Happy Earth Day–not just today (April 22) but every day. How we care of our planet matters, and it truly makes all the difference. Sustainability isn’t just a trend–it’s a lifestyle that Latinas have been living and passing down for generations. Many of our everyday habits and cultural traditions reflect eco-conscious values, proving that sustainability is deeply rooted in our communities. 

Read on to discover some of the sustainable practices passed down through generations–or pick up a few new ways to live more mindfully and protect our Earth in your daily life!  

Everyday Sustainable Habits in Latina Households 

Latinas have long embraced a “go green” mentality–often without even labeling it that way. Here are just a few ways it shows up in everyday life: 

  • Think Reusable Everything: From bolsas del mandado to repurposed Tupperware (who else found salsa in the butter container?), we get creative and reuse what we have. The possibilities are endless
  • Adopt the Multipurpose Mindset: Think about different ways to reuse glass jars, pass down clothes to younger relatives, or shop your mom or abuela’s closet for upcycled vintage gems✨
  • Zero-Waste Kitchen: Keep an eye on fruits and vegetables that are starting to turn–freeze them for smoothies, juicing, or future meals  
  • Natural Products FTW: Many of us use natural, non-toxic products that are gentle on the environment, our fur babies, little ones, and ourselves 

Conscious Consumerism 

Conscious consumerism is a value many of us grew up with–thanks to our abuelitas reminding us to only take what you need. This “less is more” mindset extends into how we shop today. 

  • Support small and local businesses: From mercados (farmers markets) to small Latinx-owned shops, investing in local businesses feels good and does good
  • Minimalism meets cultura: Choose the items that are meaningful and practical over the trendy fast fashion. This way we are moving with intention
  • Be mindful with purchases: As you’re out doing the shopping, ask yourself–do I need this, or do I just want it? 

Generational Practices & Eco-Friendly Beauty 

This is where cultura and sustainability collide. Many of our beauty and wellness habits are handed down through generations–and they just so happen to be eco-friendly too. 

  • DIY beauty: Avocado masks for shine, lemon juice for natural highlights, aloe vera for skin–our beauty rituals are rooted in nature. ( We wrote an article about the beauty hacks that have been passed down through generaciones de mujeres–Generational Beauty: Cultural Beauty Hacks Revealed)
  • Natural remedies: Herbal teas, plantas medicinales, and other holistic approaches reduce reliance on packaged goods
  • Sustainable brands: Supporting cruelty-free and environmentally friendly conscious brands aligns with our values and respect for the earth 

At an early age, we are taught to give thanks, give back, and to never take more than what’s needed. May we continue to practice these small gestures that go the distance for our communities and our environment. 

Celebrate Earth Day the Latina Way 

Let’s do what we do best as a community: share knowledge, uplift each other, and celebrate en comunidad–juntas! Here are a few ways to celebrate with intention: 

  • Host a “swap party”:  Exchange gently loved clothes, books, or home goods with with friends and family 
  • Cook a no-waste meal: Use up produce or leftovers creatively and spend time together–a win-win 
  • Support Latina-owned brands: Whether it’s a shoutout, a purchase, or a share, amplify those doing the work! 

Sustainability isn’t new to our culture–it’s woven into how we live, how we were raised, and it is a reflection of how we care for our communities and environment. The generations before us modeled this mindful way of living, and now it’s our turn to lead by example. 

Let’s continue to honor our roots, protect the planet, and keep showing that living sustainably is part of who we are!🌎