Author: Tamara Mrázová
Pay Discrimination Persists, but the Issue of Wage Inequality is Gaining More Attention
Just a few days ago Equal Pay Day Slovakia conference was held in Bratislava. For the second time, event managed to draw the attention of companies, organizations, the media, and public. At the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel, people who care deeply about equality and want to make our society better came together to address a key issue: the fact that women work for free for about two months of the year. The Equal Pay Day conference, brought to Slovakia by Martina Novotná, founder of Akčné ženy, o.z., focused extensively on the topic of the “women’s euro.” Moderators, speakers, and ambassadors openly discussed wage inequality, but they did not stop there. The event was packed with positive examples from practice, tips for achieving equal pay in the workplace, and panel discussions on age discrimination, intergenerational collaboration, talent drain, and financial literacy. The Symbolism of Red: From Deficit to Strength “Two years ago, I would not have imagined waking up and going to bed with the colour red every day, but today I started my day with the slogan ‘We’re going red.’ Red symbolizes a deficit in accounting and represents the minus of Equal Pay Day. However, we view it positively. For us, it is a symbol of energy and female strength, a symbol of our ability to make changes, amplify women’s voices, and highlight the critical work they do,” said Martina Novotná, the organizer of Equal Pay Day Slovakia, in her opening remarks. Philip Morris Slovakia Returns as the General Partner “I am very proud that our company can support this event for the second year in a row. The topic of equal working conditions and equal pay is very close to my heart, not only because I am a lawyer but also because I am a woman and, most importantly, the mother of an 11-year-old daughter. That is why it is essential to talk about these issues,” said Nadežda Beňová Miklovičová from Philip Morris Slovakia. Survey by 2muse on Perceived Inequality in Pay in Slovakia A survey conducted by 2muse, presented by Patrícia Kollár and Michal Vyšinský, revealed that considerable progress compared to the previous year is still lacking. However, awareness of various types of discrimination, including those linked to pay disparities, has increased. While age discrimination remains the most common form of workplace bias, the survey showed that women, especially mothers, are the most vulnerable group in terms of workplace inequality. Employers are beginning to address these issues with measures like flexible working options and part-time roles. Respondents highlighted stereotypes about older employees being less adaptable and younger workers lacking experience. Data revealed that men and women aged 45–50 often feel insecure about their jobs. Aditionally, they face significant anxiety about their roles, making them more likely to accept lower pay and less likely to negotiate salaries. Panel Discussions on Critical Topics at Equal Pay Day The conference featured a series of expert panel discussions. They presented topics such as intergenerational understanding, financial literacy, the destabilizing effects of young talent leaving Slovakia, and the challenges of succession planning within companies. Participants received numerous practical tips on implementing fair pay policies and eliminating age discrimination in the workplace. “Fighting discrimination, especially age discrimination, is one of our company principles. We take preventive measures and foster mutual respect. Discrimination of any kind has no place here. For example, we have programs that allow mothers to actively participate in projects during their maternity leave, working when it suits them,” said Martina Kandera from Slovak Telekom. “Although I studied in Austria, I never considered staying there. Opportunities found me here in Slovakia, and it was always important for me to stay close to my family. We must think about the culture we want to live in and raise our children in,” said Sandra Balážiková from ING Hubs Slovakia. “If half of humanity is responsible for the very existence of our species, then they should receive something in return. Thanks to women, we live, and it should be a given that disparities are eliminated. Offering flexibility to mothers came naturally to us, and this approach should be the norm across society,” added Andrej Zaťko from 365.bank. Mentoring and an Engaged Audience at Equal Pay Day The importance of the conference’s topics resonated with participants not only during the event but also through mentoring sessions. Outstanding mentors shared real-life examples and solutions tailored to various age groups. The success of the mentoring sessions and the audience’s active engagement underscored an urgency. The urgency of continuing discussions about all forms of discrimination. Equal Pay Day 2025 The most vulnerable groups of men and women need our support and action. Equal Pay Day is not just a symbolic day when women try to catch up with men’s pay. Equal Pay Day is about providing everyone with an equal starting line. It is also about tolerance, respect, and mutual appreciation. Regardless of age, gender, race, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or socioeconomic status. “We owe great thanks to our partners, supporters, and ambassadors. With their help, we launched the Equal Pay Initiative earlier this year, and dozens of additional companies have since joined. The Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, and Family has invited us to collaborate. Aditionally, we managed to do so on transposing the directive on pay transparency, which also aims to reduce wage inequality. We have conducted workshops focused on discrimination and expanded Equal Pay Day activities to regional areas. We will keep working tirelessly and have already begun preparing for the third conference because we truly believe in this mission,” concluded Martina Novotná, founder of the Akčné ženy magazine and organizer of Equal Pay Day. Thank you to all the conference partners and participants for their strong attendance and positive feedback. We look forward to seeing you at the third annual Equal Pay Day conference on November 19, 2025!
