Sustainable Living and Wellbeing: The Link Between People and Planet

Swapping disposables and single use plastics for more sustainable alternatives can help reduce exposure to toxic substances and limit negative environmental and health impacts.

Sustainable living is more than a trend—it’s a way of life that fosters both environmental conservation and personal wellbeing.

From the clothes we buy and the food we eat to the mattresses upon which we sleep and the paint we roll onto our walls, our choices have a profound impact on both our own health and the health of the planet. But what is far too frequently overlooked is the link between the two.

The choices we make as parents—as individuals–not only affect the environment but also directly impact our health. Everyday items—single-use plastics, processed foods, household cleaners—can contain chemicals that not only degrade the environment and but that pose significant risks to our personal well-being. Reducing exposure to harmful substances and opting for sustainable alternatives is a significant step toward safeguarding both our health and the planet.

From the impact of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or “forever chemicals”) found in thousands of products and linked to a variety of significant health issues, to the rampant presence of microplastic pollutants in the water and food we consume, the health of our planet and our families are inextricably linked.

So What Can We Do?

The good news is that there are so many conscious choices we can make to prioritize the health of our families and our planet. It can seem daunting, but even small steps matter. Here are a few ways to start:

1.      Choose organic, pesticide-free foods whenever possible and support local farmers who use sustainable practices.

3. Avoid plastics, especially single-use items, and switch to glass, silicone and other non-toxic reusable alternatives. Recycle plastic packaging to reduce environmental contamination.

4. Use air and water filters to remove harmful toxins from our homes.

5. Choose non-toxic, clean household and personal products to limit exposure to damaging chemicals. Envronmental Working Group has a great database to search safety scores on thousands of items.

6. Opt for natural fibers and low VOC paints and limit exposure to synthetic materials in clothes, bedding, furniture and other items in the home.