Hopefully you have half of this list covered already or it might be just a few, either way you can aim to mark off as many as possible.
Buy less stuff!
Stop buying for the sake of buying — it’s a simple shift that can have a big impact. Being more intentional about what you bring into your life means more money for what actually matters, less clutter at home, and less time spent cleaning and organising. It also helps to reduce the constant pressure to consume — unsubscribe from promotional emails and add a “no junk mail” sticker to your letterbox to cut down on temptation. Over time, it’s not about going without, but about redirecting your time, money, and energy toward what you truly value.
Buy in bulk wherever possible — it can save both money and packaging waste — but only if you can realistically use what you buy. There’s no point stocking up on large quantities if it just ends up spoiling in the fridge or pantry. Focus on items you know you use regularly, like grains, pasta, beans, or nuts, and consider freezing perishables when you can. Join a co-op and split quantities with family and friends so you can all take advantage of cheaper pricing.
Whenever you bulk-buy, bring your own reusable bags, jars, or containers. This reduces single-use packaging and helps you build a habit of sustainable shopping.
Buying in bulk this way isn’t just about cutting costs or waste - it also encourages more intentional shopping.
Grow herbs in any space you have available — a sunny windowsill, balcony, or small garden plot. Think about how many times you’ve bought a bunch of herbs at the shop, only to throw half of them out when they wilted. By growing your own, you always have fresh herbs on hand, and you can harvest exactly what you need, reducing waste.
Beyond the personal benefits, herbs can also support your garden and local ecosystem. Many herbs, like basil, mint, and thyme, are excellent companion plants that help deter pests and improve the growth of nearby vegetables. They also attract pollinators like bees, which are crucial for healthy gardens and the wider environment. Even a few small pots can make a noticeable difference, creating a greener, more productive space that’s both practical and environmentally friendly.
Save your kitchen scraps instead of sending them straight to landfill. Vegetable peelings, fruit cores, coffee grounds, eggshells — all of these can be put to good use. If you have the space, start a compost bin in your backyard or on a balcony; over time, these scraps break down into nutrient-rich compost that can feed your garden, enrich your soil, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. Even small-scale composting in a container or worm farm can make a surprising difference.
If space is limited or composting isn’t practical, don’t let that stop you. At the very least, separate your organic waste and put it in your council’s green bin or garden organics collection. This ensures that the food scraps are still reused and recycled, rather than ending up in landfill. By simply keeping your kitchen waste out of the general rubbish, you’re contributing to a circular system where organic matter is returned to the earth, supporting gardens, farms, and the environment as a whole.
Switching to green electricity is one of the most effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint without changing your daily routines. Take the time to research providers and look for companies that invest exclusively in renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, or hydro. Many households assume that green electricity automatically costs more, but increasingly, providers offer competitive rates that are on par with, or sometimes even lower than, standard energy plans. Choosing a company committed to clean energy allows you to support the transition to a sustainable grid while keeping your electricity bills manageable.
The impact goes beyond your own home. By selecting a genuinely green electricity provider, you’re sending a clear signal to the energy market that there is demand for renewable power. This encourages investment in clean technologies, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and helps decrease greenhouse gas emissions on a larger scale. Over time, these small individual choices add up to significant environmental benefits, and the best part is that it costs you no more than conventional electricity. It’s a practical, low-effort step that aligns your everyday spending with your values and helps shape a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Got a pool? Cover it whenever it’s not in use. A simple pool cover can drastically reduce water evaporation, which is especially important in hot or dry climates. Less evaporation means you won’t have to constantly top up the pool, saving significant amounts of water over time. It also helps keep debris, leaves, and dirt out of the pool, which reduces the need for chemical treatments to maintain water quality.
A pool cover also reduces the workload on pumps and filtration systems. Because there’s less debris and fewer contaminants in the water, your equipment doesn’t have to run as often or as long to keep the pool clean. This saves energy, reduces wear and tear on your pool equipment, and lowers your electricity bills. Over time, these small steps combine to make your pool more environmentally friendly and cost-effective, while also making maintenance easier and less time-consuming.
Get involved in your local environment by joining an environmental group or participating in a cause you care about. Australia has a wide range of opportunities, whether it’s helping clean up beaches with Sea Shepherd’s volunteer programs, attending a permaculture workshop to learn sustainable gardening techniques, or joining local Landcare or Bushcare groups that restore native habitats and protect local wildlife. These activities don’t just benefit the environment — they also connect you with like-minded people in your community and give you hands-on experience in conservation.
