Fast fashion, which refers to the low cost mass production of poor quality clothing for high profits, is an undoubtedly unsustainable industry. However, while the negative effects of fast fashion are easy to see, finding an ethical solution is less simple. In the past decade, as people have become more aware of the dangers of … Read moreGuide to Ethical Thrifting
Intersectionality is a term coined by lawyer, scholar, and advocate Kimberlé Crenshaw, which encompasses the overlap between various aspects of identity such as race and gender, and how these influence individuals’ experiences. When combined with environmentalism, which focuses on protecting the environment, intersectional environmentalism concentrates on understanding and addressing how social justice and environmental issues … Read moreHow to Make Your Environmentalism More Intersectional
For a few months now, I’ve been on hiatus from The Sustainable Awakening. I’ve been reconsidering my own views on sustainability and what I want this site to focus on moving forward. Just this past summer, I was so sure how I felt. I believed strongly that global warming could be solved by individuals making … Read moreReevaluating Sustainability and Privilege
Zoos have become a relatively controversial issue in the conversation of ethical animal treatment. Many zoos have been found to be problematic. Some of them provide such dismal habitats for animals that they’re downright depressing. There are many different problems zoos can have such as: small cages, lack of opportunities for animals to do activities … Read moreHow to Tell if a Zoo is Ethical
About a month ago, I attended a Renegade Craft Fair popup in Seattle. For those who don’t know, a Renegade Craft Fair is a marketplace featuring local artisans, food trucks, and other small businesses. The fair takes place in 12 different cities around the US. I absolutely recommend going, I had an amazing time. While … Read moreGoing to the Renegade Craft Fair Seattle
Choose One Aspect of Nature to Observe The next time you spend time in nature, focus on one animal, plant, or area of the landscape. Watch it live. Learn from it. I personally love to watch animals. Last time I went on a hike I had an opportunity to watch a squirrel eat. I was … Read moreFive Easy Ways to Get Closer to Nature
A great way to ensure you produce minimal waste is to dedicate a free day/period of time (depending on your schedule) towards preparing everything you might need during the week. This way, you won’t be rushed to get these things last minute, which might lead to less eco-friendly choices. Personally, I prefer to do this … Read moreHow to Prepare for a Low Waste Week
Everytime you buy something, you’re casting your vote about what you want to see companies do in the future. When you shop from a store like Walmart, you’re saying that the way they source and sell their products is acceptable. However, when you choose to support small businesses that sell locally made products sourced more … Read moreGuide to Shopping Locally
Hibiscus will always hold special place in my heart. Their vibrant petals make me dream of tropical summers and misty breezes. This spring, I visited Kaua’i Hawaii. Everywhere I went, lush hibiscus seemed to blossom. During downpours, the rain drops stuck to those flowers, perfect and still. Someday soon I plan to grow my own … Read moreHawaii Hibiscus Photo Series
Here are four easy ways to support pollinators (such as bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies) beyond donating.