[English 101] ECO SHOPPING - Words for reusable bags, organic items, recycling

Teaching Material

1. I always carry a reusable bag when grocery shopping.
• Reusable bag (Noun) - A sturdy bag used multiple times instead of single-use plastic or paper bags.
• Use ‘reusable bag’ to reduce waste from single-use bags. It’s durable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly for daily shopping trips.
• A: Do you need a plastic bag? B: Nope, I brought my reusable bag.
• Tote - Use ‘tote’ as a stylish, reusable option that’s good for everyday tasks.
2. I prefer organic produce because it’s free from harsh chemicals.
• Organic produce (Noun phrase) - Fruits and vegetables grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
• Use ‘organic produce’ to emphasize healthier, eco-friendly crops. Ideal for those seeking natural, chemical-free foods.
• A: Where do you find organic produce? B: The farmers’ market often has fresh organic options.
• Natural produce - Use ‘natural produce’ if the farming methods are simpler but not strictly certified.
3. Choose items with recyclable packaging to cut down on waste.
• Recyclable packaging (Noun phrase) - Containers or wrapping that can be reprocessed into new products after use.
• Use ‘recyclable packaging’ when you want to highlight packaging materials that can be diverted from landfills.
• A: Is this box recyclable? B: Yes, just rinse it and put it in the blue bin.
4. These compostable cups will turn into soil-enriching matter.
• Compostable (Adjective) - Capable of breaking down into natural elements in a composting environment, leaving no toxic residue.
• Use ‘compostable’ to describe items that decompose quickly under the right conditions, returning nutrients to the earth.
• A: Should I throw this in the trash? B: It’s compostable, so toss it in the green bin.
5. We swapped plastic cutlery for biodegradable utensils.
• Biodegradable (Adjective) - Able to break down naturally via microorganisms without harming the environment.
• Use ‘biodegradable’ to emphasize materials that naturally degrade, reducing pollution and landfill buildup.
• A: Is this takeout container biodegradable? B: Yes, it should decompose over time.
6. I buy fair trade coffee to support farmers’ livelihoods.
• Fair trade (Adjective phrase) - An ethical standard ensuring fair wages and working conditions for producers, often in developing countries.
• Use ‘fair trade’ to ensure workers receive just compensation and safe working conditions, typically found on labels.
• A: Is this chocolate fair trade? B: Yes, the label confirms ethical sourcing.
7. Buying local produce reduces transportation emissions.
• Local produce (Noun phrase) - Fruits, vegetables, or other food products grown or made near where they are sold.
• Use ‘local produce’ to support nearby farmers, boost local economies, and cut down on food miles.
• A: Where can I find local produce? B: The farmers’ market on Saturdays is great.
8. I buy grains and nuts as bulk items to reduce plastic waste.
• Bulk items (Noun phrase) - Products sold in large quantities without individual packaging, often measured by weight.
• Use ‘bulk items’ when referring to purchasing goods in larger quantities using your own containers, lowering packaging waste.
• A: Why do you get bulk items? B: It’s cheaper and cuts down on unnecessary packaging.
9. She aimed for a plastic-free lifestyle to minimize her waste.
• Plastic-free (Adjective) - Not containing or using any plastic materials
• Use ‘plastic-free’ when emphasizing the total avoidance of plastic, important for eco-conscious living and shopping.
• A: Is this brand plastic-free? B: Yes, they use paper and glass packaging only.
10. Walking to the store instead of driving reduces my carbon footprint.
• Carbon footprint (Noun phrase) - The amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced by an individual, organization, or product
• Use ‘carbon footprint’ to discuss the environmental impact of daily actions, prompting more eco-friendly choices.
• A: How can I lower my carbon footprint? B: Try carpooling or shopping local.
11. I like to upcycle jars into decorative containers.
• Upcycle (Verb) - To creatively reuse items or materials, converting them into something of higher value
• Use ‘upcycle’ to showcase turning waste into better or more beautiful products, extending an item’s lifespan.
• A: That’s a cool candle holder. B: Thanks! I upcycled an old mug.
12. Sustainable shopping choices help protect the environment.
• Sustainable (Adjective) - Capable of being maintained over time without depleting natural resources
• Use ‘sustainable’ to highlight products or practices that preserve resources and cause minimal harm to the planet.
• A: Is bamboo a sustainable option? B: Yes, it grows quickly and needs fewer resources.
