We talk with local residents who have embraced environmentally friendly lifestyles and practices, and invited them to give their tips on how you can do the same!

Learn from our Green Living Champions

Helen, Nunawading

1. How did you start your green living journey? 

In our youth, my brother and I were taken on frequent camping trips to the bush, where our parents introduced us to the wonders of nature. It stands to reason then that this nature appreciation journey gradually evolved into a lifelong Green Living Journey. Because our family was and has never been financially affluent, we instinctively followed the seven R’s system of Rethink-Refuse-Reduce-Re-choose-Repair-Reuse-Recycle, well before it became ‘a thing’. 

2. What have you learned along the way and how did this influence your lifestyle? 

These foundation years have led me to a lifestyle that is based around sustainability, simplicity and respecting our natural world. Living simply, I’ve learned, does not mean doing without or having less than others. I get a buzz from being frugal and hold back on buying excess stuff to fill the home. I’m always trying to be mindful about respecting our environment and doing the right thing by it. As such I make time to compost, bake bread and make my own shampoo/conditioner, washing liquid and cleaning products. I have also set up a small veggie garden and reap much joy, and food, in tending it. 

3. What are your three top tips for people starting out on their green living journey?

• Follow the Sustainable Living in Whitehorse Facebook page! And read books on reducing waste, recycling, downsizing and living simply, such as ‘Down To Earth’ by Rhonda Hetzel. 
• Start your green living journey s-l-o-w-l-y. You might too easily fall back into old habits, if you feel overwhelmed, so focus on changing and becoming more sustainable, a few things at a time. 
• When you are in need of some building material, try to avoid instinctively heading for the shops and buying. Instead, rummage around to see what you already have at home that will suffice just as well. It’s a great opportunity to be creative, prevents accumulating stuff and saves on the hip pocket.