Benefits of sustainable living

Is sustainable living just about saving our planet? It can also be about saving our wallets. Making small, thoughtful changes in our daily lives can yield significant benefits. Here are some ways to become Nature's warriors while building extra savings.

With the availability of numerous payment apps, going cashless has never been easier in Bangladesh. Reducing the amount of paper and other resources-such as fossil fuels used for transporting money-can lead to positive environmental impacts. How does this save us money? The discounts, offers, and cashback deals available through digital transactions can lead to substantial savings on everyday expenses.

The recent ban on plastic bags has left shoppers with two options: either buy eco-friendly bags from supermarkets or carry reusable bags of our own. Supermarkets sell these bags for around Tk 15 to Tk 20 each. This shift not only encourages sustainable practices but also has financial implications. By developing the habit of carrying a reusable bag, such as one made from natural fibers, we can avoid this recurring expense.

Buying secondhand may not seem like a bad choice when we consider that it helps the environment by reducing the resources needed to create new products. Additionally, it saves us from going into debt for new items. With a little research, we can find excellent secondhand options, from phones to furniture, which prevent waste.

The basic principles we all know-reuse, reduce, and recycle-culminate in the idea of repurposing. This practice helps the planet breathe easier by reducing unnecessary waste, and it provides personal satisfaction, whether it's converting an old saree into a new dress or transforming old furniture into something modern. Repurposing stimulates our creativity and saves money on new purchases.

For businesses, whether small or large, the cost of paper and ink for printing hundreds or thousands of receipts daily can add up significantly. Converting to e-receipts can save companies a lot of money while also conserving trees. A simple software installation is a small investment compared to the long-term benefits.

This list is far from exhaustive. Countless small changes can lead to financial savings. It is time we started viewing sustainable living not only as a solution to environmental problems but also as a means to addressing our financial challenges.

Samiha Morshed Kazi

An environmentalist

Dhaka

[email protected]