Let’s not deny it, we’re pretty spoilt in Dubai.

And if you’re reading this, then you probably want to start making more sustainable choices, but don’t know where to start. And the word ‘sustainability’ seems kinda intimidating and impossible to achieve.

We got you covered, fam.

Get these eight simple hacks into your daily routine – and you’ll be right on your way to leading a more sustainable lifestyle!

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8. Local produce FTW

We can’t begin to count the benefits to buying local produce! Tomatoes, eggplants, zucchini and cucumbers are just some of the popular fruit and vegetables being grown in the UAE. The Ripe Market and Greenheart Organic Farms are some of the places to visit on your quest for local produce.

When you purchase local produce, you’re fighting back against global warming, supporting local farmers AND consuming fresh food. See? Win-win.

7. Or grow your own food (no, really)

Hear us out. Herbs like coriander, mint and parsley can be grown in small spaces and can thrive in Dubai’s harsh climate. To start your own herb garden, try the Dubai Garden Centre and the Plant Souk for basic supplies.

They’re a great way to add organic food to your diet and jazz up your kitchen space at the same time.

6. It’s as easy as flipping a switch

Turn off the lights when you leave the room. Remember, it’s the little things that can have a big impact.

(For the fashionistas, Here are 5 Reasons Why Sustainable Fashion is The New Stylish)

5. Ride the metro more often

We know, we know. The infamous Dubai heat rules out walking entirely, but the Dubai Metro is a convenient alternative to putting another car on the streets and emitting more global-warming gases.

If you’re still not convinced, try carpooling with a friend instead of driving separately.

4. Reuse your plastic shopping bags

Come on, we’re all guilty of this one. Think back – how many plastic bags have you used over the years while shopping for weekly grocery? Take a step toward sustainable living by reusing those plastic bags next time you pop down to the supermarket.

Or better yet, ditch the plastic bags entirely and purchase reusable eco-bags from grocery chains like Carrefour and Spinneys. Keep a spare bag in your car or at work in case of an unplanned shopping trip!

3. Water filters are the way to go

Dubai residents are notorious for drinking bottled water, but like plastic bags, the environmental costs are great. If you aren’t sure about the quality of your kitchen’s tap water, there are a variety of water filters on the market to help you make the switch. BRITA is a popular brand of water filters available on Souq. Take your pick – and start making a difference!

2. Plan your grocery shopping

Ever returned from the supermarket and realized you’d bought more than you needed? Or you’d forgotten to buy that important item and needed to make another grocery run?

Create a shopping list beforehand – and stick to it. That way you’ll avoid unnecessary grocery runs, reducing greenhouse emissions, AND reduce food waste at home. Simple, right?

(Sustainability does not mean boring! Check out this Gorgeous New Sustainable Cafe That Has Just Opened And It’s Just What Dubai Needs)

1. Don’t toss out junk items, donate them

Moving houses and saddled with old junk items? Well, think twice before you throw it away. Plenty of charities in Dubai accept second-hand furniture and appliances, then distribute it to the needy or recycle it. Dar Al Ber Society and Beit Al Khair are just few of the charities in Dubai that do so. Or breathe new life into old junk by giving it away to Take My Junk (800JUNK) and they’ll find a new home for it.

You’ll go to sleep knowing you’ve done your good deed for the day.