Curation is the intentional choice of quality over quantity, and this can be used to have a more sustainable way of living. Sustainability can apply to everything, whether this is the clothing you wear, the furniture you use or the global systems that you support. In order to live sustainably, you need to think about how your choices have an impact on the world, and stop investing in fleeting trends in favour of lasting items.

The Conscious Wardrobe

There are several ways you can try to make your wardrobe more sustainable. When investing in new jewellery, you should consider the ‘heirloom’ approach. This means that you invest in timeless pieces instead of opting for costume trends that can be wasteful. For example, choose ethical, lab-grown or recycled diamond rings as investment pieces that will remain timeless instead of choosing jewellery that follows fast fashion trends. Additionally, when shopping for new accessories, look for those that have followed the shift towards more durable, responsibly sourced materials. Buying a high-quality handbag or accessory will reduce your carbon footprint, as these will last for decades as opposed to months. Vegan leather handbags are a primary example of how material innovation has allowed for style, but has not compromised environmental or animal welfare values.

The Ethical Living Room

As well as fast fashion negatively impacting the environment, fast furniture is also causing a crisis. ‘Fast furniture’ refers to mass produced furniture that is often made of cheap, low quality materials, meaning that it generally does not last for a long time. When shopping for new furniture, look for pieces that are made from reclaimed or FSC certified wood, as this means that the wood is either recycled or sourced from a responsibly managed forest. ‘Circular furniture’ is also a good option, as this is furniture that is made from recycled or sustainable materials and is designed to be easy to repair or taken apart to be reused again. For example, a reclaimed teak dining table gives old timber a second life, turning it into a centrepiece that is beautiful and eco-friendly.

Eco friendly textiles are another thing to look out for, as compared to synthetic materials they have a lower carbon footprint and consume less energy and water. By making more conscious choices, you can create a home environment that promotes environmental health and longevity.

The Modern Workspace

When thinking about sustainability, you should also think about how it can impact your physical health. This does not refer to environmental sustainability, but instead to physical sustainability. For example, an ergonomic office chair is not just a purchase, but is an investment in your long-term ability to work comfortably. It is a vital tool to prevent physical strain on your body, and it will be much better than cheaper furniture that you would have to throw away after a short while.

When looking at how sustainability can be incorporated into your working life, you can also look at corporate sustainability, which focuses on supporting businesses that treat people right. Global payroll services allow companies to hire ethically across borders, which ensures that their workers are paid fairly and legally, regardless of where they live. Companies that support a borderless workforce will rely on seamless global payments to ensure that their international teams are compensated fairly and on time.

The Invisible Infrastructure

The most overlooked part of a sustainable life is the resource cycles that are used. Modern wastewater technology protects local ecosystems and ensures that there is clean water for the future. By being aware of this, you can see how your lifestyle choices can affect these wider water cycles, such as the soap that you use or the industries that you support. Behind every eco-conscious home or office is a commitment to protecting natural resources, whether this is through a wastewater treatment system or something else.

The ROI of Intentionality

Unbeknownst to many people, cheaper can often be more expensive in the long run, whether this is socially, environmentally or financially. By consciously thinking about where you invest and who you support, you can have peace of mind knowing that your possessions (e.g. your office chair, furniture and jewellery) and your employer align with your values.

Moving towards having a more curated life does not need to be difficult, as you can start with small, simple changes. When curating, keep in mind that every purchase and professional choice is technically a ‘vote’ for the kind of world that you want to live in.