Life

7 Trendy Products That Are Actually Sustainable, Just In Time For Earth Day

Must-haves that are also eco-friendly? It’s a win-win for me.

by Michelle Guerrere

Spring has officially sprung. And with this sunny new season comes a slew of exciting occasions populating our once-vacant calendars. But if there’s one holiday you should keep on your radar this year — and go beyond just penciling it in — it’s Earth Day on Friday, April 22. The day of celebration got its start way back in the '70s, but the act of putting Mother Nature first has shown some serious staying power over the years, especially when you take the stats into consideration. If we continue on our current path, the world’s oceans will contain more plastic than fish by the year 2050, according to an alarming new prediction. But before you spiral into inevitable climate anxiety, here’s the good news: There are plenty of easy ways to Invest In Our Planet (this year’s Earth Day theme!).

Beyond planting a sapling or collecting garbage on the beach (both very noble efforts!) there are so many ways we can celebrate Earth Day and support sustainable initiatives all year round. That’s why Bustle teamed up with Boxed Water™ — a company on a mission to offer a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic water bottles — to scout out some of today’s top products that are 100 percent useful, totally time-saving, and just so happen to be eco-friendly to boot. Think: vegan and cruelty-free fragrances packed in recyclable containers and a sleek digital notebook that eliminates paper waste (hello, WFH dreams). Keep scrolling for our current faves that prove you can have the best of both worlds when it comes to shopping better.

500mL Boxed Water
Boxed Water
Whether you're hitting the gym or hosting a get-together on your rooftop, hydration is of the utmost importance, especially now that the weather is warming up. With multiple sizes to choose from, there's a Boxed Water product that fits your needs no matter what adventures lay ahead. The refillable packaging is crafted from 92 percent plant-based materials and the water is sourced near consumers to reduce the brand's carbon footprint, so you can do good for the earth and for your body all in one fell swoop.
$26
Tik Tok Bento Box
Sophie's Sustainables
Finally: a lunch container that looks cute — and is actually functional — for when eating at home just isn't in the cards. Made from wheat straw, these sweet and stackable bento boxes are BPA-free, with modular containers inspired by minimalist Japanese design. And did we mention they're microwavable and dishwasher-safe?
$20
Fragrance Discovery Set
By/Rosie Jane
Venture into the world of clean fragrance with this set of seven trial vials. From sweet rose and nude musk to sea spray and vanilla, you'll emerge with a new signature scent (or three). Each blend is made from safe and non-toxic ingredients and bonus: The bottles bottle just happen to be 100 percent recyclable — after you get at least four wears in, that is.
$25
Boxed Matcha 12 Pack
Boxed Water
When you need a little mid-day (or let's be honest, any time) lift, look no further than The Art of Tea’s hyper-portable Matchasticks. Simply add one straight into your Boxed Water, give it a shake, and let the detoxifying and calming properties work their magic.
$30.60
Build Your 6 Bundle
Cadence
For weekends away, ditch travel-sized single-use plastics and opt to build your own "honeycomb" of capsules from Cadence. The company works with a partner that collects plastic from beaches worldwide that they then recycle into these cute stackables. They're perfect for safely storing everything from vitamins to skincare — and customized labels mean you’ll never reach for the wrong travel container again.
$84
$74
Rocketbook Fusion Smart Notebook
Staples
Say goodbye to paper waste with Rocketbook’s reusable 21-page smart notebook. Take notes for work or school and then simply “beam” them straight into the cloud. Easy labeling helps you keep everything organized and on-hand for when you need it.
$37
At-Home Eco-Friendly Starter Kit
Boxed Water
Not sure where to begin on your earth-conscious journey? Boxed Water’s Eco-Friendly Starter Kit lets you sample some of the brand’s go-to alternatives to single-use products, like a reusable wheat straw, beeswax wrap for food storage, and a canvas tote for easy (and eco-friendly) shopping. And get this: A portion of the company's sales goes toward cleaning beaches and planting trees (1.2 million and counting!).
$65