If you’re all about saving the planet, but your partner is more interested in saving room for dessert, you may be wondering how you can be eco-conscious in a relationship when your partner isn't. Coming from my own personal experience, I know that being eco-conscious is a lifestyle choice that reflects core values, and it can be challenging when the person you love doesn’t always share your same passion for environmental sustainability. Don't worry; you won't have to choose between the love of your life and your love for the Earth. Instead, below are 5 ways you can continue a healthy relationship with mutual respect while still maintaining your sustainable practices.
Let's talk about how you can be eco-conscious in your relationship, even when your partner isn’t quite there yet.
The Reality Check: We’re All on Different Journeys
First things first, let’s acknowledge that everyone’s on their own journey when it comes to sustainability. You might be the queen of composting and recycling, while your partner doesn't understand why plastic water bottles are a big deal. And that’s okay. We all start somewhere. Understanding that your partner might not be at the same place as you is the first step to navigating this difference, and is one of the best ways to maintain your relationship. My favorite way to navigate this is by explaining "the why". In a casual and approachable tone, I like to talk about why I'm making specific conscious choices and the positive impact these choices have on our environment.
Lead by Example
Instead of trying to change your partner overnight, lead by example! There is truly no better way to show the benefits of a more sustainable future than to model an eco-friendly lifestyle yourself. If you’re passionate about reducing waste, show them how easy and rewarding it can be! Keep in mind, that it is always best to start with small changes to encourage sustainable living without overwhelming. I remember when I first introduced my husband to the idea of incorporating a plant-based diet into our weekly meal routine. At first, he was skeptical (and a bit protective of his weekly steak night), but instead of preaching, I started making delicious plant-based meals that didn’t feel like a sacrifice. Over time, he realized that reducing our meat consumption once a week wasn’t just a way to practice green living, it could also be fun and delicious.
Communication is Key
Even outside of being eco-conscious in a relationship, strong communication is key for any healthy relationship. Being able to have meaningful conversations about values, needs, and feelings is incredibly important. Whether you're just beginning your eco-conscious dating journey, or you're already in a relationship, be prepared to have an open conversation about why sustainability matters to you and how it aligns with your values. You can do this by sharing your thoughts in a way that’s personal rather than preachy. A great way to do this is by communicating your point of view in a friendly way without judgment! Nobody wants to feel judged or shamed, especially by someone they care about. Both you and your partner should keep an open mind realizing that there is not one perfect way to live a sustainable life.
Find Common Ground
What if your partner isn’t fully on board with all your eco-conscious habits? It's time to take a more unique approach! Find some meaningful ways to make an impact, while still respecting your partner. Maybe they’re into fitness and would be down to bike instead of drive, or perhaps they’re passionate about animals and can get behind cruelty-free products. Find those areas of overlap and build on them.
My husband and I both dislike food waste. To him, wasted food is wasted money. To me, wasted food is excess methane emissions in the landfill. We have the same goal, although we have different reasons why we want to get there. My solution to this situation was composting. When we compost, our trash is lighter (and less stinky!), and our food scraps become rich organic matter we can use in our garden.
Since he wasn't on board at first, I wanted to make it as easy as possible. I asked him to only put his coffee grounds in the compost bin at first. Once he got the hang of that, I asked him to put any fruit and vegetable peels in the compost. Before long, he was asking me after dinner each night what goes into the compost and what goes into the trash. Now he's a composting champion, but it didn't happen overnight! I kept my approach simple and allowed him to slowly come on board, using our common ground to help encourage him.
Respect Their No
I know it is hard, but sometimes the answer is no. We can have the best intentions, approach the situation full of conscious love and open communication, and the answer is still no. That's okay, too! Celebrate the small wins, highlight the learning experiences, and emphasize the significant impact you two are making to create a more sustainable world. Every step in the right direction counts, no matter how small.
At the end of the day, relationships should be fun and supportive. You can be eco-conscious in a relationship when your partner isn't. Find ways to make sustainability fun by creating approachable sustainable options. Plan a date night where you cook a vegan meal together, or spend a day thrifting for stylish second-hand clothes for an event instead of buying them new.
Being eco-conscious in a relationship when your partner isn’t fully on board can be challenging, but not impossible. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Lead by example, communicate openly, find common ground, respect their no, and keep it fun!