13. Adopting a zero-waste approach changed my shopping habits drastically.
• Zero-waste (Adjective phrase) - A philosophy aiming to generate no trash destined for landfills or incinerators
• Use ‘zero-waste’ to discuss living or shopping methods that minimize trash creation, often by reusing and recycling.
• A: How do you practice zero-waste? B: I reuse everything and compost food scraps.
14. We’re looking for eco-friendly cleaning products.
• Eco-friendly (Adjective) - Not harmful or less harmful to the environment
• Use ‘eco-friendly’ to describe products, services, or actions that strive to protect the environment.
• A: Any eco-friendly brands you recommend? B: Yes, look for the green seal on the label.
15. We can save plastic by using the refill station for laundry soap.
• Refill station (Noun phrase) - A place where customers can refill containers with bulk liquids like shampoo or detergent
• Use ‘refill station’ to describe locations offering bulk liquids to reduce single-use plastic packaging.
• A: Where’s the nearest refill station? B: At the eco-store downtown; bring your own bottle!
16. I choose earth-friendly packaging whenever possible.
• Earth-friendly (Adjective) - Similar to ‘eco-friendly,’ signifying minimal harm to the planet
• Use ‘earth-friendly’ interchangeably with ‘eco-friendly’ to emphasize low environmental impact choices.
• A: Are those earth-friendly products? B: Yes, they’re biodegradable and plastic-free.
17. These soaps are made with natural ingredients like coconut oil.
• Natural ingredients (Noun phrase) - Components derived from plants, minerals, or animals without chemical alteration
• Use ‘natural ingredients’ to promote products free from synthetic chemicals, beneficial for health and ecosystems.
• A: Why do you prefer natural ingredients? B: They’re gentler on my skin and the environment.
18. Check for an eco label to ensure the product meets green requirements.
• Eco label (Noun phrase) - A certification seal indicating environmental standards or sustainability criteria
• Use ‘eco label’ to identify reliable eco-certifications, guaranteeing certain green standards are met.
• A: Is there an eco label on this paper? B: Yes, it’s certified for responsible forestry.
19. Energy-efficient appliances can save money on electricity bills.
• Energy-efficient (Adjective) - Using less energy to perform the same task, reducing costs and environmental impact
• Use ‘energy-efficient’ when referring to products that conserve power, thus lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
• A: Is that fridge energy-efficient? B: Yes, it has a high efficiency rating.
20. This brand focuses on ethical sourcing for its cotton.
• Ethical sourcing (Noun phrase) - Obtaining materials or products in a responsible and morally sound manner
• Use ‘ethical sourcing’ when highlighting fair labor practices, eco-conscious raw materials, and transparent supply chains.
• A: Does this company follow ethical sourcing? B: Yes, they ensure fair labor and eco-friendly farms.
21. Look for a green seal on household cleaners for safer formulas.
• Green seal (Noun phrase) - A certification mark indicating a product meets certain environmental standards
• Use ‘green seal’ when pointing out recognized sustainability certifications, helping you shop more responsibly.
• A: Is that brand certified? B: Yes, it has a green seal on the label.
22. Cycling instead of driving is a low-impact way to travel.
• Low-impact (Adjective) - Having minimal or reduced effect on the environment
• Use ‘low-impact’ to promote practices or products that have a smaller ecological footprint, from travel to packaging.
• A: Is that business model low-impact? B: Yes, they reuse water and avoid waste.
23. We purchased a carbon offset to compensate for our flight’s emissions.
• Carbon offset (Noun phrase) - A way to balance out carbon emissions by investing in environmental projects like reforestation
• Use ‘carbon offset’ when discussing ways to counterbalance unavoidable carbon emissions. Often used for flights or shipping.
• A: How do I reduce my travel impact? B: Consider buying a carbon offset to fund green projects.
24. Shifting to renewable resources lowers fossil fuel dependency.
• Renewable resources (Noun phrase) - Natural assets like solar or wind energy that replenish quickly
• Use ‘renewable resources’ to advocate for materials or energy that can be repeatedly harvested without depletion.
• A: Are these materials from renewable resources? B: Yes, they come from sustainably managed forests.
25. I buy packaging-free shampoo bars to cut down on plastic.
• Packaging-free (Adjective) - Sold without any wrappers, boxes, or containers to reduce waste
• Use ‘packaging-free’ when referring to products sold bare or with minimal wrapping, lowering environmental impact.
• A: Where can I find packaging-free items? B: Try the zero-waste store downtown.