Breast Cancer Awareness: The Story of Janka Šišková and Her Message to Women
Breast cancer is a disease that affects thousands of women every year, many of whom face the challenge without warning or awareness of prevention options. Despite advancements in medicine and early detection methods, one-third of breast cancer patients in Slovakia still visit their doctor in the later stages of the disease. At an event focused on promoting women’s health, Janka Šišková, a woman whose story embodies courage, determination, and a desire to help others, shared her journey. Her path from breast cancer diagnosis to recovery serves as both a lesson and an inspiration. Breast cancer and Janka’s fight Janka Šišková’s story began subtly. “It was just an ordinary afternoon,” she recalls. “I was trying on new clothes at home when I suddenly felt a lump under my fingers.” At first, she thought it was nothing serious. However, after a few days, she decided to see a doctor, who diagnosed her with breast cancer after a series of tests. “Suddenly, my life turned upside down,” she admits. The diagnosis was clear: stage three cancer with metastases in her lymph nodes. Despite the shock and feelings of helplessness, Janka knew she had a choice, give in to fear or start fighting. Why is breast cancer prevention a key Janka emphasizes that the greatest chance for successful treatment lies in detecting the disease at an early stage. According to the World Health Organization, early detection can reduce breast cancer mortality by up to 30%. Prevention doesn’t have to be complicated. Important are regular self-examinations, routine gynecological check-ups, and participation in mammography screenings which are available for women aged 50–69 in Slovakia. “Unfortunately, many women believe that it can’t happen to them, or they postpone prevention for later. That is exactly the mistake.” Janka’s message: Know your body “Every woman should take the time to understand her body,” Janka says. She highlights that self-examinations are a simple yet effective way to detect changes in the breasts. Here’s her recommended method: Visual inspection in front of a mirror: Look for any changes, such as redness, dimpling, or changes in the shape of your breasts or nipples. Palpation: Using circular motions with your fingertips, examine your breasts and underarm area for lumps, hardening, or sensitive spots. Consistency: Perform self-examinations every month, ideally three to five days after your period. If you don’t have a period, choose a fixed day each month. Cancer and its treatment: More than a physical burden Breast cancer treatment often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and, in some cases, hormonal therapy. Janka stresses that the psychological aspect of the battle is equally challenging. “When I lost my hair, I felt like I had lost a part of my identity. That’s when I realized I needed help,” she shares. Janka sought support from a psychologist and gradually learned to cope with her emotions. “Psychological support is just as important as physical treatment. It helped me not only survive tough times but also understand myself better,” she admits. Today, she encourages all women to seek help, whether professional or from loved ones. Read also: Women in business and diplomacy Awareness as a path to change After her successful treatment, Janka decided her experience shouldn’t go unnoticed. “I want women to know their health is invaluable. Every day without prevention is an unnecessary risk,” she says. She now actively participates in campaigns promoting breast cancer prevention. One such initiative was Mila’s campaign held on International No Bra Day, which underscores the importance of breast health awareness. Thanks to these events, more women are realizing that prevention is the best protection. A message to women “Breast cancer is a fight every one of us can win, if we act in time. Prevention is our greatest ally,” Janka reminds women. Her story proves that even in the toughest moments, strength, inspiration, and determination to help others can be found. Janka’s message is simple yet profoundly important: Take a moment for yourself, care for your health, it could save your life.
