It can be daunting to think about the climate crisis. The science is complex, the headlines scary and it’s easy to become overwhelmed, questioning whether individual actions can even make a difference.
It’ll take a herculean global effort to solve the crisis, but it’s worth making simple swaps to your routine that can cut down on waste, reduce plastic and build better habits.
BEESWAX WRAPS, Arni Paperie, Southold Goodbye, plastic wrap. These versatile, reusable wraps are made from cotton, beeswax, tree rosins and jojoba oil. They can be used to cover leftovers, wrap snacks to-go and even for storing your bar of soap while traveling. $15-$30
BAMBOO TOOTHBRUSH, The Weathered Barn, Greenport An estimated one billion plastic toothbrushes are thrown away in the United States each year, according to the American Dental Association. Keep your pearly whites shining with a toothbrush made from 100% bio-based bristles, sustainable bamboo and compostable packaging. Comes in two sizes for adults and children. $6
WOOL DRYER BALLS, White Flower Farmhouse, Southold Ditch single-use dryer sheets with these wool dryer balls, which can be tossed in with wet laundry to reduce static, soften and reduce drying time. If you’re missing the scent from the grocery store sheets, you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. $4
LINEN BEDDING, TouchGOODS, Southold This new collection of soft, stylish and sustainable bedding by MagicLinen is made from European flax and is Oeko-Tex certified, meaning it’s free of harmful chemicals. Create the bed of your dreams with various colors and prints. Bonus points: it comes in 100% compostable packaging. $30-$225
BULK FOOD, The Market, Greenport Stock up on dry goods like dried fruits, seeds, snacks, nuts and grains in bulk, eliminating wasteful packaging. Prices vary by weight
LAUNDRY STRIPS, FitFoods, Southold An estimated 700 million plastic laundry jugs are tossed in the trash every year in the United States. These strips, which come in plastic-free packaging, contain ultra-concentrated, hypoallergenic detergent that you simply toss in the wash. One package lasts for about 32 loads. $17.99
REFILL BAR, Eastport General Store, Eastport Though slightly off the North Fork, the Eastport General Store has a well-stocked bulk refill area for household products including cleaners, dish soap, laundry liquid, shampoo, conditioner, facial moisturizers, toothpaste tablets and more. Bring your own container or purchase one there! Prices vary by weight
