We’ve all been there. Scrolling through social media or reading an article about the climate crisis, and thinking "I really should really start making changes.”  Maybe adding reusable shopping bags in the car, or resolving to cut-down on single-use plastics when planning parties. But then life gets in the way – work deadlines, family commitments, or simply forgetting to take a reusable cup to the café.

The gap between intention and action is a natural part of human behaviour. It doesn’t mean we don’t care about the environment; it just highlights how challenging it can be to translate good intentions into habits.

One of the biggest hurdles is convenience. Single-use plastics and disposable items are everywhere, making them hard to avoid, especially when time is short. Another factor is overwhelm – there are marketplaces now which are inundated with products it can be hard to find what you need, so easier to go with what is familiar than spending time (another hurdle) trying to find more environmentally friendly alternatives.

So how do we close this gap without guilt or judgement? Here are a few tips we use to help make changes in the coming year:

  1. Start Small: Focus on one change at a time. Whether it’s taking a reusable bottle to work, saying no to plastic packaging on carrots, or deciding to buy reusable bunting for the next party - small steps build momentum.

  2. Make It Easy: Keep reusables where you’ll need them – carrier bags in the car, a travel mug in your backpack, or find a niche marketplace which sells what you’re looking for (hint: Party Without Plastic® is great for plastic-free party supplies!)

  3. Celebrate Progress: Every single action counts. Celebrate each success, no matter how small, and acknowledge the effort that you’re making.

  4. Build Community: Share your journey with friends or online groups. Having others to support and inspire you can make the process more enjoyable.

By recognising that the gap between intention and action is part of the journey, we can approach change in a way that is kind to ourselves and others. The key is not perfection, but persistence. Every step forward is a win for the planet 🌍💚

What small action will you take today? Let’s bridge the gap between intention and action... one choice at a time.

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