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I think the first major thing I am struggling with is how inaccessible sustainable products are in the city I am living in for my masters program. While I could drive an extra 20 to 30 minutes to get to a bulk store or place orders on multiple websites, I am on a tight budget as a grad student and don’t want to put any extra miles on my car if I don’t need to. Plus, the city I am in is an expensive place to live, which means that the prices on sustainable goods are much higher than they should be because people have the extra disposable income to spare (but I sure don’t!). This results in me shopping at the closest grocery store and making do with what they offer, which is usually buying things in cardboard and the largest size possible. And that sucks! As you all saw in my plant-based grocery haul, I was used to absolutely acing sustainable grocery shopping – now, I have to resort to packaging to get some of my essentials. It almost feels like I am backtracking in my journey, as all I want to do is utilize a bulk bin section.
While I do feel like I am taking a small step backwards in my sustainable journey, I do know that when I finish this program I will be able to hit the ground running again. The city I am moving to is the same place I have interned at these past two summers, so I know that there are places nearby where I can buy sustainable products at fair prices. I also will be living with my boyfriend next year, and even though he is not as on board with the whole zero waste thing, I know that he will let me buy the things I want and do the things I want to do.
What have you been struggling with recently?
Love,
Jenna ♥