Thanks to the popularity of sustainable living, there are many fashionable options for people who are both style and eco-conscious. As we emerge from lockdown, many of us are looking forward to a fun trip to the beach with friends or family, and there’s no better time to look and feel our very best – without harming the planet.
Here are some of the essential and sustainable items to take to the beach this summer.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a staple of summer style. You can check out 9five.com, which will provide you with perfect sunglasses. They can protect your eyes from the sun’s rays and keep you comfortable and relaxed all day long. With styles changing so often, it can be tempting to buy in a new pair each year but to be most sustainable it is better to invest in a high-quality eco-friendly brand instead. For instance, there are some beautiful brands out there that make gorgeous fashionable sunglasses from sustainable bamboo rather than plastic.
Flip Flops
Another classic beach favourite, flip flops, are the perfect footwear when out at the beach. Easy to clear away the sand after a day in the sun, and often waterproof flip flops are a must for any beach trip.
You can buy cheap plastic flip flops from major supermarkets and retailers, but these are rarely ethically sourced or long lasting, meaning they can contribute to the significant amount of plastic waste polluting beaches worldwide each year. You might instead consider flip flops made from sustainable materials or that use recycled plastic waste.
Beachwear
The right clothes are crucial for a beach trip. Along with plastic-free swimwear, you could consider other ethically sourced materials to use for your beach outings. It is worth researching brands that might high-quality, long-lasting clothes that will last you for many summers to come.
For an idea of the gorgeous style and wide range of clothing options you could find in a sustainable retailer, check out Luella Fashion. With clothes made ethically from the highest quality materials, Luella is a prime example of sustainable fashion.
Tote Bag
A totes bag is perfect for carrying all your beach items, as well as snacks and drinks for the day ahead. There are some fantastic options to buy insulated beach tote bags that combine sturdy, eco-friendly materials with the latest style. Any kind of reusable bag is much better for the environment than a single-use product, though it’s always better to select sustainable materials that will recycle well at the end of their lifespan.
Sunscreen
Some sunscreens contain ingredients that are harmful to the ocean’s delicate eco-systems, like reefs. Fortunately, you can find plenty of effective alternatives with none of the harmful ingredients so that you can take a guilt-free dip in the ocean.
Beach Towel
Towels, like other materials, often shed tiny fibres when used. This means that you could be leaving behind waste plastic at the beach without even realising it. Instead, you could consider investing in beach towels made from soft, comfortable and sustainable materials like cotton, linen or hemp. There are also companies that make towels from recycled plastics.