Buy local organic produce wherever you can. Choosing locally grown fruits and vegetables means fresher, more nutrient-rich food, and buying organic reduces your exposure to synthetic pesticides and chemicals. But the benefits go beyond your plate — local produce travels shorter distances to reach you, which helps cut down on carbon emissions and food miles. Supporting local farmers and producers also strengthens your community, keeps money circulating locally, and encourages sustainable agricultural practices.
Make it practical by visiting farmers’ markets, community gardens, or local co-ops, where seasonal produce is abundant and often more affordable than supermarket alternatives. You can also swap surplus fruit and vegetables with friends and family, reducing waste while sharing the bounty. Over time, these habits not only improve your health and support the local economy, but they also help build a more sustainable, connected approach to food that benefits both people and the planet.
Reusables. Seriously, this one’s old but you take your own reusable shopping bags right? What about taking your own reusable fruit and veg bags instead of the flimsy plastic ones at supermarkets. It’s an easy swap that immediately cuts down on single-use plastic, and while you’re at it, think about replacing other disposable items too — water bottles, coffee cups, straws, takeaway containers (too obvious right?), what about disposable razors, coffee pods, cling wrap, wet wipes? These can all be swapped for reusables. Making these small changes adds up, reducing waste, saving money, and helping the environment with very little extra effort.
Switch to a bamboo toothbrush instead of a plastic one, and be mindful of the plastic packaging that most toothbrushes come in — it can take hundreds of years to break down in landfill. While you’re at it, make it a habit to say no to the free samples of plastic toothbrushes and tiny toothpaste tubes that dentists often hand out. These small choices reduce unnecessary plastic waste and help shift everyday habits toward more sustainable, long-lasting alternatives without costing you anything extra.
If you have the space, grow your own vegetables and fruit trees — it’s not just about saving money or having fresh produce on hand. Think strategically and plant something different from what your friends, family, or neighbours grow. That way, when you have a surplus, you can swap or share varieties that others don’t have, creating more diversity on everyone’s plates and reducing waste. Growing your own also gives you the chance to experiment with heirloom or unusual varieties, try seasonal crops you might not find at the supermarket, and reconnect with the rhythms of the seasons. Over time, this habit can turn your garden into a small, self-sufficient ecosystem that benefits both you and your community.
Check out www.energy.gov.au It's the official Australian Government site for energy information, including rebates and concessions. It lists current programs for households and businesses, such as energy bill discounts, renewable energy incentives, and efficiency upgrade support, linking you to the relevant state, territory, or federal schemes.
Don’t leave home without your refillable water bottle — it’s one of the simplest habits to build and makes a big difference over time. Choosing a stainless steel bottle instead of plastic means it’s more durable, keeps your drink cooler for longer, and avoids the wear and potential chemical leaching that can come with repeated plastic use.
Install a rainwater tank (or even a couple, if you have the space) to collect and reuse water around your home — it’s perfect for the garden, washing clothes, and even flushing toilets depending on your setup. In many parts of Australia, newer homes are encouraged or required to include water-saving measures like rainwater tanks or greywater systems, especially in areas where water conservation is a priority.
Using rainwater and greywater not only reduces your reliance on mains water, but also lowers your water bills and makes your home more resilient during dry periods.
School stationery… don’t get me started! So much of it is still perfectly usable at the end of the year. Before buying anything new, reuse what you already have — pens, pencils, rulers, scissors, and pencil cases often last for years. If your school provides lists of what you need, just replace what you don't already have. (no one needs a pair of scissors every year!). Anything in good condition that you no longer need can be donated or passed on to other families, helping reduce waste and save money at the same time. If there's an option to buy eco-friendly do your best - recycled paper, refillable pens, 'green' erasers.
Make as much as you can, time permitting — from meals, school or work snacks, and lunches to everyday items like yoghurt, cleaners, bread, crackers, and even simple personal care products. When you make things yourself, you have full control over the ingredients, which often means healthier choices and fewer additives, while also cutting down on packaging and single-use waste. It can also be significantly more cost-effective over time, especially for staples you use regularly.
