In the last two weeks I thought a lot about creating a more sustainable lifestyle. There a lot of things I have already done or I have started to do. A lot of these things can be improved of course. However instead of writing it down on my own I will share it with you. Maybe it will inspire you to emulate my deeds.

What is sustainability?

Why is a sustainable lifestyle important?

Instead of writing a whole book about why a sustainable lifestyle is important, I recommend watching "The Story of Stuff". It is a really descriptive way of explaining what we are doing with our nature due to economic interests.

If you don't have the time for watching the video you can read about it here.

How to start your sustainable lifestyle?

Think about it as your private project. Give it a name like "Better Life". Start with small actions and as time goes by you will discover new ways to act more sustainable. This new life is more challenging because you will think about the impact of your actions and avoid actions that don't fit with your project. It is also more adventurous and fun because you live beyond the discounter mainstream that only focuses on availability and price. You will find alternatives and new products that you haven't heard of before. That's exciting!

Am I a bad guy if don't follow every step to a more sustainable lifestyle?

No. The "Sustainable Lifestyle" project has to fit with your needs and goals in life. I won't doubt that they can change to become more sustainable during the progress of your new project. However if you want to drive a car, I'm fine with it as long as you are aware of the negative environmental impacts and actively work on reducing them. And don't worry I'm not a radical eco hippie. I would describe myself more as an eco yuppie:

Earth-friendly. Young urban professional. Sustainability-minded. Humanitarian. 'Herban.' Conservation-conscious. Recycles. Organic consumer. Fair trade supporter. Local produce purchaser. Reuses. Reduces personal waste. Encourages a healthy lifestyle. Knowledgeable. Seeks to succeed in life, while maintaining a view of the bigger picture. Supports wildlife conservation efforts. Informed. Reduces carbon footprint. Knows what 'carbon footprint' means. Evolves. Creative problem-solver. Values a good quality of life. (source)

Blog Series "Sustainable Lifestyle" - Upcoming topics

I will write on about half a dozen areas where you can easily make changes to live more sustainable. The Blog Series will deal with shopping, car driving, living, washing, food, work and fitness. Maybe I will find more areas during writing. If you want me to write about another area, let me know in the comments.

Stay tuned for part #2 of the Blog Series!

Update:

Blog Series 'Sustainable Lifestyle': #2 - 9 Tips on Shopping

Picture credits: "Earth Day art contest 2008" by Fairfax County Public Library (Flickr)