Women in Diplomacy: Breaking Barriers and Setting Higher Goals with Megan Naylor
In today’s world, women are taking on roles that were once thought to be the sole domain of men—whether in business, government, or diplomacy. Megan Naylor, a senior economic officer for the US Embassy, is one such woman reshaping the face of international relations. Her story reveals the challenges and opportunities women face in diplomacy, which often mirrors the experiences of women in business. Let’s dive into her journey and her perspective on the evolving role of women in leadership. An Unexpected Journey into Diplomacy Megan’s journey into diplomacy wasn’t part of her childhood dreams. Growing up in Texas, she had little awareness of international relations. Initially, she worked in economic development in the United States and pursued graduate studies in Business Administration and Economic Development. It was only after meeting someone passionate about a career in the Foreign Service that Megan was introduced to the world of diplomacy This “someone” later happened to become Megan’s husband. She followed him to Liberia, a post-conflict country, right after finishing her MBA. For Megan, it was a challenging shift. Leaving behind her peers who were pursuing high-level corporate positions for an unfamiliar country with limited infrastructure. However, she saw this as an opportunity for growth and embraced it. Megan took on a role as a public affairs officer at the embassy. “It led to a lot of soul searching and kind of thinking about what I wanted to do next,” Megan shared. Working alongside Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who is currently the US Ambassador to the United Nations, had a profound impact on her career. “She has this wonderful, amazing personality, and is full of so much energy and is so authentic and engaging,” Megan said. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield showed Megan that diplomacy could be driven by authenticity, warmth, and genuine engagement with others. Navigating Gender Challenges in Diplomacy as Women Megan acknowledges that being a woman in diplomacy comes with its own set of challenges, similar to those faced by women in business. Historically, the US Department of State had rules that prevented women diplomats from working if they got married. It took lawsuits and significant societal changes to break down those discriminatory barriers. Today, about 40% of American diplomats are women, but only 30% of ambassadors are female. This disparity highlights the lingering challenges women face in reaching senior positions, both in diplomacy and business. Women still face institutional barriers, societal expectations, and challenges balancing work and family responsibilities. Megan pointed out how men often find it easier to navigate these aspects due to societal norms, where women are typically expected to prioritize family over career. “As a woman in diplomacy today, I see myself as someone who is meant to be here,” Megan said. The Importance of Setting Ambitious Goals for Women Megan emphasizes the need for women to set “big, audacious goals”. A term she borrowed from a book she is currently reading, written by one of her business school professors. She believes that while no one achieves 100% of what they want, it is important to aim high, even beyond what feels comfortable. “You’ll never get to 100%, but if you keep your ambitions low, it’s going to keep you down even further,” Megan said. Pushing beyond limits, even if it leads to some disappointment, ultimately results in greater success. Megan also shared how women need to balance assertiveness with warmth. This can help them advance while maintaining good relationships with their peers. This balance is often key to navigating the complexities of leadership roles in male-dominated fields. Support and Mentorship for Women A strong support network is crucial for women navigating challenging fields like diplomacy. Megan believes in the power of mentorship and allyship. Supporting each other, being there to guide and motivate, and acknowledging that sometimes the system is stacked against women, can help lift others up. It’s about showing empathy and setting an example. Example of what effective leadership looks like—combining decisiveness with care for the team. “It’s so important for women to support each other in the workplace,” Megan emphasized. “We can support each other as we work against barriers.” Women in leadership roles have the opportunity to break stereotypes by being both assertive and empathetic. Megan highlighted that in the past, some women in senior roles might have tried to emulate men by being more ruthless. However, there is a growing recognition that empathy and vulnerability, when combined with strength, make for a truly effective leader. Balancing Work and Life Balancing professional and personal life is another major challenge for women in demanding careers. Megan shared her own experience of managing her diplomatic duties while raising two children. She emphasized the importance of being conscious about choices—deciding where to spend time, and sometimes outsourcing tasks like childcare or household chores to focus on what truly matters. “There are constant choices,” she said, “like last night, I really wanted to attend a diplomatic gathering, but my kids had a school bake sale, and I chose to be there for them.” She also pointed out that work-life balance isn’t just important for women with families but for everyone. Employees should be able to pursue their hobbies and have time to relax, without feeling obligated to work constantly. Setting boundaries, such as limiting the time spent checking work emails, is key to maintaining that balance. Changing Gender Roles and Leading by Example Megan also touched on the evolving roles of men and women in both households and the workplace. She spoke about how, in her own family, responsibilities are shared equally between her and her husband. “We are partners,” Megan said. She believes in setting a good example for her sons. By teaching them from a young age that tasks like cooking and cleaning are normal and necessary for everyone. This shift towards shared responsibilities and more egalitarian roles is something that Megan hopes to see more of in future generations. By involving children in household tasks and modeling equal partnerships, parents can help shape a future where gender roles are more balanced. Megan’s experiences remind us that with determination, support, and the courage to aim high, women can achieve remarkable things—even in fields historically dominated by men. This conversation was part of a podcast, and our readers can watch and listen to it on various streaming platforms.
