In a world inundated with apps, the question arises: does the world need another one? Amidst the app-overwhelm, certain icons earn their rent-free space on your iPhone, especially those dedicated to sustainability. With the urgent need for individual action to combat global warming, sustainability apps that genuinely contribute to reducing carbon footprints are gaining significance.

1. Shop Ethical

Mobile Sustainability App

Shop Ethical! stands out as an easy-to-use sustainability app, featuring a barcode scanner for on-the-go shopping. With information on the social and environmental records of over 5,000 consumer brands, the app empowers users to make informed and sustainable purchasing decisions. It rates companies based on metrics like greenwashing, animal testing, and packaging waste.

2. One Small Step

Sustainability App Australia

Referred to as “Duolingo for the planet,” One Small Step is a global leader in sustainability apps. Functioning as a personal sustainability coach, it assesses your carbon footprint, provides a personalized roadmap to reduce emissions, and tracks habits. Users have collectively reduced their carbon impact by an impressive 2,372,097 kg of CO2.

3. AWorld in Support of ActNow

Sustainable Lifestyle App

Aligned with the United Nations’ ActNow campaign, this app supports individual climate action. Developed by a Certified B Corp, it offers daily tips, tracks habits and activities, and provides metrics on CO2, water, waste, and energy impacts. Additionally, it fosters community engagement through challenges and educational storytelling.

4. 1 Million Women

Top Sustainable Lifestyle App

1 Million Women’s app complements its sustainability blog, empowering women to reduce carbon footprints collectively. Users participate in actions such as minimizing food waste, supporting clean energy, and engaging in low-impact travel. The app fosters community connections and provides actionable steps for users at various sustainability levels.

5. Think Dirty

Cell Phone Sustainability App

Think Dirty urges users to consider the toxins in their homes by scanning products and suggesting cleaner alternatives. The app rates products based on conclusive evidence of long-term health impacts or harmlessness. It stands out as a reliable platform for making sustainable and ethical beauty purchases.

6. Toucan

Mobile Sustainability App

Toucan encourages sustainability and charitable actions, allowing users to find and support thousands of charities. It tracks donations without compromising user data, providing a transparent history of contributions. Users can set up recurring donations for continuous support.

7. SDGs in Action

Sustainable App

SDGs in Action brings the world’s to-do list for ending poverty, addressing climate change, and reducing inequalities to your phone. The app features all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), offering detailed information, facts, figures, and news. Users can search for local actions, events, or create their initiatives.

8. Good On You

Mobile Sustainability App

Good On You focuses on sustainability in the fashion industry, cataloging and rating over 3,000 brands based on their impact on people, the planet, and animals. It empowers users to make ethical and sustainable fashion choices by providing comprehensive brand ratings.

9. thredUP

Sustainable App for Secondhand Clothing

thredUP revolutionizes sustainable fashion by offering high-quality secondhand clothing from top brands at up to 90% off. Users can buy and sell women’s and kids’ clothes, promoting a circular economy and minimizing the environmental impact of the fashion industry.

10. Fair Food Forager

Environmental Sustainability App

Fair Food Forager is a pocket-sized guide to sustainable food systems, helping users find and support businesses that prioritize Indigenous foods, reduce plastics, and support fair trade. Users can rate their experiences, fostering a community of like-minded individuals.

11. OLIO

Sustainability App UK

OLIO addresses food waste by connecting users with excess food from local retailers, restaurants, and individuals. The app facilitates the sharing of surplus food, promoting a communal, circular economy. OLIO has already shared millions of portions of food among its 6 million users.

12. Too Good To Go

Sustainability App US

Too Good To Go, a Certified B Corp, connects users with excess food from various establishments, allowing them to purchase Surprise Bags at a discounted price. Over 60 million people have embraced this sustainable app, contributing to the fight against food waste.

13. iRecycle

Sustainability App US

iRecycle, developed by Earth911, simplifies local recycling efforts by providing information on over 1.6 million ways to recycle 350+ materials in the US. Users can locate nearby recycling options, choose materials, and plan routes, contributing to efficient and responsible recycling practices.

Final Thoughts on Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Apps

While sustainable technology often brings to mind devices, the significance of software should not be overlooked. These eco-friendly and sustainable apps offer a convenient way to comprehend the impact of our actions, reduce carbon footprints, and connect with like-minded individuals. If a significant portion of our lives is spent staring at screens, using that time for a good cause is a meaningful choice. Consider sharing these green sustainability apps with fellow app enthusiasts to promote purposeful screen time.