26. Bring a cloth grocery bag to avoid plastic at checkout.
• Cloth grocery bag (Noun phrase) - A reusable bag made of fabric for carrying groceries
• Use ‘cloth grocery bag’ to specifically describe a sturdy fabric option for repeated shopping trips.
• A: Need a bag for your groceries? B: No thanks, I have my cloth grocery bag.
27. Look for organic certification on produce to ensure it’s genuinely chemical-free.
• Organic certification (Noun phrase) - Official recognition that a product meets specified organic standards
• Use ‘organic certification’ when verifying the authenticity of eco-farming practices, ensuring trustworthy products.
• A: Is this fruit really organic? B: Yes, it has an organic certification.
28. I use glass containers to store leftovers instead of plastic ones.
• Glass container (Noun phrase) - A jar or bottle made of glass for storing or transporting goods
• Use ‘glass container’ to highlight a reusable, non-toxic storage solution that replaces disposable plastics.
• A: Where do you put the sauce? B: I keep it in a glass container for easy reuse.
29. Non-toxic cleaners keep your home and water supply safer.
• Non-toxic (Adjective) - Safe for humans and the environment, containing no harmful substances
• Use ‘non-toxic’ to describe products without dangerous chemicals, safeguarding health and ecosystems.
• A: Is this paint non-toxic? B: Yes, it’s water-based and eco-friendly.
30. Synthetic clothing sheds microplastics when washed.
• Microplastics (Noun) - Tiny plastic particles typically under 5mm, harmful to marine life and ecosystems
• Use ‘microplastics’ to emphasize the small yet significant pollutant that accumulates in waterways and food chains.
• A: Why avoid certain soaps with beads? B: Those microplastics end up polluting oceans.
31. Sustainable farming promotes healthy soil and biodiversity.
• Sustainable farming (Noun phrase) - Agricultural methods protecting ecosystems, conserving resources, and ensuring soil fertility
• Use ‘sustainable farming’ to highlight eco-conscious growing techniques reducing chemical use and preserving land.
• A: Where does this produce come from? B: A farm that practices sustainable farming.
32. These plates are compostable and degrade quickly in the right environment.
• Compostable (Adjective) - Breaks down into organic matter under compost conditions (duplicate entry note: included earlier; continuing for completeness)
• Use ‘compostable’ for items designed to decompose fully, returning nutrients to the soil. Check local compost guidelines.
• A: Can I add this plate to my compost bin? B: Yes, it's labeled compostable.
33. I carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and eco-friendly.
• Reusable water bottle (Noun phrase) - A refillable container for drinking water, reducing single-use plastic bottles
• Use ‘reusable water bottle’ to cut plastic waste and save money over time. It’s an easy green switch.
• A: Thirsty? B: I’m good, I have my reusable water bottle.
34. Some utensils are now made from bioplastics derived from cornstarch.
• Bioplastics (Noun) - Plastics made from renewable plant materials, often touted as more eco-friendly
• Use ‘bioplastics’ cautiously; they may still need industrial composting to fully break down. Always check local recycling rules.
• A: Are bioplastics better than regular plastic? B: Yes, they often degrade faster, but check disposal guidelines.
35. I keep reusable produce bags in my car for grocery shopping.
• Reusable produce bag (Noun phrase) - A mesh or cloth sack for carrying fruits and veggies, replacing plastic produce bags
• Use ‘reusable produce bag’ to avoid thin plastic sacks. Mesh or cotton versions are washable and durable.
• A: Need a plastic bag for that lettuce? B: Thanks, but I have my reusable produce bag.
36. Being eco-conscious means I try to buy sustainable items.
• Eco-conscious (Adjective) - Aware of environmental issues and acting responsibly to reduce harm
• Use ‘eco-conscious’ to describe a mindset or person who considers the planet in daily decisions.
• A: You seem so eco-conscious. B: I try to make small changes every day.
37. Buying second-hand clothes saves money and resources.
• Second-hand (Adjective) - Pre-owned or used goods, often sold at thrift stores or online platforms
• Use ‘second-hand’ to stress reusing existing items, reducing the demand for new production and waste.
• A: Where’d you get that jacket? B: It’s second-hand from a local thrift shop.
• Preloved - Use ‘preloved’ for a more affectionate way of saying second-hand or used.
38. Under pay-as-you-throw, you pay less if you generate less garbage.
• Pay-as-you-throw (Noun phrase) - A waste management model where households are charged based on the amount of trash they discard
• Use ‘pay-as-you-throw’ to discuss waste policies that encourage reducing and recycling to save money.