From Slovakia to Sun: Matej Jurášek’s Life-Changing Move to Madeira
Matej Jurášek, known as “Rarach,” is a Slovak who, together with his family, made the move to the island of Madeira. But settling in turned out to be trickier than he imagined. Through his Instagram account, “rarachjenamadeire,” Matej shares insights into life on the island. In this interview, we asked him why he and his wife chose to move abroad, what life on the island is like, and much more. Matej, where did the idea to move come from, and why Madeira? When we first started considering the move, we only had one son. We thought that living abroad might be better for the three of us. Plus, we knew it would be easier for our child to adapt while he was still young. For my wife and me, it was definitely much harder than it was for him. Initially, we had Spain in mind. We kept thinking about the move, planning it all out in our heads. Then we took a trip to Madeira, and we made the decision pretty quickly. We just fell in love with the island—the scenery, the people. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly. The climate also suited us perfectly, with its pleasant spring-like weather almost year-round. You wake up to sunshine, and you can swim all year. It really lifts your mood, and it’s much nicer to wake up to sunny mornings than cold, gray winters. Read also: Girls in marketing Do you remember your first feelings after moving? Oh, definitely. I remember that first morning so clearly. We stayed with friends for the first three weeks to give us time to get settled and find our own place. It might sound like something out of a movie, but I woke up to the sound of the ocean, and every time I looked out the window, I was in awe of the view. I even started crying, thinking, “Wow, we actually did this.” But, of course, reality set in soon after, and it wasn’t easy. It’s amazing to watch my sun switch between languages. He knows exactly who to speak to and in which language. He speaks Slovak with me, Portuguese with the neighbor, and English with our friends. He handles it all so naturally! Did moving to Madeira have any downsides? We were surprised to find that everyone here takes their time with things. We arrived with a financial buffer, ready to invest wisely, but things moved so slowly that it was frustrating. It was a bit of a roadblock for us. Within the first two weeks, we found a long-term place to live with the help of locals. Then we started looking for a property to invest in. We wanted to create accommodation for travelers and promote it through my Instagram. But it wasn’t as easy as we thought—the properties looked completely different in real life compared to the listings. Our plans weren’t coming together, and everything felt so chaotic. In Madeira we burned through our savings much faster than expected and didn’t have any steady income. Those first weeks and months were tough, but eventually, things started to fall into place—though not without a lot of effort. Read also: Nikola moved to Spain to follow her dreams Did you experience any surprises on the island? Yes, several! In one week, we found a house to renovate, bought a car, and had to fly back to Slovakia for work. A few days before the flight, my wife Andrea wasn’t feeling well, so we had some tests done. We found out we were expecting our second child! Andrea was already 18 weeks pregnant. It was such a shock—suddenly, we realized that we had been moving as a family of four, not three, all along. That was definitely the biggest and craziest surprise for us! Matej, were you able to complete your property project in Madeira? We were worried that the local laid-back attitude would mean unreliable services. We feared that the workers wouldn’t show up on time. But in the end, we got there, though it took a lot longer than we anticipated. We now have a house with four apartments that we’ve been renting out since August. Do you miss having your family nearby? Funny enough, my wife and I were just talking about this the other day. We thought about what life would’ve been like if we’d stayed in our small apartment in Bratislava. But we quickly realized why we made the move and why we chose Madeira. Neither of us is from Bratislava, so our parents were never super close by anyway. They only visited occasionally, so we were used to handling things on our own. It’s tough not having family around, but since moving here, we’ve met some amazing people who are always willing to help. What food do you miss the most, and what local dishes from Madeira have you come to love? Back in Slovakia, I wasn’t a fan of fish at all—it was a struggle to even eat it at Christmas! But now, I could eat fish every day. The fish here looks and tastes different, and it’s so fresh and affordable. We also love the local traditional dishes, and since there are so many foreigners here, you’ll find all sorts of international restaurants—Italian, Indian, Vietnamese. There’s so much variety. I don’t miss Slovak food too much, but I do miss my bike! (Laughs) Matej, what would you recommend to those considering moving abroad? It’s tough to give general advice because everyone’s situation is different, but what helped us was spending a longer period here before making the final move. It gave us a chance to get to know the island and the way things work here. One tip I’d give is that moving abroad is a big decision, and it should be a shared one. It’s important to have a plan and to get to know the country before making the leap. Every place is unique, and it’s important to be ready for whatever that uniqueness brings.
Your communication skills deserve to be upgraded. This is how!
