If you’re like many people, you are aware that our earth is in trouble due to a myriad of factors such as pollution, deforestation, and the overuse of precious resources. It can be very overwhelming to constantly hear that the earth is in trouble without any plan on how to help. Moreover, many people I’ve talked to feel powerless and helpless about the fight against the earth’s deterioration as sustainability efforts can feel impossible. With so many (important) resources available, many find it challenging to find a starting place on their efforts at saving the earth. We’re here to tell you that it’s okay to start small. You don’t need to jump right in and fix every problem, because even the smallest of steps towards saving the earth have a meaningful impact.
Our philosophies of transparency and sustainability are embedded into our brand and subsequently, our product. We care about the earth and hand sourced materials to reduce our carbon footprint. Our primary materials -hemp, linen, and bamboo lyocell -all have sustainable properties.
Hemp and linen are sustainable by nature as they don’t require pesticides or herbicides to grow, and also grow rapidly. Bamboo lyocell, a new trend in fabric production, is manufactured in a closed loop process where the solvents used are 100% recycled instead of dumped into the environment. These fabrics, compared to cotton, require far less water to grow and are biodegradable. Therefore, if a truhugs’ weighted blanket ends up in a landfill, which, of course, we hope doesn’t occur, it will break down. Furthermore, the color of our blankets, specifically the white colors, are not true white. We forego dying in the last stage of the production process to save on dying materials and limit our use of chemicals.
As we are passionate about our planet and taking steps to preserve its resources, we encourage all of our readers to take steps towards reducing their carbon footprint. There are numerous statistics that demonstrate the gravity of our environmental impact. Moreover, there are hundreds of resources available that gives suggestions on how and where to get started. Investing in a truhugs’ weighted blanket is a fantastic first step towards bettering the planet, but there is more that can be done. Below we’ve outlined some resources for educational purposes and to take action.
Resources if you want to learn more
Documentaries
- Seaspiracy – Netflix
- 2040 – Netflix
- How to change the world – YouTube
- The 11th Hour – Amazon Prime
- Chasing Coral – Netflix
Websites to Save
- www.Earthday.org
- www.loe.org
- www.nationalgeographic.com/environment
- www.NASA.gov
Actions you can take to build sustainability
1. Cut down on single-use plastic products. Much of our single-use plastic ends up in our oceans which is effecting our marine life and ecosystems. Also, as plastic breaks down, it causes tiny particles to make their way into our water and food.
- Use canvas bags instead of plastic bags when you’re out shopping.
- Carry collapsible metal straws if you’re going out to eat or ask for the cup without a straw.
- Use a refillable coffee mug.
- Many coffee establishments such as Starbucks and Dunkin have refillable traveler’s mugs and offer discounts for using refillable cups. *In times of COVID, they’ve limited refilling these, however when things go back to normal, we encourage you to take advantage of these options.*
- Try reusable razors. The dollarshaveclub.com has great options at various (affordable) price points.
2. Only 2% of our earth’s water supply is drinkable in its natural state. It is necessary for us to be mindful of our water consumption to prevent drought and water shortages across the world. Here are some helpful tips on how you can reduce your water usage:
- Turn off the faucet when you are not using it (e.g. while you are brushing your teeth or shaving).
- Install shower heads that restrict the flow of water.
- Only use your washing machine and dishwasher when they are full.
- Check the pipes throughout your house for leaks.
3. Create Oxygen. As deforestation continues to increase, our source of oxygen decreases.
- Plant anything, really, anything! Plants give off oxygen, and they have various cognitive and mental health benefits. Plus, they’re pretty to look at (:
- Growing your own fruits and vegetables is an excellent way to add more oxygen to the environment and provide a self-sustaining food source.
4. Be mindful of the products that you use.
- Reusable batteries are better for the environment and better for your wallet.
- Consider keeping a stack of wash clothes in the kitchen rather than using paper towels.
- Try not to overindulge in produce that are high water consumers (e.g., avocados and pineapples). ‘
We hope that these tips give you a solid starting point for sustainability and working towards saving the planet. If there are tips or ideas that we’ve left out that you think should be included, please reach out to us via social media or email. We will strive to keep this article relevant and current with information we uncover or information submitted by our readers. Happy Earth Day, friends!