• A: How does pay-as-you-throw work? B: You buy trash bags or stickers that cost more if you throw out more.
39. Minimalist living helps me focus on necessities and cut unnecessary shopping.
• Minimalist living (Noun phrase) - A lifestyle focused on owning fewer possessions, reducing clutter and waste
• Use ‘minimalist living’ when describing a conscious effort to reduce consumption, thus benefiting the environment and simplifying life.
• A: Why’d you downsize so much? B: I adopted minimalist living to reduce waste and stress.
40. I try to shrink my environmental footprint by using less plastic.
• Environmental footprint (Noun phrase) - The total impact one’s actions have on the planet, including resources used and waste produced
• Use ‘environmental footprint’ to gauge or discuss the overall ecological effect of personal or group habits.
• A: What’s an environmental footprint? B: It’s basically how much you affect nature with your lifestyle.
41. I always try to shop local for fresh produce and handmade items.
• Shop local (Phrase) - Support local businesses and producers in your area
• Use ‘shop local’ when encouraging people to buy from nearby vendors, lowering carbon emissions and boosting local economies.
• A: Why shop local? B: It reduces transportation impact and supports community growers.
42. Our city implemented a plastic ban on single-use straws and bags.
• Plastic ban (Noun phrase) - A legal restriction on using or distributing certain plastic items
• Use ‘plastic ban’ when referring to policies that prohibit disposable plastics to safeguard the environment.
• A: Did you hear about the new plastic ban? B: Yes, we need to bring our own straw now.
43. Green living inspired me to compost and switch to reusable products.
• Green living (Noun phrase) - A lifestyle that aims to reduce harm to the environment through eco-friendly habits
• Use ‘green living’ to describe an overarching commitment to sustainability, covering energy use, waste reduction, and more.
• A: What started your green living journey? B: Realizing how much waste I produced daily.
44. I favor a sustainable brand that uses recycled materials for packaging.
• Sustainable brand (Noun phrase) - A company that prioritizes eco-friendly and ethical practices throughout its operations
• Use ‘sustainable brand’ to highlight businesses devoted to minimal environmental impact, from sourcing to manufacturing.
• A: Any suggestions for a sustainable brand? B: Check the eco certifications and mission statements.
45. Buying local lowers food miles and carbon output.
• Food miles (Noun phrase) - The distance food travels from producer to consumer, impacting carbon emissions
• Use ‘food miles’ to discuss the travel footprint of groceries, emphasizing local, shorter supply chains.
• A: Those berries are from far away. B: Yes, their food miles are high, so I opt for local.
46. I use cruelty-free cosmetics to protect animal welfare.
• Cruelty-free (Adjective) - Products developed without testing on animals
• Use ‘cruelty-free’ when highlighting products that respect animal rights and avoid harmful testing procedures.
• A: Is that shampoo cruelty-free? B: Yes, it has a bunny logo confirming no animal testing.
47. Green packaging cuts down on plastic waste in landfills.
• Green packaging (Noun phrase) - Environmentally conscious wrapping or containers, often recyclable or biodegradable
• Use ‘green packaging’ to describe eco-conscious alternatives, reducing environmental harm.
• A: How do I identify green packaging? B: Look for recycled materials or compostable labels.
48. We decided to go green by switching to renewable energy.
• Go green (Phrase) - To adopt more eco-friendly habits or strategies
• Use ‘go green’ as a motivational phrase encouraging environmental responsibility in daily life or at an organizational level.
• A: Why go green now? B: It’s never too late to reduce our impact.
49. I prefer clothes made from organic cotton to reduce chemical exposure.
• Organic cotton (Noun phrase) - Cotton grown without synthetic chemicals or pesticides
• Use ‘organic cotton’ for more sustainable, gentler clothing and textile choices, beneficial to farmers and ecosystems.
• A: Is this T-shirt organic cotton? B: Yes, it’s certified, so it’s safer for skin and soil.
50. They only source ethically made garments to ensure worker well-being.
• Ethically made (Adjective phrase) - Produced under fair labor practices and safe working conditions
• Use ‘ethically made’ to spotlight fair production standards, covering wages, conditions, and worker rights.
• A: Are those jeans ethically made? B: Yes, the brand supports fair wages.
51. Using a reusable straw significantly cuts plastic waste.
• Reusable straw (Noun phrase) - A straw made from durable materials like metal, glass, or bamboo, used multiple times
• Use ‘reusable straw’ to reduce single-use plastic. It’s a simple swap for everyday drinks.
