands that sell high-quality products. While these may be more expensive, their products will be more eco-friendly and 100% pure. 

Be sure to read our sustainable essential oil shopping guide if you are looking for a trustworthy, eco-friendly brand to buy your essential oils from! 

Dilute your essential oils

To make your essential oils last longer, dilute them in carrier oils, like coconut or jojoba oil. It is actually always recommended to do so! 

Most essential oils should not be applied directly to the skin, and using them too frequently or without reducing their potency with a carrier oil can lead to sensitization.

So diluting them is safer, more economical, and more sustainable, all at the same time! 

Learn more about how to use each essential oil

As we saw earlier, many essential oils are toxic to marine life. So before you use them in your bath or pour them down the drain, make sure that you can actually do that. Similarly, if you have pets, research whether you can use your essential oils around them. 

And of course, read about how to use them safely: are you allowed to put them onto your skin? How should you use them to avoid any harmful side effects? 

Everything should be written in the Material Safety Data Sheets provided with the essential oils. If you cannot find anything, a quick Google search should do the trick! 

Take care of your essential oils

Essential oils have a shelf life, usually ranging from 1 to 6 years. So try to use them all up before they expire to avoid waste. 

Also, store them in a dark, cool place to prevent them from becoming rancid. If you have some expired essential oils, you can safely use them in cleaning products. 

Dispose of them responsibly

When your essential oil bottles are empty, always research how to dispose of them in your local area. Many places do not recycle bottles that contained flammable products, but some do. So check with your local waste-management facility and follow its recommendations. 

If you like being creative, find ways to reuse essential oil bottles! Some brands also take them back and recycle them. 

Swap essential oils for hydrosols or CO2s

During the steam distillation process, the essential oil is extracted alongside a larger amount of hydrosol. Hydrosols are aromatic waters (one example is rose water) with similar therapeutic properties to their essential oil counterparts, but they are more sustainable as we produce a lot more hydrosol (compared to essential oil) for a given quantity of plant material. 

Another option is to swap essential oils for CO2s. These are plant essences extracted from the plant using carbon dioxide as a solvent to dissolve materials. This extraction method is the most efficient as it yields the most oil per pound of plant material! 

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CONCLUSION 

Producing essential oils causes many environmental issues. Enormous quantities of plant material are needed to create a single drop, and many essential oils come from plant species that are overharvested, or worse, endangered. 

But it does not mean we should stop using them altogether! We can make better choices and choose more eco-friendly essential oils. Plus, there are many other tips we can follow to have a more sustainable essential oil collection. 

That way, we can enjoy these precious plant essences without harming the planet! 

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About the Author

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle. She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.

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The Best Sustainable Plant-Based & Vegan Milks

Most of us now know that drinking plant-based milk is generally more sustainable than dairy milk. However, with so many different options available, it’s important to know what to look for in plant-based milk. Not all plant-based milk is good for us or the planet, thanks to additives, artificial ingredients, unsustainable sourcing, or plastic packaging. Below we’ll cover how to find healthy and sustainable plant-based milk, as well as some of the best plant-based milk brands. 

Is Plant-Based Milk Sustainable?

All plant-based milk is more sustainable than dairy. One liter of cow’s milk uses significantly more water, and land, as well as produces more greenhouse gas than one liter of plant-based milk. 

While plant-based milk is more sustainable, just how sustainable will greatly depend on the ingredients and the production methods used. Some non-dairy milk uses very little water, while others emit less greenhouse gas or are easier to ethically source. 

Is Plant-Based Milk Good for you? 

Plant-based milk is generally good for you, as long as you pay attention to the ingredients. If you’re drinking plant-based milk to replace specific nutrients in dairy milk, you won’t be very successful. 

The cleanest, organic plant-based milk only contains water and the primary ingredient, so it won’t be fortified with additional vitamins and minerals found in dairy milk. If you choose fortified plant milk, certain ingredients may block your body's ability to absorb those nutrients. 

In general, it’s healthiest to choose plant-based milk with minimal ingredients and no artificial additives, and use other food or supplements to replace any nutrients naturally found in dairy. 

What’s the Least and Most Sustainable Milk Alternative? 

When determining which nut milk (or plant-based milk) is the most and least sustainable, there are a few different factors that need to be taken into consideration. Below we’ll break down the most common types of plant-based milk and how sustainable they are. 

