For the past few years Arti Jalan has been creating Forage and Sustain, a blog dedicated to sustainability, she has also been busy sharing her passion for sustainable living on social platforms, namely Instagram. Arti is an advocate for social change and sustainable living, which she shares via easy to implement practical steps and tips. Arti aims to show people that sustainability doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or comfort, and that by changing our thinking and habits, we can begin to create real momentum. I caught up with Arti to find out more about who inspires her and look at what simple steps we can take to live more sustainably…
When asked what inspired her to start Forage & Sustain: Waste and overconsumption have always bothered me, as well as unethical practices in manufacturing. So many of my previous life and job experiences were in areas that coincided with sustainability, without me even realising it. These things prepped me for this kind of work, and it seemed like a totally natural fit!
Practical Ways To Live More Sustainably
- For anyone thinking of living more sustainably, what 3 practical things would you suggest the do the start their journey?
First remember that this is a marathon, not a sprint.
Always keep “progress over perfection” in mind, as it is impossible to flip a switch and change overnight.
– Arti Jalan, Editor of Forage & Sustain
Start by implementing easy switches and slowly begin to make change. It’s not entirely about buying cute zero-waste products as it is about understanding why, how, and what you can do that is truly sustainable (using an old cotton tee as a rag instead of buying a new, cute linen dishrag for example). So, with that said, here are three steps:
Create Sustainable Daily Habits
- Take account of your daily habits and practices – what is superfluous that you can cut out to make change? Maybe your daily coffee shop run for your to-go latte? Switch to a reusable coffee cup! That’s a hugely impactful change that you’ve just made!
Are You On Autopilot?
- Start questioning your subconscious actions. Are you unknowingly reaching for a plastic produce bag at the store? Really pay attention (this is harder because it’s mostly always done subconsciously), take note, and make a change. Switch to reusable produce bags!
What Are Your Non-negotiables
- Make a set list of non-negotiables. It can be hard to do it all, so maybe stick to a few things that you will change under any circumstances, and do those things really well until you have them down pat and it’s no longer an option to go the wasteful route. Over time, add more things to your list!
Sustainable Influences
- Q. When it comes to living sustainably, which 3 influential figures do you look to for guidance and inspiration?
I love Candice Batista! She’s a journalist and true green queen, who shares amazing tips and practices via her personal IG account as well as her blog The Eco Hub.
Aja Barber is another incredible resource when it comes to ethics, race, inequality and social justice in the sustainability arena. Her work is as deeply thought-provoking as it is eye-opening. I’m constantly learning from her.
The Zero Waste Collective is also a great resource for inspiration and guidance!
Sustainable Brands
- Can you share 3 sustainable brands you’re loving?
I’m in love with Ten and Co for their reusable sponge cloths that come in the cutest designs! Visit: Ten & Co.
Literally everything from June Home Supply – all their stuff is beautiful, well-made, sustainable and truly swoon-worthy! I believe a lot of product is curated from other brands as well as their own, but it’s a great place to get all the things! Visit: June Home Supply
Fysha – they make super high-quality olive oil soap bars (with EVOO sourced from Greece), and they are so moisturising, soothing and luxurious – highly recommend! Visit: Fysha
To enjoy more sustainable living guidance from Arti, visit Forage & Sustain.
Christine
