At SAOLA, we believe in big lives and small footprints. Living in harmony with nature isn’t a passing trend—it’s a necessity. Whether you're exploring the mountains or lounging on a city terrace, your choices matter. That’s why we’ve rounded up 9 simple actions you can take this summer to live a little lighter and tread a little softer.
What Does Eco-Friendly Really Mean?
Being eco-friendly means making choices that reduce harm to the planet—using less, wasting less, and caring more. It’s about taking intentional steps to protect the natural world, preserve its beauty, and support biodiversity. Every mindful habit adds up.
Why Your Actions Count
One person's actions might seem like a drop in the ocean. But when millions act together, those drops become waves. Imagine if everyone replaced just one lightbulb with an LED—it could prevent millions of tons of greenhouse gas emissions every year.
Let’s dive into 9 easy ways you can have a positive impact this summer:
1. Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Say no to things you don’t need—like freebies and extra packaging. Buy only what you’ll use. Give old items a second life. Recycle smart.
Pro tip: Keep a reusable tote and water bottle with you. It’s a game changer.
2. Start Composting
Summer’s perfect for starting a composting habit. You’ll reduce waste and nourish your garden.
How to get started:
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Collect fruit and veggie scraps.
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Add dry leaves or yard clippings.
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Keep it moist and turn weekly.
In 2–6 months, you’ll have your own rich compost—no green thumb required.
3. Cut Your Energy Use
Longer days mean more natural light and less need for appliances.
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Air-dry your laundry.
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Unplug what you’re not using.
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Raise the AC a few degrees or skip it when you can.
You’ll cut your footprint and your bill.
4. Save Water Outdoors
Freshwater is precious. Make every drop count:
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Water before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
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Use a rain barrel.
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Mow higher—longer grass holds moisture better.
Inside, low-flow showerheads can reduce water use by up to 60% without sacrificing comfort.
5. Try Plogging
Plogging = jogging + picking up litter. Take a bag on your next run and collect a few pieces of trash. You’ll feel great, and so will your neighbourhood.
Make it social: challenge your friends or organize a group outing.
6. Choose Paddle Power
Explore lakes and rivers without the gas fumes. Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard—and don’t forget:
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Reef-safe sunscreen
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Reusable water bottles
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Wildlife respect: look, don’t disturb
7. Build a Pollinator Hotel
Support local bees and insects with a simple DIY pollinator hotel.
Materials: bamboo canes, hollow stems, small logs with drilled holes, scrap wood
Build:
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Cut bamboo/stems into 10–15 cm lengths.
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Bundle them tightly together.
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Place them inside a wooden frame or box.
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Make sure the tubes stay dry and horizontal.
Placement:
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Sunny spot, about 1 meter off the ground
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Sheltered from rain and wind
Your garden will thank you.
Full Guide: RSPB: Make a Bee Hotel
8. Practice Sustainable Tourism
Travel with intention:
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Choose eco-friendly operators and accommodations
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Avoid peak seasons and over-touristed spots
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Use public transit, reusable containers, and spend locally
Little things—like shorter showers or skipping plastic cutlery—make a big difference.
9. Embrace Sustainable Fashion
What you wear matters.
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Thrift or swap instead of buying new
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Support brands that walk the talk (SAOLA, anyone) 😉
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Look for certifications like GOTS or Fair Trade
Bonus: vintage finds are always in.
We’re not here to be perfect—we’re here to make progress. At SAOLA, we walk mindfully, always looking for ways to reduce our impact and spread positive energy. By taking small steps, we shape a future that’s bright, wild, and full of possibility.
Let’s enjoy every moment of summer—together, and with a lighter footprint.
