1. Reduce, Reuse
FD Market | Verde Bethlehem
fdmarketco.com | verdebethlehem.com
Cut your part in the proliferation of polluting plastics with sustainable household products and refillable bulk shopping. At Verde Bethlehem or FD Market (with locations in Emmaus and Easton) you can re-up glass bottles of dish soap, procure a plant-based bath pouf and otherwise outfit your home with versions of common items that can end up in the compost instead of the landfill.
2. Better Off Biking
South Mountain Cycle & Cafe
When it comes to the health of our planet, cars are not cute. Mass transit aside, biking as a way to get around is good for our earth and our bodies. If you've ever thought your errands or commute could be done on two wheels but you're not sure where to start, the folks at South Mountain Cycle & Cafe can match you with the best bike for your needs as well as a nice cup of java.
3. Plant Native
Parkland Nurseries Edge of the Woods Native Plant Nursery
parklandnurseries.net | edgeofthewoodsnursery.com
The local ecosystem has evolved a network of interconnected plants, animals and insects that need each other. Taking the time to make our yards part of that instead of obstructing the natural order with alien species means more continuity and support for the health of the region. Sustainable landscape architects at Parkland Nurseries can make sure your little oasis is kind to its community, or plant yourself from Edge of the Woods Native Plant Nursery, also based in Orefield.
4. Thrift It
The 330 Thrift
Fast fashion is now known as one of the Four (or more) Horsemen of the Apocalypse, and why fall for its toxic allure when the unique finds at resale stores can give a better opportunity to express your individual style? By buying secondhand, we reduce the demand for new products and the associated carbon emissions from manufacturing and transportation. Give it a try or find your new go-to hunting hot spot at The 330 Thrift in Bethlehem, a cute and carefully curated boutique.
5. Shop From Home
Willow Haven Farm
Having groceries delivered saves time and protects against extraneous impulse buys, and though it can feel a bit indulgent, it's got an eco-friendly edge. By making fewer trips to multiple households, grocery delivery vehicles keep their customers' individual cars off the road. Even some local CSAs deliver, like Willow Haven Farm in New Tripoli. Their offerings go beyond organic produce to supply breads, cheeses, eggs, coffee, pasta, cookies and lots more.
Published as “5 Things” in the April 2023 edition of Lehigh Valley Style magazine.