Oat Milk: Oat milk could be considered the most sustainable plant-based milk overall. It’s also become one of the most popular non-dairy milk options due to its creamy consistency and rich flavor. Oats are a nutritious, a low-input crop. That being said, oats are commonly mass-produced in an unsustainable way and contain a glyphosate-based herbicide that has been linked to cancer. Look for small brands that use certified glyphosate-free oats, as well as organic and non-GMO oats. 

Almond Milk: Almond milk has long been one of the most popular kinds of nut milk, but it’s gotten a bad rap lately due to its water usage. Almond milk is not worse for the environment than dairy milk, and overall, it is a sustainable milk alternative. Almond milk has some of the lowest greenhouse gas emissions and requires very little land to grow. However, almond trees do require a significant amount of water and are mostly grown in California, a state prone to droughts. Local almond farmers have taken action over the last few years to reduce water usage, but it’s always best to look for organic almonds that are grown on sustainable farms in small batches. 

Soy Milk: Soy milk is commonly considered one of the most sustainable, and cleanest plant-based milk options. Soy milk requires very little water to produce, though it does require a higher amount of emissions. That being said, soy milk is largely mass-produced in an unsustainable way. It’s harder to find non-GMO soy on the market, and its production has caused deforestation in the Amazon and throughout South America. If you want to drink soy milk, look for brands that don’t source their soy from South America and that use organic, non-GMO soybeans. 

Rice Milk: As far as plant-based milk goes, rice milk isn’t the most sustainable or nutritious. Rice production has some of the highest, if not the highest, greenhouse gas emissions, and requires a large amount of water to grow. Rice is grown in water and those paddies contribute to water pollution and emit methane gas. Of all the non-dairy milk options, you may want to skip this one. 

Coconut Milk: Coconut milk is another popular milk alternative, with high nutritional benefits. If you’re wondering if coconut milk is sustainable, it depends on where you get it from. Coconuts are in such high demand that coconut production now commonly involves exploitative labor including animal cruelty, where monkeys and other animals are forced to help harvest coconuts. Coconut farms contribute to deforestation in the rainforest, particularly in Indonesia. Look for small brands that are ideally Fair-trade certified or are transparent about how they source their coconuts.  

Seed Milk: Seed milk, such as hemp, flax, and chia milk, has become more commonly available and offers higher nutritional benefits, like protein and fiber. These plants require very little water to grow and aren’t commonly mass-produced. Another sustainable seed milk that has recently become more widely available is sesame milk. This milk is a wonderful sustainable option, as sesame plants require very little water, are self-pollinating, drought-resistant, and don’t need pesticides. 

Pea Milk: Pea milk is a popular choice for those looking for higher protein milk. It’s also a sustainable choice, as it has lower emissions, and uses less fertilizer and water to produce when compared to other plant-based milk. That being said, many pea milk options on the market today are filled with additional ingredients and additives that aren’t very good for us. 

Additional Nut Milk Options: There are numerous nut milk options available today, with varying degrees of sustainability and different taste profiles. 

• Cashew Milk: Widely available, it requires less water than almond milk with a similar taste. Cashew production often involves exploitative labor, so look for cashews that are fair trade or were produced transparently and ethically. 

• Hazelnut Milk: This beloved nut makes a great milk alternative. It’s a very sustainable nut milk — produced in the Pacific Northwest, in a naturally moist environment, and it doesn’t require bees for pollination. 

• Pistachio Milk: Less common, but becoming more popular, pistachio milk is a relatively nutritious nut milk that uses less water than almonds. It has relatively low greenhouse gas emissions as well. 

• Macadamia Milk: Last but not least, macadamia milk is a creamy milk alternative that also requires less water than almonds. It’s important to choose organic, non-GMO options, however, as macadamia nuts are grown in areas that commonly experience water shortages. 

What to Look for From Sustainable Non-Dairy Milk Brands: 

Some ingredients to look for when choosing a sustainable plant-based milk are: 

• Minimal Ingredients/ No Artificial Ingredients

• Organic Certified Ingredients

• Ethical/Sustainable Sourcing

• Recyclable and Plastic-free Packaging

• Fair Trade Production

When it comes to our health, much of the plant-based milk available on the market today contains processed and artificial ingredients. While many of these ingredients are used as emulsifiers, stabilizers, and thickeners, some have been linked to cancer, while others may impact our digestion and skin. Ultimately, we just don’t know how these additives will affect us in the long run. 

