Sustainable living made simple

25 Jun 2025

Sustainable living made simple: Eco tips for seniors

Sustainable living isn’t just for the young and trendy – it’s for everyone. In fact, many older Australians already practise sustainability without realising it. From growing your own veggies to avoiding waste, seniors are well placed to lead the way in living lightly on the planet.

It doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about doing what you can, with what you have, where you are. Every small step contributes to a healthier planet for future generations. And who better to show how it’s done than a generation that lives by the mantra ‘waste not, want not’.

Here are some simple, budget-friendly eco tips to help you live more sustainably without overhauling your lifestyle.

1. Reduce single-use plastics

Take reusable shopping bags, water bottles and containers with you when out and about. Choose loose produce over pre-packaged options – there are many reusable fresh produce shopping bag options, like Fruity Snacks (fruitysacks.com) and Ever Eco (evereco.com.au).  And say no to plastic straws or cutlery when dining out or taking away. These small changes add up fast. 

2. Embrace second-hand and repair culture

Whether it’s mending a shirt, upcycling furniture or buying pre-loved books and clothes, reusing items helps reduce landfill and saves money. Many seniors have the skills to fix what others throw away – put them to good use or join a local repair café. Repair cafés bring together volunteers skilled in repair and mending to fix household items brought in by members of the local community. The ‘fixer’ works with the owner to help them repair their item, while sharing the skills and knowledge in the art of repair… often over a cup of tea or coffee. 

3. Grow your own food

Even a small balcony can support a few pots of herbs, lettuce or cherry tomatoes. Growing your own produce not only reduces your carbon footprint by cutting down on packaging and transport, it’s also fresher, tastier and often more nutritious, as it’s picked at peak ripeness. As a bonus, home gardening saves money, encourages physical activity and promotes mental wellbeing through time outdoors and a sense of accomplishment. 

4. Switch to energy efficient appliances

When it’s time to replace whitegoods or lightbulbs, choose energy efficient models. Look for the Energy Rating label and LED lighting. Energy efficient appliances can use up to 50 per cent less electricity than older models, while LED lights use up to 80 per cent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last considerably longer, significantly lowering power bills and environmental impact. 

5. Get savvy with water use

Install water-saving showerheads, which can cut water use by up to 50 per cent and save around $100–$200 annually on water and energy bills. Fix leaking taps and water plants in the early morning or evening, which reduces evaporation, helping plants absorb more water and saving up to 30 per cent on water use. If possible, use a rainwater tank or greywater system for the garden. 

6. Declutter with purpose

Downsizing or tidying up? Donate items to charity, recycle responsibly and avoid dumping goods unnecessarily. Many local councils offer pick-up or recycling services for larger items. Alternatively, speak to your local Rotary club about initiatives they run. Many clubs hold annual book fairs and bike recycling initiatives, like the Rotary Club of Surfers Sunrise’s Wheelchair Trust, which turns old bikes into new wheelchairs for less fortunate communities.

7. Make your voice count

Support businesses and products that prioritise sustainability. Read labels, ask questions and use your consumer power to influence change. Joining community environment groups or seniors’ climate networks can amplify your impact.