You don’t have to do everything at once — start with a few basics that fit easily into your routine and build from there. Even small changes, like preparing lunches at home or making a batch of snacks for the week, can reduce waste, save money, and help you feel more organised and in control of what you’re consuming.
Always choose Fairtrade products where possible —especially when it comes to everyday items like chocolate, coffee and tea. By purchasing Fairtrade, you’re supporting ethical sourcing practices that ensure farmers and workers receive fair wages and operate under safe working conditions. Next time you visit your local café, don’t hesitate to ask whether their coffee and tea are Fairtrade certified. You might be surprised to find that many businesses either aren’t aware of Fairtrade or haven’t considered offering it, and your question alone can help raise awareness and encourage change.
Swap out single-use items like plastic wrap, aluminium foil, and baking paper for more sustainable alternatives such as silicone baking sheets, beeswax wraps, or reusable food covers. These options can be used again and again, helping to significantly reduce household waste while also saving money over time.
Silicone sheets are perfect for baking, eliminating the need for disposable baking paper and making clean-up easier. Beeswax wraps are a great alternative to cling wrap—they can be moulded around food or containers using the warmth of your hands, keeping items fresh while allowing them to breathe. Reusable food covers, including fabric bowl covers or stretchable lids, are another practical option for storing leftovers or covering dishes.
Making these small switches in your kitchen can have a big environmental impact by cutting down on single-use plastics and other disposable materials
Use public transport, car pool, ride or walk as much as you can.
Donate what you can — whether it’s clothes, toys, books, sporting equipment, or office and school supplies to help reduce waste and support others in your community. Items you no longer need may still be incredibly valuable to someone else, and donating them gives them a second life instead of ending up in landfill. At the same time, consider checking second-hand shops or online marketplaces before making a new purchase. Buying pre-loved items is often more affordable and environmentally friendly, reducing demand for new production and minimising your overall footprint.
Supporting green or eco-friendly businesses helps protect the environment by encouraging sustainable practices and responsible production. These businesses often prioritise reducing waste, conserving energy, using ethically sourced materials, and lowering carbon emissions. By choosing to spend your money with them, you’re helping to create demand for more environmentally conscious products and services, which can influence other businesses to adopt similar practices. In turn, this collective shift supports a healthier planet and promotes long-term environmental sustainability.
Reduce or eliminate buying products that come in unnecessary plastic packaging, especially when it comes to fresh fruit and vegetables. Many of these items are naturally protected by their own skins, making plastic wrapping completely unnecessary. Choosing loose produce instead is a simple way to cut down on waste. If a product you regularly buy is only available in plastic, consider reaching out to the company to ask if they can offer more environmentally friendly packaging. The more people who speak up and make conscious choices—particularly around over-packaged items like fruit and veg—the more likely businesses are to rethink their approach and move towards sustainable alternatives.
Seal gaps around doors and windows to prevent drafts and maintain a more consistent indoor temperature throughout the year. Even small gaps can let in cold air during winter and hot air during summer, forcing your heating or cooling systems to work harder. Adding weather seals or draft stoppers is a simple and cost-effective solution. Installing blinds, curtains, or thermal window coverings can also make a significant difference by reducing heat loss in colder months and blocking excess heat in warmer months. These small changes not only improve comfort in your home but can also lead to noticeable savings on energy bills over time.
Avoid fast fashion by being more mindful about where and how you shop for clothing. Fast fashion often relies on cheap materials and mass production, which can lead to significant environmental impact and short-lived garments. Instead, consider visiting op shops or exploring second-hand options, where you can find unique, affordable pieces while giving clothing a second life. When buying new, choose high-quality items made to last across many seasons, focusing on timeless styles rather than short-term trends. Investing in durable clothing not only reduces waste but also saves money in the long run and supports a more sustainable approach to fashion.
When staying at hotels, consider bringing your own toiletries instead of using the ones provided in the room. The small bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash may seem convenient, but they create unnecessary plastic waste that adds up quickly across thousands of guests. Many hotel toiletries also contain palm oil, the production of which is a major driver of deforestation, habitat loss, and environmental degradation—so avoiding them has a positive impact beyond just reducing plastic. By packing your own reusable containers with eco-friendly products, you’re making a simple but meaningful choice that reduces waste, supports sustainable ingredients, and encourages more conscious travel habits.
This list could keep going and you can certainly Google more ways to be more sustainable but hopefully you find a few things you can change over to help make a difference.