Over the years several materials, products, gadgets, and technologies have been introduced with the idea that they are more sustainable and better for the planet than other similar products. While this may be true, at times it can be just as sustainable, if not more, to stick with what you have and only purchase new products when the old ones no longer function. This is something I have integrated within my own life!
I got this backpack for the start of 4th grade and used it right up until the middle of my sophomore year in college when I found a hole had formed in the bottom. I used this backpack for about ten years total, and still use the lunchbox that came with it.
I have also had the same wallet since middle school. It’s nice and works well, so there really has been no point in me going out to get a new one. While this may be something that depends on your preferences (i.e., if you use a purse or something else), I would still recommend purchasing a high-quality item that you know you will be able to use for a long time, as opposed to something that “looks sooo cool!” only for it to break or rip.
Finally, I’ve had my bike since the 6th grade, more than ten years ago. It has been through a lot, but it still works! When it doesn’t though – and there have been those moments with the brakes and tires – I have taken it into a shop to get it fixed. This has been far cheaper than going out and buying a new bike.
The lesson here comes from three of the five R’s: Reduce, Reuse and Repair. Reduce the number of things you purchase and accept, especially trinkets, gadgets, and giveaways. Reuse the items that you currently have until you no longer can. Repair your current items when they do break, as it can be cheaper and use less materials than buying new.
You do not need to have the latest sustainability product to live sustainably! Using your current possessions to the fullest is all you need. That being said, when the time does come to purchase a new product, a sustainably made product can be useful – but be sure that it is something you can reuse time and time again.
This blog post was written by Jonathon Lewis, O’Neill School Master’s candidate studying Environmental Policy and Sustainability. Jonathon is the Carbon Analyst Intern with IUPUI Sustainability, and has held various roles since joining the office in October 2019.
This goes for clothing too! Marnie, your cousin, is a big fan of 2nd hand stores!