Spring into sustainable living

Published: 21 September 2023
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close up of two ses of hands with one pair wearing gardening glove and bot holding a wooden bowl of cherry tomatoes

Spring is the season of renewal, making it the perfect time to ditch old habits and start fresh with more conscious choices.

Whether it’s food, cleaning products or energy alternatives, nature has everything we need to live a more sustainable lifestyle.

Get gardening

Starting your own veggie garden in the warmer weather is a great way to get more whole, plant-based foods into your diet. It’s also a good excuse to compost your food waste and improve your soil health. What’s more, by growing your own food, you’re reducing emissions associated with transport, packaging and storage.

Seasonal shopping

If your thumbs are more brown than green, you can still minimise your food footprint by buying locally and choosing seasonal spring produce like asparagus, bananas, carrots, strawberries and zucchini.

Recycle your rubbish

It can be tempting to rid your home of all unwanted items and leave them on the verge for hard rubbish pick-up in springtime. But much of what we send to landfill can actually be recycled or donated. Learn more about how you can recycle common household items.

Green cleaning

three lemons and a squeeze bottle of yellow liquid on a wooden cutting board next to a stovetop

Once your home is free of clutter, it’s time to clean up. Many household cleaners can be harmful to the environment, not to mention expensive. Instead, check your pantry or bathroom cupboards for natural cleaners like baking soda, white vinegar, tea tree oil and lemon juice to cleanse your home. And be sure to dispose of any old household cleaners at a Detox Your Home event.

Eco energy

Lower your electricity bills by harnessing the power of wind this spring. Instead of turning your air-conditioner on, open your windows in the early morning and evening when the temperature is lower to cool your home. And hanging your clothes out on the washing line instead of using a dryer can make a big difference to your energy bill.

Great outdoors

After being cooped up inside all winter, spring is the time for Victorians to emerge from their homes and soak up some sunshine. Follow our tips for sustainable picnics, road trips, music festivals and camping and fishing expeditions.