How to build sustainable habits

This is a sponsored article from SustainabilityTracker.com member made by Fressko.

At Fressko, our mission extends beyond offering high-quality reusable coffee cups and bottles; we are dedicated to fostering a sustainable lifestyle and inspiring positive change. Building sustainable habits can be challenging, but with the right mindset and tools, it’s possible to make meaningful progress toward a greener, better future. 

The Challenge of Changing Habits

Changing habits, particularly those ingrained over years, is no small feat. Research shows that it takes an average of 66 days to form a new habit, with considerable variation depending on the individual and the complexity of the behaviour being adopted. In Australia, the push towards sustainability is growing, yet single-use plastics still pose a significant problem. Case in point; Australians still toss around 1 billion single-use coffee cups annually, with most ending up in landfills.

Understanding Behavioral Science

The Fogg Behavior Model, developed by Dr. BJ Fogg, breaks down the process of habit formation into three critical elements: Motivation, Ability, and Prompts. For a behaviour to occur, an individual must be sufficiently motivated, have the ability to perform the behaviour, and be prompted to act.

1. Motivation: This is the driving force behind why we do what we do. It can stem from various sources, such as a desire to protect the environment, personal health benefits, or social acceptance.
2. Ability: This refers to how easy or difficult it is to perform the behaviour. Simplifying the process and removing barriers can significantly enhance one’s ability to adopt new habits.
3. Prompts: These are the triggers that remind or encourage us to perform the behaviour. Prompts can take many forms, from visual cues to social reminders.

Building Sustainable Habits with Fressko

1. Start Small: Begin with simple, manageable steps. According to the Fogg Behavior Model, starting with small actions increases the likelihood of success. Carry your reusables with you daily. This small action can significantly reduce your reliance on single-use plastics.
   
2. Create Prompts: Use cues and reminders to reinforce new habits. Place your cup near your keys or in your bag, so it’s always within reach when you head out the door. Prompts are essential as they trigger the desired behaviour at the right time.
   
3. Enhance Ability: Make the behaviour easy to do. Well-crafted reusables should be designed to be user-friendly, with features like leak-proof lids and easy-to-clean designs. By enhancing your ability to use these products effortlessly, you increase the likelihood of habit formation.
   
4. Boost Motivation: Find personal motivation in your actions. Whether it’s the environmental impact or stylish design, identifying what motivates you can strengthen your commitment. Positive reinforcement and celebrating progress also boost motivation, keeping you on track.
   
5. Leverage Social Influence: Social norms play a powerful role in behaviour change. Share your sustainable journey on social media or within your community. See more sustainable products in retail. When others see the ease and style of using greener products, they may be inspired to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

Overcoming Barriers

One common barrier to adopting reusable products is convenience. Many people believe that single-use items are more convenient. Fressko addresses this by designing products that are not only sustainable but also highly functional and stylish. Our insulated bottles keep beverages hot or cold for hours, and our reusable cups are leak-proof and easy to clean, making them a practical choice for busy lifestyles. They’re built to last.

The Road Ahead

As we collectively work towards reducing waste and adopting more sustainable practices, it’s essential to remember that every small change contributes to a larger impact. In Australia, where the waste crisis continues to challenge our environment, embracing reusable products like those from Fressko is a step in the right direction. By building sustainable habits and encouraging others to do the same, we can create a significant positive shift.

At Fressko, we believe in the power of individuals to drive change. By applying insights from the Fogg Behavior Model, we can better understand and overcome the challenges of habit formation. Together, we can build a culture of sustainability, one reusable cup at a time. So, let’s embark on this journey together, embracing the challenges and celebrating the triumphs as we work towards a better, more sustainable future!

This is an article from a SustainabilityTracker.com Member. The views and opinions we express here don’t necessarily reflect our organisation.