Embracing Sustainable Living in 2022: A Guide to Eco-Friendly Choices
Understanding Sustainable Living: The Challenges and Opportunities
As we step into 2022, the concept of “sustainable living” has never been more relevant. While achieving a completely waste-free lifestyle is a daunting task, especially with daily essentials like disposable masks and single-use plastics, the journey towards sustainability starts with small, conscious choices.
Many cities, like Copenhagen and Zurich, have integrated green initiatives into their local laws. Even in cities where the sustainable movement is not as prominent, there are encouraging signs of change, such as an increasing number of cafes offering reusable cups and stores featuring innovative recycling and upcycling products.
Discovering Sustainable Shops in Beijing: A Shopping Challenge
We embarked on a mission to explore four sustainable-themed stores in Beijing and completed a “200 Yuan Shopping Challenge” to see how far we could go with eco-friendly choices.
THE BULK HOUSE: Zero-Waste Store in Beiluo Lane
Located at No. 70 Beiluo Lane, THE BULK HOUSE is the first zero-waste store on the mainland. This store, known for its commitment to sustainability, offers a variety of products that promote eco-conscious consumption.
Here are some of the products we bought:
- Multi-Purpose Biodegradable Wood Pulp Towel – ￥13.5
- Natural Cleansing Sponges – ￥48
- Collapsible Silicone Meal Boxes – ￥89
- Natural Corn Dental Floss – ￥35
- DIY Zero-Waste Wallet – ￥5
Total: ￥190.5
Roundabout: Charity Store with a Twist
Roundabout, located at Xiangjiang North Road, is a charity store that offers a unique shopping experience. The store accepts donations from local residents and爱心人士, and a portion of the proceeds goes towards educational and medical projects.
Here are some of the items we purchased:
- Pig Figurine – ￥10
- BLUE BOTTLE Coffee Mug – ￥15
- Miniature Cat Musician Ceramic Figurines – ￥100
- Customized Reusable Bag – ￥0
Total: ￥125
Erwu循环 Store: Recycle and Enjoy
Erwu循环 Store, located at 798 Zhong Er Street, is a store that specializes in second-hand clothing, shoes, bags, and books. The store also offers a second-hand item recycling and disinfection area.
Here are some of the items we bought:
- Barbie Doll Figurine – ￥20
- Lion Holding Honey Jar – ￥20
- Owl 3D Puzzle – ￥19
- Sonny Angels Blind Box – ￥30
- Three Fans – ￥0
Total: ￥89
MultiZhuaYu: Recycle and Rediscover
MultiZhuaYu, located at 75 Building, Jianshe North Road, is a second-hand book and clothing store that has gained popularity since 2017. The store offers a variety of designer brand clothing and accessories, as well as a range of second-hand books.
Here are some of the items we bought:
- Felting Cat Brooch – ￥33
- Wooden Laundry Bar – ￥36
- The Sound and the Fury (1992 Edition) – ￥15
Total: ￥84
Conclusion: Small Choices, Big Impact
Our shopping experiences at these sustainable stores remind us that sustainability is not just a buzzword; it is a way of life that can be integrated into our daily routines. By making conscious choices, we can contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.