• A: Need a straw? B: I have my reusable straw in my bag, thanks.
52. A circular economy thrives on reusing resources instead of discarding them.
• Circular economy (Noun phrase) - An economic model aimed at eliminating waste, keeping products and materials in use
• Use ‘circular economy’ for discussions on systemic change, encouraging continuous resource loops rather than linear use.
• A: How does the circular economy work? B: By designing items for reuse, repair, and recycling.
53. Watch out for greenwashing tactics in some product advertisements.
• Greenwashing (Noun) - Misleading claims by a company to appear more eco-friendly than it actually is
• Use ‘greenwashing’ to highlight false or exaggerated environmental claims, urging deeper research into brands.
• A: Is this brand really sustainable or just greenwashing? B: Let’s check their certifications and transparency.
54. Switch to refillable containers for hand soap to cut plastic waste.
• Refillable containers (Noun phrase) - Bottles or jars you can replenish repeatedly instead of discarding
• Use ‘refillable containers’ to advocate repeated usage, preventing single-use bottle disposal.
• A: Need a new soap bottle? B: No, I just refill my current one.
55. This packaging is bio-based, made from corn instead of plastic.
• Bio-based (Adjective) - Derived from living organisms, such as plants or agricultural waste, instead of petroleum
• Use ‘bio-based’ to point out products sourced from renewable materials, often more earth-friendly than petroleum.
• A: Is that bag plastic? B: No, it's bio-based and breaks down faster.
56. I feel safer with pesticide-free vegetables for my kids.
• Pesticide-free (Adjective) - Grown without the use of chemical pesticides
• Use ‘pesticide-free’ when highlighting cleaner, healthier produce that also protects soil and water.
• A: Are those apples pesticide-free? B: Yes, they’re from an organic orchard.
57. This café serves locally-sourced ingredients to ensure freshness and lower food miles.
• Locally-sourced (Adjective) - Obtained from nearby farms or producers, reducing transportation and supporting local economies
• Use ‘locally-sourced’ to underscore eco-conscious procurement and community support in shopping or dining.
• A: Are the veggies locally-sourced? B: Yes, they come from a farm just 20 miles away.
58. We visit the farmers’ market every weekend for fresh fruits and veggies.
• Farmers’ market (Noun phrase) - A public market where local farmers sell fresh produce and goods directly to consumers
• Use ‘farmers’ market’ to highlight places where you can buy local, often organic produce, supporting small-scale growers.
• A: Is the farmers’ market open today? B: Yes, let’s go early for the best selection.
59. Her upcycled clothing line turns old denim into stylish jackets.
• Upcycled clothing (Noun phrase) - Garments created or modified from pre-existing fabric or clothes, giving them a renewed life
• Use ‘upcycled clothing’ to reduce waste by transforming used textiles into new, unique apparel.
• A: Where’d you get that cool top? B: It’s upcycled clothing made from a thrifted dress!
60. Proper waste segregation helps recycling facilities work efficiently.
• Waste segregation (Noun phrase) - Separating garbage into categories like recyclable, compostable, and landfill
• Use ‘waste segregation’ when emphasizing sorting trash at the source, aiding recycling and composting efforts.
• A: Where do I throw this can? B: In the recycling bin—waste segregation is key!
61. She’s passionate about low-waste living, from shopping to cooking.
• Low-waste (Adjective) - Generating minimal trash, often by reusing, recycling, or composting
• Use ‘low-waste’ to highlight mindful consumption practices that significantly cut down on overall trash.
• A: How do you maintain a low-waste routine? B: I shop in bulk and refuse unnecessary packaging.
62. I pack lunches in reusable containers to avoid throwaway boxes.
• Reusable container (Noun phrase) - A sturdy box or jar, often plastic or glass, that can be washed and used again
• Use ‘reusable container’ for food storage or transport. They reduce single-use packaging and save money.
• A: Do you want a disposable to-go box? B: I have my reusable container, thanks!
63. We offer biodegradable bags for produce and bakery items.
• Biodegradable bag (Noun phrase) - A bag that breaks down naturally over time, often made of plant-based materials
• Use ‘biodegradable bag’ when plastic-free alternatives aren’t available, but remember correct disposal is still crucial.
• A: Should I take the plastic bag? B: Opt for a biodegradable bag if you need one.
