I'm Julie, the founder of My Better Way , the online eco-shop dedicated to plastic-free products, made in France and above all… Super practical for reducing waste!

But here, there's no question of getting bogged down in guilt-tripping. The idea is to adopt small, simple actions that are good for the planet and our wallets.

In this book, I offer advice on how to do less, but better. We'll explore together how to consume differently in the kitchen, bathroom, and around the house while saving money. Yes, you read that right: it's entirely possible to live a lighter, more eco-friendly life without breaking the bank.

So, ready to get started? Let's go!

Chapter 1: Understanding the concept of eco-responsibility

Before getting to the heart of the matter, I think it's important to clarify what we mean by "eco-responsibility," this trendy term that's used in every context imaginable! Basically, it's about making consumer choices that have a positive (or at least less negative) impact on the environment. This means favoring products that last, choosing products made in France, avoiding single-use items, and being mindful of waste. In my My Better Way shop, I select products that meet these criteria: solid cosmetics, reusable water bottles, washable cotton pads… In short, simple alternatives for consuming less but better .

Chapter 2: The financial benefits of an eco-friendly lifestyle

I can see you coming: "Okay Julie, that's all very nice, but doesn't it cost more to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle?"

Well, the good news is, no, not necessarily! Certainly, some products may seem more expensive to buy (I'm thinking for example of washable cottons or stainless steel water bottles), but in the long term, you make significant savings.

A simple example: the solid shampoo I sell in my shop lasts 3 times longer than a bottle of liquid shampoo! So it's an economical alternative in the long run.

And these kinds of small changes, when combined, can really lighten your budget.

In this article, I'll explain how consuming differently can really save you money in the long run . And I promise, without too much effort!

Chapter 3: Consuming less but better in the kitchen

The kitchen is a place where you can easily save money and reduce your environmental impact. You don't need to be a great chef or an activist to make a few simple adjustments that will make a difference.

3.1: Cooking and Reducing Food Waste

Making things yourself is often cheaper and better for the planet. Plus, if you prioritize local and seasonal produce, you not only reduce your carbon footprint but also save money by avoiding imported or processed products that are bad for your health! By planning your meals in advance or learning to cook with leftovers, you save money and reduce your environmental impact. Two birds with one stone!

3.2: Opt for durable and reusable utensils

If you take a quick look around your kitchen, you'll probably see lots of single-use plastic. Why not gradually replace these items with reusable and more sustainable versions? I'm thinking specifically of fabric food storage bags or beeswax wraps . It's a small investment, sure, but trust me, you'll never go back to plastic bags!

3.3: Washing dishes in an eco-friendly and economical way

In the kitchen, replacing disposable sponges with washable ones or a wooden dish brush is a great alternative. They're not only reusable but also much more durable. And what about dish soap? Marseille soap works wonders! It cleans dishes perfectly while being economical and natural. Unlike industrial products often full of harmful ingredients and sold in plastic bottles, Marseille soap is kind to the environment and your wallet. A small habit that makes a big difference!

Chapter 4: Consuming less but better in the bathroom

Let's now move on to the bathroom, another place where we can easily reduce our waste and save money.

4.1: Eco-friendly hygiene without plastic

Have you heard of solid cosmetics? If not, let me tell you all about them! Solid shampoos, soaps , deodorants… all of these come in plastic-free versions, and they last much longer than their liquid counterparts. Plus, they take up less space and are made with natural ingredients that are good for your skin and hair. A real revolution for your beauty routine!

4.2: Avoid disposable cotton

Each year, we use between 720 and 2,000 cotton pads per person. Cotton farming is one of the most polluting industries in the world, accounting for 24% of global pesticide production, some of which are recognized as highly dangerous. Furthermore, this plant is extremely water-intensive, requiring over 5,000 liters of water per kilogram grown. For makeup removal, it's better to choose a washable, eco-certified bamboo wipe or square . The added bonus? No product is needed; the fibers trap dirt simply with water.

4.3: Bye Bye Cotton Swab

Since January 2020, France has banned the sale of plastic cotton swabs, which have become a symbol of ocean pollution. WWF estimates that we release 11,200 tons of plastic into the Mediterranean Sea alone each year. Furthermore, we now know that the use of cotton swabs is not recommended by ENT specialists because it can lead to ear infections and other infections. Instead, invest in an Escurette , a washable ear cleaner made of wood and steel that can be washed and reused indefinitely!

Chapter 5: Consuming less but better at home

And finally, let's talk about the home, another place where we can adopt simple actions to consume better.

5.1: Making my own homemade cleaning products

Most household cleaning products we buy in stores are toxic to both the environment and our health. Yet, you only need a few basic products to effectively clean and sanitize your home: baking soda and washing soda , citric acid, white vinegar, black soap, or Marseille soap. In addition to being effective and natural, these products are incredibly economical!

5.2: Composting your organic waste

On average, each household can compost 100 kg of waste per year. Whatever my living situation, there's a way to compost. In a house: I opt for a personal composter in my garden. On my balcony: I choose a worm composter. If I don't have outdoor space, I can use a bag of LFC compost in my kitchen; it's odorless and insect-free—my preferred alternative. No more overflowing, smelly garbage! Plus, I get free, good compost for my plants!

5.3: Drying your laundry in the sun

Drying your laundry outdoors is both simple and eco-friendly. In addition to saving electricity by avoiding the tumble dryer, you extend the life of your clothes, as natural drying is much gentler on the fibers. Outdoors, your laundry has a fresh and pleasant scent, without the need for chemical fabric softeners. Plus, the sun is a natural bleaching agent. To take it a step further, I highly recommend using PINCINOX clothespins—unbreakable , with a lifetime guarantee!

Adopting an eco-friendly lifestyle is possible on a daily basis, and it can really help you save money while protecting the environment.

Every eco-friendly action , whether it's sorting your waste, choosing energy-efficient appliances, or consuming more mindfully, contributes to a more planet-friendly approach. So, together, let's make these small daily actions a habit for a more sustainable and economical future. 🌍