Sustainability VS. Eco Friendly: What's the Difference?
- Julie Sandino
- 7 days ago
- 1 min read
People often use the words “eco-friendly” and “sustainable” interchangeably, but they can mean slightly different things.
Eco-friendly usually means something that helps reduce harm to the environment in the moment, like switching from plastic water bottles to reusable ones, drying your sheets on the clothesline instead of in the dryer, or using vinegar and water for cleaning.
Sustainability is more about the long-term picture. It’s creating systems and habits that can continue for years without wasting natural resources. Things like implementing solar energy and water conservation plans.
Sustainability looks different for everyone, and I believe it’s a spectrum. Some people go all in, while others simply try to make small, thoughtful changes! Small steps matter. It starts with being "mindful" of our resources. Instead of throwing out vintage furniture that is broken, we repair it! And who doesn't love thrifting! My favorite sustainable living tip is reusing or repurpsosing and items and giving it a second life instead of them going to landfill.
We’re not experts at The Bird Ranch, and we’re still learning, but I always remember what one of my mentors, Rhonda Lowe, instilled in me: believe that progress is better than perfection. I don’t think you have to be perfect to make a difference, but it’s about caring enough to start. So go fix that leaky faucet you have been putting off!