If you’re looking for truly sustainable non-dairy milk, avoid the following ingredients: 

• Added sugar or artificial sweeteners

• Added oils 

• Natural Flavors

• Carrageenan

• Gums (Guar gum, Xanthan gum, etc.)

• Lecithin

Now, Our Top 8 Favorite Sustainable Plant-Based Milk Brands:

1) Joi 

Price: Varies

Joi is an awesome sustainable non-dairy milk brand that sells plant milk concentrates.

You simply mix with water at home to create your non-dairy milk.

They have almond, cashew, oat, and hazelnut milk concentrates available.

Joi’s products are certified non-GMO, and organic, with no added ingredients. 

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2) Three Trees

Price: $7.99 

Three Trees produces some of the healthiest, creamiest, vegan milk around. Here you’ll find almond milk (unsweetened or naturally sweetened vanilla), sesame milk, oat milk, and pistachio milk. You won’t find any added ingredients or sweeteners and each milk comes in a bottle made from 100% recycled plastic. 

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3) Califia Farms

Price: $5.99-$6.49 

Califia Farms has produced sustainable vegan milk for years but they just launched a line of certified organic oat milk and almond milk with just 3 ingredients.

The organic line contains no additives and a creamy texture.

Califia Farms publishes an annual sustainability report so you can easily ensure this brand aligns with your values. 

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4) Malk

Price: $5.99

Malk makes certified organic glyphosate-free oat and almond milk available with unsweetened or sweetened vanilla and chocolate.

With only 3-5 natural ingredients, at Malk, you’ll never find added oils, fillers, or gums.

Each bottle is also recyclable. 

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5) Forager

Price: $6.49 

At Forager you’ll find a large selection of non-dairy products including cashew and oat milk.

Both kinds of vegan milk are certified organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free, with no added gums, fillers, or ingredients.

They use ethically sourced, hand-harvested cashews to produce their ultra-creamy vegan milk. 

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6) Elmhurst

Price: Varies

Elmhurst used to be a large family-owned dairy company but remade itself into a sustainable vegan milk producer. Here you’ll find almond, cashew, oat, walnut, and hazelnut milk.

All of their non-dairy products are non-GMO verified and don’t contain artificial flavors, gluten, or carrageenan. Plus, you can purchase variety packs or bundled options and each shelf-stable milk comes in recyclable packaging. 

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7) Eden Soy

Price: $3.91+ 

If you’re a soy milk lover, check out Eden Soy.

Their non-GMO, organic soy milk has been around for decades. You won’t find any artificial sugar or ingredients at Eden Soy. Their sustainably sourced soy milk comes in recyclable cartons, is shelf stable, and affordable. 

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8) New Barn Organics Almond Milk

Price: $59 per 6 pack

New Barn Organics uses organic almonds sustainably produced in small batches to make their certified organic almond milk. Non-GMO verified, their unsweetened or sweetened almond milk doesn’t contain any artificial ingredients. They also produce organic coconut milk, using fair labor production, but it does contain organic sunflower lecithin. 

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About the Author

Alicia Briggs is a writer & editor specializing in slow travel & sustainable living. She has been a full-time traveler since 2018 and runs her own blog, Learning the Local Way, where she covers responsible travel tips and guides.

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Image: Opposite Wall

Traditionally, wall art isn’t associated with sustainability. After all, making art requires creating something new, which often means relying on materials like paper, canvas, and paints—not to mention the shipping and global distribution methods that get art from the creator to the buyer. Many pieces of art are also mass-produced in warehouses, far from the original creator, then sold in chain stores like Target or Marshalls.

However, just like other home products, wall art is having a sustainable renaissance. From repurposed materials to ethical production, more sustainable wall art exists than ever before. But what makes a piece of art sustainable can vary greatly. Here’s what to watch for when seeking more sustainable wall art, plus a few tips and tricks for sourcing beautiful, eco-friendly decor you can feel good about.

What is Sustainable Wall Art?

There are many ways in which a piece of art can be sustainable (or not). For example, a painting could have an eco-friendly frame, but paint that’s toxic to the environment. Or, a photo could be printed on repurposed canvas, but packaged in large amounts of plastic. 

Sustainability in art is important because the industry is booming. Online art sales doubled between 2019 and 2020, and the industry only continues to grow, according to Artland Magazine. Despite the increase in sales—which correlates with a boost in consumption—digital artworks occupy an increasing portion of profits. Meanwhile, industry leaders have become more concerned with topics like sustainable travel, as well as the ecological impact of art festivals and events.

