The Classic City Rotary of Athens Eco Passport is a year-long initiative to encourage members to engage in eco-friendly activities and promote environmental awareness. Members earn points by completing various sustainable actions, such as recycling, composting, attending environmental talks, and participating in service projects. ECORotary@sosuin.org
Eco Passport Item # 27 – “Use refillable cleaning supplies and naturally derived cleaners.”
By Salome Alvarez, Southern Sustainability Institute, Athens, GA
Email: Blog@sosuin.org
Making the switch to refillable, naturally derived cleaners is a small change that can lead to a big impact on our health, our wallets, and the environment. In Athens, where many residents are already committed to eco-friendly choices, using refillable cleaning supplies and plant-based cleaners is a practical way to take green living to the next level. By refilling cleaning products and choosing natural alternatives, you’re supporting a cleaner, healthier home and a more sustainable Athens.
This simple swap can reduce plastic waste, lower your exposure to harsh chemicals, and contribute to a cleaner environment—all without sacrificing effectiveness. Refillable and naturally derived cleaners are easy to find in stores around Athens, making it simpler than ever to make a positive change.
A Quick History of Green Cleaning
Using natural ingredients for cleaning isn’t new—it’s how our grandparents kept their homes fresh before commercial cleaners took over. Simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils were the go-to staples for disinfecting and polishing surfaces. As modern awareness of chemical sensitivities and environmental impact has grown, many people are returning to these natural, safer solutions.
In Athens, refilling stations and eco-friendly products are now readily available at local stores and co-ops. The refill movement, along with naturally derived cleaning products, has become part of a wider community effort to reduce single-use plastics and adopt healthier, more sustainable options.
Why Choose Refillable and Naturally Derived Cleaners?
Switching to refillable cleaning supplies and plant-based ingredients isn’t just good for the planet; it’s also good for you and your family. Here’s why making this change is beneficial:
- Reduce Plastic Waste: By choosing refillable cleaning supplies, you’re cutting down on single-use plastic bottles that often end up in landfills. Many products now offer refill stations, where you can bring your own containers to fill up on everything from all-purpose cleaners to laundry detergent, significantly reducing your household plastic waste.
- Safer for You and Your Family: Traditional cleaners often contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful when inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Naturally derived cleaners made from plant-based ingredients are gentler and safer, especially for families with children or pets. They’re effective at cleaning without leaving behind toxic residues.
- Support Local Businesses: In Athens, several local stores and markets now carry refillable and eco-friendly cleaning supplies. By shopping locally, you’re supporting small businesses that share a commitment to sustainability, all while reducing your environmental impact.
- Better for the Environment: Using plant-based, biodegradable cleaners reduces pollution in our waterways, which benefits local ecosystems and wildlife. Synthetic chemicals from traditional cleaners can wash down our drains and contaminate rivers and lakes, while natural cleaners break down safely and don’t pose a threat to the environment.
- Cost-Effective in the Long Run: Many refillable cleaning options are available in bulk and can be more economical over time. Refillable supplies mean you only pay for the cleaner itself, without the cost of new packaging every time, saving you money in the long run.
- Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: Refillable products typically have a lower carbon footprint due to reduced packaging and shipping requirements. By using refillable cleaning supplies, you’re making a more sustainable choice that helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
How to Start Using Refillable and Naturally Derived Cleaners in Athens
Ready to make the switch? It’s easier than you might think, and Athens has plenty of options to help you get started:
- Find a Local Refill Station: Athens is home to refill stations where you can bring your own containers and refill everything from dish soap to all-purpose cleaner. Check out places like local co-ops, health food stores, or eco-focused shops in the area. Bring your empty bottles and refill as needed to reduce waste.
- Choose Biodegradable, Plant-Based Cleaners: Many naturally derived cleaners are available in grocery stores around Athens, and they’re formulated with ingredients like vinegar, essential oils, and coconut-based detergents. Look for trusted eco-friendly brands, or make your own using simple household ingredients!
- Switch Out One Cleaner at a Time: You don’t have to overhaul your cleaning supplies all at once. Start with one or two items, like an all-purpose cleaner or laundry detergent, and gradually replace your traditional cleaners with natural, refillable options.
- DIY Natural Cleaners: For a fun, budget-friendly alternative, try making your own cleaners at home. Basic recipes using vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice work wonders for most household cleaning tasks. You can even add essential oils for a fresh scent and additional disinfecting power.
- Buy in Bulk: When refilling isn’t possible, buying eco-friendly cleaners in larger quantities can reduce packaging waste. Larger containers of natural cleaning products can be found at local stores, reducing the need for frequent purchases and minimizing plastic use.
- Opt for Concentrates: Some eco-friendly cleaners come in concentrated forms that you dilute at home, allowing you to reuse the same container and reduce plastic waste. Concentrated formulas often pack the same cleaning power but with less packaging.
The Impact of Refillable and Natural Cleaners on Athens’ Environmental Goals
Athens-Clarke County is committed to sustainability, with initiatives aimed at waste reduction, recycling, and green living. By using refillable and naturally derived cleaning supplies, you’re helping Athens move closer to these goals. Every refill, every biodegradable cleaner, and every reduction in plastic waste makes a difference, helping keep our local community healthier and more sustainable.
Organizations like Rotary in Athens support local environmental initiatives and encourage residents to take small, positive actions that collectively have a huge impact. Simple steps like choosing refillable and natural products align with this mission and make a meaningful contribution to Athens’ future.
Join the Movement: Make Athens Cleaner and Greener
Switching to refillable cleaning supplies and natural, plant-based products is an easy way to support a sustainable Athens. With the support of local businesses and a commitment to reducing waste, Athens residents can make greener choices and create a healthier environment.
Start by replacing one product at a time, refilling bottles, and choosing safer ingredients for your home. You’ll soon notice the benefits—not only for your family but also for the community. So next time you’re shopping for cleaning supplies, think refillable and natural. It’s a small choice that can have a big impact for Athens and beyond!
Resources:
https://zerohourclimate.org/use-natural-cleaning-products-climate-change/
https://www.theguardian.com/wellness/2023/nov/30/eco-friendly-cleaning
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/eco-friendly-cleaning-products-vs-regular-oq9qe/