How do you have sex? Let’s not be bashful: we all do it, it’s totally normal. We’re not in highschool giggling with our friends on the bleachers anymore.
But seriously… how do you have sex? Is your sex good for the planet?
Green kitchens, green bathrooms, green travel hacks, and green wardrobes are discussed freely, but ‘green sex’ is commonly shoved under the ‘too embarrassing’ carpet. Not today, friends.
The truth is, sex involves items and habits that can be wasteful and damaging for the planet. I’m certainly not about to say stop having it (please, have more!), but there are ways to make love to your partner without producing waste and disrespecting the planet.
Image via Unsplash
Here’s how to help the planet while you get it on.
1. Choose to Reuse
Whatever the product, avoiding disposables is best. I’m not talking about donning one of those reusable crystal condoms I once saw on eBay (I’m still slightly disturbed), but be mindful of disposables that can easily be swapped for reusables. For example, wipe up the scene of the crime with a reusable towel rather than a nasty disposable wet wipe. Only purchase sex toys that are reusable, last a long time, and take reusable batteries. Single-use items may be fun to experiment with, but try to avoid or limit yourself to items that will end up in the waste bin after one use.
2. Eco-Friendly Sex Toys
Did your mind just jump to organic cucumbers too? Nope; using produce in your sex life is not advised by me! Eco-friendly sex toys come in the form of silicon (toxin free), stainless steel, recycled plastic, and glass. These materials are far better than usual plastic toys that take hundreds of years to break down and an excessive amount of resources to produce. Plus, enjoy the added bonus of avoiding toxins that generic sex toys may be made with or coated in. Choosing paraben and phthalate free toys that spice up your sex life is crucial to a healthy you and a healthy planet. If sex toys are your thing, head to Nourished Life, Lelo, or try out a We-Vibe Wish or The Classic Rabbit (complete with rechargeable batteries!).
3. Natural Lube
Conventional lube is often made from petroleum. Yuck! I don’t know about you, but I wouldn’t put that anywhere near my who-who. Luckily, organic certified lubricant exists. Organic lube is far better for you and the planet and doesn’t compromise on quality either.
Image Nisa Underwear
4. Save Power & Water
Sorry shower sex lovers, I’m about to burst your bubble. Though it can be fun to ‘get jiggy with it’ while the hot water runs over your thrashing bodies; watch your water consumption. Alternatively, if you can wash while making love (good on you for multitasking), you could actually save water by showering together! Whatever the case: watch your water usage. To save even more energy, turn the lights off when you’re ‘doing it’ and use natural light, like a candle (that part’s easy). Conserve power and water. Get back to basics.
5. Eco-friendly Lingerie
If you’re going to have sex eco-style, you should really look the part. A nice lacy nightie from Kmart does not scream sexy, but an organic, ethically made piece from an eco lingerie company is bound to get your partner straight into bed (speaking from experience). My personal favourites are Azura Bay and I’ve been eyeing up a few pieces at Troo too. For a full lingerie guide, make sure you check out The Green Hub’s Ultimate Guide to Ethical Sustainable and Organic Underwear Brands to see what tickles your fancy.
6. Thoughtful Contraception
Your body is yours, and it’s completely up to you how you want to manage your contraception. With this in mind, look into options that are not only good for your body and life situation but try your best to consider the planet in your decisions too. You may find this guide to eco-friendly contraception methods helpful in making your decision.
To wrap things up before you head off to try out your new eco-friendly sex techniques (wink wink), remember that making sweet love is first and foremost about the physical and emotional health of you and your partner. Be gentle with your partner when discussing your suggestions to eco switches, and only practice what you are both comfortable with.
Keeping the planet in mind while making sweet love is a wonderful way to preserve mother earth, and protect the planet for offspring that may sprout from your eco-friendly acts.