The bottom line? It’ll be hard to find a piece of art that meets every standard for sustainability. Here’s a look at what criteria to consider when buying art for your home, and how to decide which eco-friendly factors matter most to you.

Image: Opposite Wall

Art Materials

Companies committed to manufacturing sustainable wall art will pursue standards that verify their materials and mediums. For example, Opposite Wall is a wall art, wallpaper, and frame vendor committed to producing forest-friendly materials. Their posters are printed on paper certified by the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®), and their wooden frames are also certified. Another certification to watch for comes from the Sustainable Forest Initiative, or SFI. Art with this label has been verified by the SFI as using sustainably-harvested materials (primarily wood fibers) that foster conservation and promote smart climate solutions. 

Art production companies can also have their own, more localized sustainability initiatives. Artifact Uprising, a photo printing company based in Colorado, uses wood reclaimed from trees that have fallen due to beetle infestation. Clearing this wood for reuse allows new trees to grow and prevents healthy trees from being cut down for materials. Artifact Uprising uses the wood for creative wall art, including wood calendars and wood blocks as photo displays. They also use 100% post-consumer recycled paper in all of their photo prints. These reused materials also have unique character, such as blue streaks in the beetle pine, ensuring a truly unique, customized, and sustainable piece of wall art for your home.

Image: Photowall

Giving Back Initiatives

Aside from using eco-friendly materials, some art vendors go the extra mile by donating back to forestry and other climate initiatives. This is the case with Photowall. In addition to making every mural to order, this photo printing and mural company donates proceeds to Vi Agroforestry after every purchase. These donations support the planting of 5,000 trees and crops in South Africa. These efforts not only improve local climates through carbon capture, but also help local residents access healthy food while improving the quality of their lives through sustainable agriculture. 

Another way to give back through your art purchase is with Andy okay. This organization lets buyers choose which organizations they’d like to support with their purchase, including earth-friendly causes like PangeaSeed Foundation and World Wildlife Foundation. Not to mention the additional sustainability efforts of Andy okay, which include climate-neutral printing facilities and local production at your nearest facility (which cuts down the carbon footprint of distribution). Andy okay also utilizes corporate social responsibility practices at each facility, which includes LED lighting, recycling programs for ink, and other aspects of daily operations.

Additionally, if you’re looking for wall art beyond a painting or print, consider the Artist Plate Project by Artaware. This organization supports the Coalition for the Homeless, the nation’s oldest advocacy and direct service organization helping individuals and families experiencing homelessness. These limited-edition dinner plates are designed by over 40 world-renowned artists and provide food, housing, and other critical services to those in need through The Coalition for The Homeless.

Image: Photo Innovation Lab

Ethical Production Practices

It can be difficult to see behind the scenes of an art company’s production facility, but one way to ensure sustainable practices is to find something that’s made-to-order. This means that the artist doesn’t produce or print the piece until it’s been purchased, which cuts down on excess inventory (which usually winds up as landfill waste). 

Photo Innovation Lab makes high-quality made-to-order prints on sustainable papers and fabrics. Some of their materials are made on tree bark substrates; others, such as their cotton, are made in facilities that run 100% on wind energy. They also leverage water-based paints and pigments in their prints and avoid plastic in their production, which ensures less toxicity and enables the product to be recycled post-use. Note: many photo papers are coated in resin polymers or use other brightening agents, which, while adding shine, make it so the prints cannot be recycled.

Image: Kincaid Galleries

Earth-Friendly Distribution

Shipping is another factor to consider when sharing wall art. The Gallery Climate Coalition is an international community of arts organizations who work together to help reduce the overall impact of the arts sector. This goal is achieved through a variety of initiatives, such as providing industry-specific guidance on sustainability, lobbying for systemic change, and fundraising for core environmental initiatives. To support the gallery climate coalition and its efforts, you can visit their members page, to see which organizations are working alongside them to make the creation, selling, and displaying of art more sustainable. 

Another sustainable art vendor is Kincaid Galleries, which takes 100% of responsibility for maintaining eco-friendly practices throughout its photography production line. Owned by photographer John Kincaid, this gallery offers a range of sustainable, fine art photo prints with tropical, vacation and travel themes. Their sustainable practices include using handmade frames with wood sourced from reforestation projects. When shipping, they also use biodegradable packing peanuts and 100% recyclable cardboard boxes, ensuring a low-waste art production cycle. 