64. Toss your plastic bottles in the recycling bin instead of the trash.
• Recycling bin (Noun phrase) - A designated container for items like paper, plastic, and metal to be recycled
• Use ‘recycling bin’ to ensure items can be sorted properly, facilitating waste management and resource recovery.
• A: Where’s your recycling bin? B: It’s the blue one by the door.
65. This skincare range is all-natural, free from synthetic dyes.
• All-natural (Adjective) - Containing only ingredients from nature, with minimal processing
• Use ‘all-natural’ to emphasize products with no synthetic additives, though always verify labels for authenticity.
• A: Is that soap all-natural? B: Yes, just essential oils and herbs.
66. An energy-saving lightbulb can cut your power bill over time.
• Energy-saving (Adjective) - Designed to reduce the amount of electricity or fuel used
• Use ‘energy-saving’ to highlight reduced electricity consumption, which lowers environmental impact and expenses.
• A: Why switch to LED? B: They’re energy-saving and last longer.
67. I prefer handmade soaps from small artisans.
• Handmade (Adjective) - Crafted by hand rather than mass-produced by machines
• Use ‘handmade’ to emphasize artisanal quality, supporting small-scale producers and often reducing industrial pollution.
• A: Is this scarf handmade? B: Yes, a local crafter knitted it.
68. I visit the refill shop monthly for shampoo and dish soap.
• Refill shop (Noun phrase) - A store offering bulk liquids and goods for customers to refill their containers
• Use ‘refill shop’ to describe specialty stores helping customers cut down on packaging waste by reusing containers.
• A: Where do you buy zero-waste supplies? B: At the refill shop with my own jars.
69. This brand’s social responsibility extends to fair labor and environmental care.
• Social responsibility (Noun phrase) - An ethical framework suggesting companies or individuals have an obligation to act for society’s benefit
• Use ‘social responsibility’ when discussing broader ethical commitments that also encompass environmental stewardship.
• A: Is this company socially responsible? B: Yes, they donate profits to eco-friendly causes.
70. Their packaging uses 80% post-consumer materials, reducing new resource extraction.
• Post-consumer materials (Noun phrase) - Resources made from previously used products that have been recycled
• Use ‘post-consumer materials’ to indicate content repurposed from recycled waste, closing the loop on resource use.
• A: Are these boxes from recycled content? B: Yes, all from post-consumer materials.
71. Our green initiative includes tree planting and a recycling drive.
• Green initiative (Noun phrase) - A project or policy focusing on environmental protection or sustainability
• Use ‘green initiative’ to describe organized efforts or campaigns promoting eco-friendly changes.
• A: What’s the new green initiative at work? B: We’re swapping plastic cups for reusable mugs.
72. My eco-savvy friend taught me how to compost at home.
• Eco-savvy (Adjective) - Knowledgeable about and skilled in environmentally friendly practices
• Use ‘eco-savvy’ to describe someone well-informed about green solutions, often sharing tips and leading by example.
• A: How did you become so eco-savvy? B: I researched sustainable blogs and joined local workshops.
73. A reusable mug keeps my coffee hot and reduces waste.
• Reusable mug (Noun phrase) - A cup made from durable materials, used multiple times for beverages
• Use ‘reusable mug’ for on-the-go drinks, cutting back on disposable cups that end up in landfills.
• A: Need a paper cup? B: No, I brought my reusable mug.
74. This snack brand focuses on sustainable packaging like paper and cornstarch films.
• Sustainable packaging (Noun phrase) - Wrappings designed to minimize environmental impact, often recyclable or biodegradable
• Use ‘sustainable packaging’ to praise or seek out companies using earth-friendly materials for product wrapping.
• A: Is that packaging eco-friendly? B: Yes, it’s labeled as sustainable packaging.
75. Clothes from natural fibers like linen are more breathable and eco-friendly.
• Natural fiber (Noun phrase) - A textile thread from plants or animals, such as cotton, wool, or hemp
• Use ‘natural fiber’ to highlight less plastic-based materials, often biodegradable and kinder to skin.
• A: Is this shirt synthetic? B: No, it’s 100% natural fiber cotton.
76. I switched to paperless billing to reduce paper waste.
• Paperless (Adjective) - Not using physical paper, instead relying on digital methods
• Use ‘paperless’ when referring to digital documentation, significantly cutting resource use and clutter.
• A: Want a print receipt? B: No thanks, I’ll go paperless and get an email copy.
