Sustainable living today is not a choice but is the need of the hour. It is time to reduce the strain on environmental resources by switching to healthier alternatives. The good part is customers are now more informed and looking for eco-friendly products supporting the environment and society. More manufacturers and retailers are adapting to this changed customer behaviour and offering sustainable solutions to their customers. And to fulfil this need, there is a change in the materials and methods used for production.

Companies are adopting recycling and upcycling concepts to produce sustainable products. Let’s understand them in detail.

What Is Upcycling?

Upcycling is a creative way of reusing old products and giving them a new life. It is a process of transforming waste or discarded materials into new products. The upcycled products usually have better quality, value or environmental worth. By reusing discarded products and materials, companies have moved towards sustainability. Upcycling helps manufacturers to lower product wastage.

Today upcycling is done in almost every sector. You can buy garments made of scrap materials or bags using old tyres. Upcycling has shown a significant impact in reducing environmental pollution. Besides, it has open doors for economic opportunities.

What Is Recycling?

There is a lot of waste apart from discarded materials. This waste enters the landfills and stays there for a long time. Waste such as plastic bottles is harmful to the environment as they remain in landfills for long. With the help of recycling, companies are converting this waste into better, utilitarian, recycled products. Recycling lowers the need to create new raw materials. Hence, it supports sustainable living.

There is no limitation to what can be recycled. Paper, plastic, steel, glass, etc., can all be recycled. You can find paper plates and toilet rolls made of used paper, sleeping bags, carpets, backpacks and even clothes made from recycled plastic.  

How Can You Support Upcycling And Recycling?

You can support the environment by being a conscious buyer. You can do your part by buying upcycled or recycled items. Many of these are handmade products crafted by Indian artisans. These products are eco-friendly and promote sustainable living.

Opting for materials that can be recycled and upcycled easily is also recommended. Here are some for your reference:

1. Wood

Wood is amongst the easiest materials to recycle. Recycling wood is beneficial to the environment and cost-effective for the wood industry. Since wood products are natural products, making them solid and durable. You can get different handcrafted wooden products, wooden masala boxes, wooden kitchen cabinets, and wooden upcycled sunglasses are among the top options. 

1. Bamboo

Bamboo is a safe and an earth-friendly material. It consumes less water and no chemicals during its production. Moreover, bamboo is more durable compared to others. Bamboo products are in high demand these days. Some options include bamboo brushes, home decor items, toiletries, furniture, lamps, etc. The material can also withstand rot and warping, making it more advantageous. 

1. Organic Cotton

Grown without using pesticides, organic cotton is a perfect example of a sustainable material. It is suitable for the environment, biodegradable and renewable. You can buy cotton products for comfort and durability. Organic products made of cotton are clothes, bedding, bags, etc. You can choose handwoven cotton bedding to improve your sleep quality. Opt for breathable dresses made of cotton and say yes to sustainable fashion. 

1. Linen

Like cotton, linen is also a famous material amongst the available ethical products. Linen products are great for health and nature. You must invest in linen clothes especially in the summer months. They are soft, breathable and perfect for your skin. Being 100% recyclable, linen is among the best earth-friendly materials.

Opting for the above products supports eco-friendly living. Recycled and green products are durable, energy-efficient, and require less maintenance. Besides, it is entirely possible if you are focused on adopting a particular lifestyle, such as veganism. You can buy vegan products made of materials such as hemp, linen, and organic cotton. Vegan leather bags and footwear are much in fashion today.