Communication is the foundation of any successful relationship, whether it’s with your partner, friends, family, or colleagues. If you ever feel like finding the right words is a challenge, here are some tips to help boost your communication skills. Let’s elevate how we connect! Learn to Listen One of the keys to effective communication is listening. Pay attention to what others are saying and try to understand their perspective without interrupting. This will help you respond thoughtfully, showing that you value the conversation and are genuinely interested in what the other person has to say. Know What You Want to Say Before speaking, take a moment to consider your main points. Being clear and concise, especially on complex topics, helps avoid confusion. There’s no harm in expanding on the topic later, but start by getting your main message across. Starting with clarity can prevent misunderstandings and keep the conversation on track. Body Language Speaks Volumes Gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact can often say more than words. Keep your body language open and friendly. Avoid folding your arms or standing with hands on your hips unless that suits the message you’re conveying. Sometimes, these non-verbal cues can come across as distant or authoritative, even if that’s not what you intend. Read also: How to always appear elegant? Emotions Matter Too Developing emotional intelligence is key. Focus on empathy and recognizing others’ emotions, and learn to respond appropriately. Empathy and good timing in your responses can show that your communication skills are truly top-notch. When you can tune into the emotions of others, you build a deeper connection and show them you care. Take Feedback to Heart Constructive criticism can be tough, but asking others for their opinions and accepting feedback as a chance to improve will help you identify areas for growth. Taking the time to ask for input and reflect on it is a powerful way to improve your communication style. Stay Focused Whether it’s a work discussion or a personal chat, keep the purpose of the conversation in mind. Avoid unnecessary tangents that might take attention away from the main point. Staying efficient and purposeful is crucial, as this approach helps keep everyone on the same page and makes the exchange more productive for all involved. Effective communication is, at its core, about making real connections and understanding others.
Hidden gems in Europe: This city will not ruin your wallet, and yet is still attractive and fun!
The bustling energy of a modern city, historical architecture preserved with care, a wild nightlife, and wallet-friendly prices that won’t break the bank. If you’re picturing Hungary, you’re spot on. Today’s star is the beautiful city on the Danube, Budapest. You’ll Be Hooked from the Start For us Slovaks, Budapest is incredibly convenient to visit. It’s just 80 km past our border, and you can get there by EuroCity train from Bratislava in just two and a half hours. Choosing this option is well worth it. As soon as you step off the train at Nyugati station, you’ll feel the city’s charm. This station is a stunning example of how much Hungarians value what they have, beautifully restored and clean, with yellow taxis and trams creating a lovely contrast around you. History Everywhere You Look In Bratislava, historical architecture is mostly concentrated in the Old Town, but in Budapest, it’s all around you. Most buildings have been restored, yet they retain their historic character, allowing you to enjoy a clean, polished city that still feels timeless. Read also: Mental Health Matters The Jewel of the Danube Stretching along both sides of the Danube, Budapest remains accessible despite recent floods and still offers riverside strolls. Watching the sun set along the Danube is a priceless experience. There are four bridges across the river, perfect for a scenic walk. And with trams and buses, getting around is easy and affordable, with a 48-hour ticket priced at just 12 euros. Must-See Tourist Spots You can’t visit Budapest without hitting up the iconic sights that showcase its rich history. Some favorites are Fisherman’s Bastion, the Hungarian Parliament building, Citadella, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and Buda Castle. Plan a route that starts at the Parliament, crosses the Old Bridge to Fisherman’s Bastion, and leads up to Citadella. With around 25,000 steps by the end of the day, you’ll be ready for a break! A Taste of Hungarian Delights And, of course, don’t leave without trying some delicious Hungarian food. Treat yourself to a classic chimney cake, enjoy ice cream at every corner, and take advantage of discount stores with treats from around the world. For main dishes, we highly recommend trying traditional goulash or pörkölt. Yum!