77. Responsible shopping guides me to check for fair trade and organic labels.
• Responsible shopping (Noun phrase) - Making purchases that consider ethical, social, and environmental impacts
• Use ‘responsible shopping’ to emphasize mindful consumerism, factoring in production methods and eco-credentials.
• A: How do you practice responsible shopping? B: I research brands’ ethics before buying.
78. Opting for bamboo toothbrushes is a greener choice than plastic.
• Greener choice (Noun phrase) - An option that is more environmentally beneficial compared to alternatives
• Use ‘greener choice’ when comparing products or methods to highlight the eco-friendlier alternative.
• A: Which dish soap is a greener choice? B: The one with biodegradable ingredients.
79. Public transport is a climate-friendly way to commute.
• Climate-friendly (Adjective) - Having a reduced impact on climate change or lower greenhouse gas emissions
• Use ‘climate-friendly’ to underscore actions or items that help mitigate global warming and reduce CO2 output.
• A: Are electric cars really climate-friendly? B: They produce fewer emissions than gas vehicles.
80. Simple eco-habits like carrying a reusable water bottle can cut daily plastic waste.
• Eco-habits (Noun (plural)) - Regular practices that support environmental well-being
• Use ‘eco-habits’ to describe positive, repeated behaviors forming a greener lifestyle.
• A: Any eco-habits I can adopt quickly? B: Sure, try composting and skipping plastic straws.
81. Our goal is to become carbon-neutral by switching to solar power.
• Carbon-neutral (Adjective) - Achieving net-zero carbon emissions by balancing out or eliminating CO2 release
• Use ‘carbon-neutral’ to highlight balanced carbon output, often through cutting emissions and investing in offsets.
• A: Is the festival carbon-neutral? B: They offset emissions with tree planting.
82. Our household motto is reuse, reduce, recycle to limit waste.
• Reuse, reduce, recycle (Phrase) - A popular slogan encouraging lower consumption, reusing products, and recycling materials
• Use ‘reuse, reduce, recycle’ to guide eco-friendly actions by curbing waste, repurposing, and sorting recyclables.
• A: Should I toss this jar? B: Remember: reuse, reduce, recycle. Let’s wash it for storage.
83. Bulk buying rice and beans saves money and plastic.
• Bulk buying (Noun phrase) - Purchasing goods in large quantities to reduce packaging and cost
• Use ‘bulk buying’ to emphasize the eco and economic advantages of getting items in larger, less-packaged amounts.
• A: Why do you buy so much at once? B: It’s bulk buying to cut costs and waste.
84. I attended an upcycling workshop to learn DIY projects.
• Upcycling workshop (Noun phrase) - A class or event teaching how to convert old items into new, functional products
• Use ‘upcycling workshop’ to highlight community events that inspire creativity, waste reduction, and hands-on learning.
• A: What did you do last weekend? B: I joined an upcycling workshop and repurposed old jars.
85. Taking reusable cutlery for picnics helps avoid plastic waste.
• Reusable cutlery (Noun phrase) - Knives, forks, and spoons made of durable material, intended for repeated use
• Use ‘reusable cutlery’ to eliminate single-use plastic utensils, typically made from metal, bamboo, or durable plastic.
• A: Should we grab disposable forks? B: I have reusable cutlery in my bag.
86. I prepared an eco hamper with organic teas and reusable items.
• Eco hamper (Noun phrase) - A gift basket or collection of environmentally friendly products
• Use ‘eco hamper’ to gift a curated assortment of green products, promoting sustainable practices.
• A: Any gift ideas? B: An eco hamper full of zero-waste goodies is perfect!
87. Being a conscious consumer means researching brands before buying.
• Conscious consumer (Noun phrase) - A shopper who is aware of social, environmental, and ethical aspects of products
• Use ‘conscious consumer’ to encourage mindful purchasing decisions focusing on environmental and social responsibility.
• A: How do I become a conscious consumer? B: Check labels, certifications, and brand ethics.
88. I head straight to the organic aisle for fresh veggies and fruits.
• Organic aisle (Noun phrase) - The section of a store that carries certified organic products
• Use ‘organic aisle’ to refer to the dedicated section in supermarkets with chemical-free or certified organic items.
• A: Where’s the organic aisle in this store? B: It’s near the produce section on the left.
89. Green cleaning often relies on vinegar, baking soda, and non-toxic soaps.
• Green cleaning (Noun phrase) - Using eco-friendly methods and products for cleaning to reduce chemicals and toxins
• Use ‘green cleaning’ to describe safer, eco-conscious household chores without harsh chemicals.