Image: ART FOR CHANGE

Artisan Support

You can also make a difference with your art by choosing organizations that give back to local artists and communities. For example, ART FOR CHANGE provides support for contemporary artists by selling their hand-signed work at manageable prices. ART FOR CHANGE allows collectors to discover new and emerging artists and become their patrons through the platform. They also seek to make art buying more accessible, helping both the artist and the buyer.

The Little Market is another great place to find wall art that supports local artisans. From woven baskets to macrame wall hangings, each purchase offers information from the artists who made the piece. For example, The Little Market works with The Jute Works to empower women in Bangladeshi communities through handicraft production, job training, and leadership skills. The Little Market has other ethically-made home accessories to compliment your wall art collection, such as throws and candles.

Local Art

Lastly, look to your community for ways to support local artists near you. One idea is to research open studios near you, which is a time when local artists will allow an open tour of their workspaces. These artists will usually have art for sale; additionally, it’s a great chance to learn about their process and projects, and follow their newsletter to stay up-to-date on sales and events where you can buy their art. Similarly, local art fairs are a great way to support artists in your community. Many cities and towns host art fairs year-round; furthermore, online art fairs allow you to discover artists in other towns, or even around the world.

These are also great methods to use when you’re traveling, as a way to give back to the artists in the communities you visit.

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Whether you’re just looking to decorate your home sustainably, or you want a more eco-friendly way to collect and curate art, there are many ways to be more conscious when browsing and buying wall art. Just be sure to find out which issues matter most to you, whether supporting local artisans or using reclaimed wood, and look for those requirements in the art you buy. For more inspiration on sustainable home decor, checkout our roundup of brands that support ethically-styled living.

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About the Author:

Michelle Polizzi is an independent writer and storyteller with 7 years of experience creating content online. Her writing has appeared in leading publications like Bitch, WELL+GOOD, Insider, and Healthline, and she covers topics like sustainable living, mental health, and intersectional feminism. Currently, she's pursuing an MFA in creative writing.

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Our Favorite Tips for DECORATING Your Home Sustainably

A house is more than four walls; it is a place where we take refuge and make ever-lasting memories. That's why we want this space to reflect not just our taste but also our values.   

If you're furnishing your new place, renovating an old one, or just sprucing up a room or two and are worried about the environmental costs or want to spend less money on new decor, decorating sustainably can be an excellent option.

But if you don't know how to do that, don't fret; you can do it! There are many ways to do that, and while these sustainable options might take some extra effort, they can save you money and help the environment in the short and long run.

If you want to decorate your home sustainably and need help figuring out where to begin, keep reading to find out. This handy guide will help with your green home decor journey!

Use what you already have

Are you committed to decorating sustainably? Then before you do anything else, make an audit of what you already have. Whether you are starting from scratch with a new place or redecorating doesn't matter. Knowing what you have is always key. 

By finding out exactly what you already own and what you may have to get, you can avoid spending money on things you have lying around but forgot about and also find some hidden gems.   

Even the objects in your home or storage unit that don't seem so appealing could become your new favorite features with a touch of love and creativity.  

To ensure you don't throw away, sell or donate anything you might like after some sourcing up or end up needing later on, look for ways to upcycle and repurpose what you already have. For example, you can use old teapots as vases or stationery organizers, and a spear chair can make for a terrific bedside table.

Give shopping second-hand a try

Do you want to save money, save on emissions and waste and have a house with a unique look to it? Then give thrifting a try. Purchasing vintage or preloved decor is another low-waste and budget-friendly option for decorating your place with existing pieces, as it feeds that good old circular economy.

Depending on your location, you can find second-hand decor and furniture in specialized stores online and offline, at flea markets, or on Facebook Marketplace.   

Contrary to popular belief, there is nothing yucky about shopping second-hand, whether for decor or clothes. But if you are new to thrifting, you might want to buy only things you can examine in person and try buying from reputable businesses instead of private sellers. 

Also, remember that in the second-hand furniture world, there is a big difference between preloved and antique. While you might like to decorate your place with a mix of both, it is good to keep this distinction in mind when shopping, as antique pieces tend to be pricier.  

Borrow from friends and family

Sometimes we don't shop for ourselves but for who we think we should be. So many of us have been here! Some buy sportswear even though they hardly work out, while others buy books that just get added to the TBR pile. 

