Misconceptions about sustainability- ways to save

Sustainability is often perceived as expensive through the media with the idea that being conscious about the environment proves costly in comparison to unsustainable alternatives. I’ll be proving that actively living a more sustainable lifestyle can be done on a budget whilst being student friendly!

Why is sustainability perceived as expensive?

The overall myth that sustainability is expensive is projected through the fact that in the digital age of fashion where fast fashion thrives, sustainability is perceived as the more expensive option.

The rise of fast-fashion gives consumers the opportunity to buy items at a low price, receiving them as fast as next day delivery. Fast-fashion brands thrive by marketing their already-affordable products at further discounted prices through huge sales. Valuing quantity over quality, this forwards the idea that fast fashion is a convenient option to satisfy short term, despite the environmental impact. When sustainability is viewed in comparison to these brands, it is perceived as the expensive alternative.

Capsule wardrobes and second-hand shopping

Curating a capsule wardrobe can be a satisfying and fun challenge. Capsule wardrobes consist of clothes that compliment each other whilst being universal pieces that are interchangeable between many outfits. With this, you naturally buy items that will last you a long time, reducing the consumption of clothes alongside saving money!

Second-hand shopping in charity shops is a great way to find unique pieces for affordable prices. Bulk Kilo sales are also great ways to add some vintage pieces into your wardrobe whilst keeping the cost low. Kilo sales involve choosing items from a huge array of clothes and paying a set price by weight of the items.

Why not go meatless?

Sustainability doesn’t just include fashion. There are many ways to live sustainably through small changes in your everyday lifestyle, including what you eat in a day. Switching a few meals a week with plant-based alternatives is not only beneficial for the environment but is cheaper as recipes that don’t include meat are often more affordable! Rachel Ama is a vegan chef and influencer who has an array of easy vegan recipes across her YouTube channel. I have tried and tested her amazing recipes and love cooking a vegan meal often.

Overall, living sustainably can be affordable and adaptable to your budget and lifestyle. Whether it’s making changes in your wardrobe, how you shop, or trying out new plant-based recipes, there are many ways to save!

Thank you for reading

- Ria x