Why Urban Sustainability Starts at Home
You know that feeling when you're standing in a grocery store, staring at twenty different kinds of dish soap, and wondering which one is actually better for the planet? I've been there too-a lot. It can be overwhelming, right? We're bombarded with messages about climate change and environmental collapse, but rarely given practical guidance on how our everyday choices can make a difference.
That's why I wrote this book.
I'm not an environmental scientist or a zero-waste guru who grew up composting in an eco-village. I'm just someone who, like you, wants to do better by our planet without upending my entire life. My journey toward a more sustainable household has been full of trial and error, small victories, and yes, plenty of moments where I threw my hands up in frustration. But what I've learned along the way is that urban sustainability isn't about perfection-it's about progress.
The Power of Everyday Choices
In 2023, a study by the Environmental Protection Agency found that household consumption accounts for approximately 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions and between 50-80% of total land, material, and water use (EPA, 2023). That means our daily habits-how we shop, eat, commute, and maintain our homes-have enormous collective impact.
But here's the good news: this also means we have tremendous power to create positive change, starting right where we are.
When I first began making changes in my own home, I noticed something unexpected. Yes, I was reducing waste and saving energy, but I was also creating a home that felt more intentional, less cluttered, and more aligned with my values. My family was eating better food, spending less on things we didn't need, and feeling more connected to our community. The environmental benefits were matched by personal ones.