Myth - living organically has to be expensive.
The organic industry has a bad reputation for being expensive, and yet organic products help protect both people and the planet. Shopping organically is one of the easiest switched you can make to live more sustainably!
Organic September is a month long campaign led by the Soil Association to help raise awareness about the benefits of choosing organic. Which is why this month I wanted to share some of my own tips on supporting and switching to organic even if you're on a tight budget.
But first, what's so great about organic?
The reason that organic is so great for the environment is that it works with nature, not against it. Organic farmers use no chemical pesticides or artificial fertilisers which helps keep our soils healthy.
Did you know, that soils store more carbon than all the plants, trees and atmosphere combined?! Healthier soil means more carbon can be locked into the ground, with organic soils being 25% more effective at storing carbon.
These healthier soils also contribute to an increase in local biodiversity. Organic farms have 50% more wildlife than regular farms!
By only using natural farming methods, organic produce and ingredients are healthier and more nutritionally dense.
Choosing organic is a win-win for the planet and our health!
How to live organically on a budget?
So now you know why living organically is so important, but how can you fit that into your lifestyle?
Realistically organic is always going to be more expensive. The higher welfare and farming quality means there's additional costs that need to be factored into the price of the goods. A 2021 study found that organic was 105% more expensive when compared a basket of 29 non-organic items in Sainsburys.
That number may seem shocking at first, but don't let that scare you off supporting organic! Here are five ways to support organic without hurting the bank.
1) Eat less but better quality
Living sustainably is all about consuming less and the same goes for our food choices. Organic meat is the most expensive organic sub-category, but that doesn't mean you can't support organic farmers. If instead of eating meat every day, you only had meat three times a week, you'd offset the cost of the "organic premium". Eating better quality meat is better for you and the planet.
2) Don't skip skincare
Organic isn't just food and drink! People often forget that skincare can also be certified organic. Look out for the Soil Association logo when shopping for skincare and pick beauty brands that are passionate about protecting the environment. Read more about organic skincare products here.
3) Buy own brand
Just like with regular food items (such as baked beans) you can now buy lots of organic staples as own-brand supermarket products. This is an easier and more affordable way to shop organically. You can easily remember to pick up your organic swaps whenever you do your weekly shop.
4) Grow your own
If you have a green thumb, or are wanting to learn, why not try to grow your own organic produce? It's a fun and rewarding way to get involved in the organic lifestyle! You can start simple with some herbs, just make sure to check for the Soil Association logo (which proves it's certified organic) on seed packets.
5) Spread the word
Want a free way to help organic? Spread the word! Tell your friends and family about the benefits of organic and get them involved in your journey to living an organic lifestyle. Read, watch and listen to organic content to support others who are leading the movement and to give you the tools to encourage others.
I hope this post has inspired you to start choosing organic. Whether it's as simple as switching your tea bags to organic, or starting an organic community garden in your neighbourhood - everyone's actions add up to have a big impact!
If you choose to make any organic swaps in your life I'd love to see them! Tag me on Instagram or TikTok @all.things.greenn so I can support you 💚
Want to learn more about the impact of your diet on the planet? Read some of my previous blog posts on food and the environment.
Thanks for reading and I hope to see you over on Instagram or TikTok - come and say hi 😊
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