Shining a Light on Mental Health: Why It Matters More Than Ever
October 10th marks International Mental Health Day, a global initiative designed to spark conversation, break down stigmas, and remind everyone of the importance of mental well-being. While this topic has become super common, many people still face challenges in accessing the support and care they need. This day is an opportunity for communities around the world to come together and focus on building a more inclusive and supportive approach to mental health. Why Mental Health Deserves Attention Mental health affects how we think, feel, and interact with the world. It’s as crucial as physical health, but it often gets less attention. Issues like anxiety, depression, and other mental struggles can impact people’s daily lives, sometimes invisibly. However, despite its significance, many are still hesitant to seek help, and this is where International Mental Health Day plays a vital role. By openly discussing this topic, we can help reduce the stigma and encourage more people to reach out for support when they need it. Normalizing these conversations helps us all feel more comfortable talking about our mental well-being. This Year’s Theme of International Mental Health The theme for this year’s International Mental Health Day is more unique than ever. “Mental Health in an Unequal World,” highlighting how disparities can affect access to care. Social and economic factors like income and education often influence who can get support. The goal is to raise awareness about these gaps and advocate for better resources for everyone, no matter their background. This theme is also a call for increased investment in mental health services, aiming to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to access care. The Rise of Digital Solutions Technology has made it easier than ever to access mental health care. From teletherapy sessions to various apps, digital tools offer a way for people to connect with professionals or find support from the comfort of home. However, not everyone has equal access to these resources, which highlights a new kind of inequality. This special day reminds us to celebrate these advancements while also considering how to make them accessible to more people, bridging the digital divide and creating more opportunities for care. How to Get Involved Whether you’re passionate about this topic or just want to lend your support, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Check in on friends or family members, educate yourself about it, or join a local event. Social media is a great way to spread the word and raise awareness. Sometimes, just sharing a post can make a big difference. If you want to dive deeper, look for webinars, community events, or online workshops on the topic. Even small steps can contribute to making a difference and showing your support. Read also: Eco-friendly habits for everyday Moving Forward Together International Mental Health Day is a reminder of the importance of mental well-being for everyone. Let’s do it all. Encourage open conversations. Advocate for access to care. Let’s advocate our mental state as a priority. We can all play a part in making a difference. Let’s use this day to support each other, learn, and continue building a world where mind and well-being is valued and prioritised. “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” – Albus Dumbledore, J.K. Rowling
Simple Eco-Friendly Habits to Sneak into Your Daily Routine
Even though sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint are hot topics nowadays, many people tend to still think that going green is complicated or time-consuming. The truth is, even the smallest changes in our everyday habits can make a huge difference for the planet. It’s all about starting with a few easy steps that, in the long run, will positively impact the environment. We’ve put together some super simple tips that won’t feel like a hassle but will mean a lot for our planet. Get rid of the chemicals We all have our go-to cleaning habits, and the same goes for the products we use. Some work better than others, but the ones that don’t quite cut it can easily be replaced with eco-friendly alternatives. Baking soda, lemon, and vinegar are great natural cleaning helpers to try out! Buy yourself a bottle Whenever you head out, keep in mind that you’re bound to get thirsty at some point during the day. If you’re not going to the office or somewhere you can easily grab a drink from a glass, it’s a good idea to bring a reusable bottle that you can fill up with water anytime. This way, you’ll avoid a trip to the store to buy bottled water. There are tons of durable options out there, made from tough plastic, metal, glass, or even bamboo. Yes, bamboo. Travel green We’re not saying you should walk or bike everywhere—it’s just not always possible, especially for longer distances. But there are healthier alternatives to traditional cars. If you’re taking a taxi, most apps let you pick a “green” option, so you can get to your destination in an electric vehicle. And if you fly often, many airlines give you the option to pay a little extra to compensate for your carbon footprint. It’s usually just a few cents, but it goes a long way in helping the environment. Slow fashion Our shopping habits are often driven by how much we’re willing to spend on clothes. Big brand chains know it’s smart marketing to sell lower-quality clothing at cheap prices. But it’s a trick to get customers to buy more often, constantly replacing items because they’re so affordable. Try setting a goal to shop more regularly at sustainable stores, even if it means spending a bit more. In the end, you’re investing in quality. Read also: Did you know your hair has pores as well? Buy domestic products If you have some free time over the weekend, take a stroll through your local market and pick up some fresh, local fruits and veggies that didn’t have to travel from abroad. These foods have a much smaller environmental footprint, and you’ll be supporting amazing local farmers and producers at the same time. Go get that fancy tote bag Pretty much all of us have a pile of plastic or paper bags at home from grabbing groceries at the supermarket. Next time, try keeping a reusable tote bag handy so you don’t have to keep buying more single-use ones. It’s a simple switch that makes a big difference! If you fancy any of these eco-friendly hacks, we are more than happy that we can inspire others to make these simple yet impactful changes. Together we can contribute to better tomorrows and better planet’s health. Try to fit these habits into your routine… we are sure you’ll get the hang of them soon!