Would like to chat about Less

[WhitegreeNcandle]

So, I’ve just read Patrick Grants book Less and found it really thought provoking. I’ve never bought from places like SHEIN but I had been trundling along thinking I was doing ok. Since reading it I’ve realised how much tat we are surrounded by and I don’t want to be a part of it any more. I hadn’t realised how insidious it’s become really. It’s not just the quality of stuff it’s about how the economy could work on a quality scale.

Would love to just chat about easy swaps to make. Preferably cheap ones and it is a more expensive lifestyle I think. I went into our local refill shop yesterday and found there is a local company who do cleaning refills. Manufactured within 20 miles of where I live, reusable glass bottles etc.

As for 'still trying', I don't really think of it as 'trying'. It's just how we live.

I agree, plastic film is on everything. Years ago a soft fruit was be in cardboard tubs. But I don’t think cardboard can survive the trucks etc.
If they have to use soft plastic, why can’t it be home compostable. I’m sure cardboard shapes etc could be used more. I know has a higher carbon footprint but is easier to recycle and does rot!
I take a couple of bags of plastic to supermarket. I use the cat litter bag as my big bag. Hope that makes sense!

I'm still wearing the same clothes I bought over 10 years ago. I don't buy lots of new clothes because I don't need it. I also have a lot of old furniture that is solid wood and I like it. I know it's not fashionable but I don't really care. I have had my wooden wall units and dining room table for over 40 years and it was not new when I got it. My DS has IKEA furniture and I think it's flimsy compared to mine.

I'm still plugging away here. I've had quite a bit of 'new to me' stuff from vinted, which was necessary due to not having any clothes that fit me. I've made it a rule that I can only spend from my vinted balance, so I'm treating it a bit like a library, buying and selling but cost neutral to me. This also limits me to only getting what I really need / want, rather than impulse buying loads because I can.
I think going forward, the only new stuff I'll buy will be underwear, and I'll try and get stuff that will last well - any recommendations gratefully received.
I've also done quite well swapping plants and seedlings, even managed to trade some for eggs 😁

I have another book recommendation for those who liked Less. Craftland by James Fox. I’m only a few chapters in but adoring it. It’s sent me down a bodger shaped rabbit hole. Have a look at this skill!!

https://www.bbc.co.uk/videos/cp0gz9gm8z8o