• A: Any tips for green cleaning? B: Swap bleach for natural alternatives like lemon and vinegar.
90. Switching to beeswax wraps is a green alternative to plastic wrap.
• Green alternative (Noun phrase) - A more sustainable or eco-friendly option compared to a conventional product
• Use ‘green alternative’ when suggesting replacements that offer lower environmental impact than mainstream choices.
• A: Any green alternative for cling film? B: Beeswax wraps or silicone lids.
91. Reducing single-use items helps tackle plastic pollution.
• Plastic pollution (Noun phrase) - The accumulation of plastic objects and particles in the environment harming wildlife and habitats
• Use ‘plastic pollution’ to highlight the critical issue of plastic waste threatening ecosystems worldwide.
• A: Why refuse plastic straws? B: They contribute to plastic pollution in oceans.
92. Paper from sustainable forestry ensures trees are replanted.
• Sustainable forestry (Noun phrase) - Managing forests to meet current needs without compromising future resources
• Use ‘sustainable forestry’ to indicate practices that preserve biodiversity, soil health, and long-term forest viability.
• A: Is that wood sourced responsibly? B: Yes, from a sustainable forestry program.
93. A low-carbon diet focuses on local, plant-based meals.
• Low-carbon diet (Noun phrase) - A way of eating that minimizes greenhouse gas emissions, often by reducing meat and processed foods
• Use ‘low-carbon diet’ to describe eating habits that help mitigate climate change through mindful food choices.
• A: Why go for a low-carbon diet? B: It lowers my environmental footprint significantly.
94. I switched to cloth napkins to reduce paper waste at meals.
• Cloth napkins (Noun phrase) - Washable, reusable napkins made of fabric instead of disposable paper
• Use ‘cloth napkins’ to cut daily paper use and add a touch of elegance while reducing waste.
• A: Need paper napkins? B: I’ll use cloth napkins—it’s more eco-friendly.
95. This supermarket introduced a plastic-free aisle for conscious customers.
• Plastic-free aisle (Noun phrase) - A dedicated section in a store offering products with no plastic packaging
• Use ‘plastic-free aisle’ to seek out packaging-free or minimal-plastic options in larger retailers.
• A: Have you visited the plastic-free aisle yet? B: Yes, everything there comes in glass or paper.
96. I switched to refillable deodorant to reduce plastic tubes in landfills.
• Refillable deodorant (Noun phrase) - A container for deodorant that allows cartridge refills instead of throwing away the entire packaging
• Use ‘refillable deodorant’ for personal care items aimed at reducing single-use plastic packaging.
• A: Where’d you get that deodorant case? B: It’s refillable, so I just replace the inside stick.
97. We seek environmentally-friendly solutions in every department.
• Environmentally-friendly (Adjective) - Similar to eco-friendly; less harmful to the planet
• Use ‘environmentally-friendly’ as a broad descriptor for products or actions supporting planetary health.
• A: Is this brand environmentally-friendly? B: Yes, it avoids toxic dyes and uses recyclable packaging.
98. My bag is made of vegan leather from pineapple fibers.
• Vegan leather (Noun phrase) - A leather-like material made from synthetic or plant-based sources, without animal products
• Use ‘vegan leather’ to highlight cruelty-free, non-animal alternatives that can lower environmental impact depending on sourcing.
• A: Is that real leather? B: No, it’s vegan leather, so no animals were used.
99. I bought a solar-powered charger for my phone to save electricity.
• Solar powered (Adjective phrase) - Operating on energy harnessed from the sun
• Use ‘solar powered’ to note devices fueled by renewable sunlight, cutting reliance on fossil fuels.
• A: Is that lamp solar powered? B: Yes, it charges all day and lights up at night.
100. Our community’s tree planting event helps fight local deforestation.
• Tree planting (Noun phrase) - The act of planting trees to restore forests, absorb CO2, and enhance biodiversity
• Use ‘tree planting’ when talking about hands-on reforestation efforts that sequester carbon and improve habitats.
• A: Want to join the tree planting drive? B: Absolutely, let’s re-green the neighborhood!
101. A thorough life cycle assessment shows where eco improvements are needed.
• Life cycle assessment (Noun phrase) - An analysis of a product’s total environmental impact, from raw materials to disposal
• Use ‘life cycle assessment’ to evaluate full environmental footprints, guiding better design and consumer choices.
• A: Why do an LCA on coffee cups? B: To see the true cost of paper vs. reusable cups.