The same goes when shopping for home decor: it's easy to start planning in our heads and get a bit carried away in the process. So if you are considering buying a bar cart even though you only drink beer or a 12-seat dining room table even though you live alone and never host dinner parties, consider another route: borrowing.

That's right! Instead of buying things you might use very sporadically, you can borrow them from friends, family and neighbours. If the people around are not the borrowing type or don't have what you are looking for, you can try downloading a borrowing and lending platform or app. This way, you get what you need just when you need it. 

Don't shy away from trash

We know that giving old decor a new life is a great way to decorate your home and do it cheaply and sustainably. But if your budget is super tight and you are looking for just a piece or two to add a little oomph to your place, you might want to keep a look on the curb.  

You read that right; your dream piece may be sitting next to a dumpster right at this moment. Plenty of people leave perfectly good furniture in the street for all sorts of reasons, and by simply keeping an eye out for it, you might get a lovely addition to your space for free.

 If you are still skeptical about this whole thing, check out the pieces left in the street and caught by the Stooping NYC account on IG. Get your car (or your car-owning friend) and pick up some free stuff!  

Find several Ethical & Sustainable Home Decor Brands over on Made Trade & be sure to use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC for $20 off your first order of $150+ *this is an affiliate link but we only add brands we truly love!*

Give business to home decor brands with good business ethics

There are plenty of ethically made and sustainable options for responsible home decor. You can find many brands that focus on quality, choose sustainable materials and work ethically with skilled craftsmen and artisans to make timeless and durable pieces. 

As with fashion, try to be mindful of your purchases when shopping new and favor ethical and sustainable brands that are local to you if possible. 

Find 12 Sustainable Home Decor Brands Here

Take it slow and enjoy the journey

Borrowing, thrifting, and shopping with sustainability and quality in mind are all great eco-friendly decorating options, but they can all take some time and patience if you want to do it right.

While being in an undecorated space that doesn't feel like you might be quite frustrating, you might still want to avoid decorating your place fully all at once, even if you can afford it. 

That's because decorating your space slowly will save you plenty of headaches and choices you may regret. 

By taking your time instead of giving in to the temptation of rushing things, you will give yourself a chance to see how your pace turns out bit by bit. This approach can help you make more thought-through choices as you can better see how each new piece will fit into your space.  

Not to mention that your taste can change in time and future-you might be glad to have still some room to get creative.  

Try choosing a color palette and sticking with it

When it comes to decorating your place, planning how it's going to look is half the fun. So why not go all the way and pick a color scheme for your house? 

Choosing a color palette is not only fun, but it will also save you a ton of time and decision fatigue. Plus, it will give your place a nice, cohesive look without you having to try too hard. 

Decorate using plants and other natural elements

Using natural elements like plants, flowers, and so on to decorate our space may be the oldest trick in the book, but if it has been there for that long is because it's effective.  

People have been doing it for centuries. Did you know that even back in the late Middle Ages, churches in the UK used holly and ivy as decorations in the festive season? 

Using nature as decor is a lovely and eco-friendly way to adorn our place and a cheap one too. Whether you will be foraging these green goodies or buying them at the store, make sure they are pet safe if you have any of those running around.  

DIYs are another great option for making sustainable decorating choices

If a home decor item in your house doesn't appeal to you anymore, but you don't want or can't replace it, then you can try to DIY it into something you love. The same goes if you got a good deal for a second-hand decor piece, but it doesn't catch your eye like that designer one you saw on Pinterest or IG.  

While it might not give you that shopping-induced dopamine hit, personalizing pieces instead of buying them may make them more enjoyable and even more functional in the long run. 

After all, no designer will ever know your taste and needs better than you do. DIYing is the perfect way to turn a run-of-the-mill piece into a statement one as long as you can put in the time and energy.

In this department (like many others), the internet can aid you. Look up keywords such as "furniture flip" or "DIY thrift flip decor" on Youtube or TikTok, and you'll get plenty of inspo and instructions. 

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Decorating your place sustainably is a fun, slow journey and especially a personal one. Your place is yours only, so try to remember that while inspiration is cool, the most important thing is making your space your own. So let go of what is considered perfect, and create something customized to your needs. With these tips, you are ready to find things you will want to use for the longest time.  

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About the Author:

Roberta Fabbrocino is a journalist specialized in climate change and sustainability-related topics. Her articles have been published in several international eco-publications. Roberta also works as a content writer for sustainable companies.

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