THIS WEEK: The best apps for sustainable living in 2025

SUSTAINABILITY & TECHNOLOGY

As technology becomes more integrated into our lives, so does our environmental footprint. Globally, consumers spent 4.2 trillion hours across iOS and Google Play apps in 2024, which translates to approximately 3.5 hours per day per mobile user. But technology doesn’t have to be the enemy of sustainability. In fact, it can be one of its biggest allies.

By leveraging innovative apps, we can take meaningful steps towards a more sustainable lifestyle. From recycling and shopping to food choices and tech habits, these apps empower us to reduce waste and make eco-conscious decisions.

Here are some of the best apps for sustainable living in 2025:

Recycling made easy

YoungPlanet helps parents extend the lifecycle of children’s toys, clothes, and books by enabling free exchanges between families. Instead of throwing away items, parents can pass them on, reducing landfill waste and promoting a circular economy.

Depop combines social networking with second-hand fashion shopping, making it easy to buy and sell preloved clothing. By promoting resale, the app helps reduce fashion industry waste and supports a more sustainable way to shop.

Technology with a conscience

Fairphone is revolutionising the electronics industry with ethically produced smartphones. Their app helps users monitor battery health, extend device lifespans, and understand the sustainable sourcing behind their products.

Ailuna makes adopting sustainable habits fun through gamification. Users take on eco-friendly challenges like reducing plastic use or conserving water, earning rewards and engaging with a like-minded community along the way.

Sustainable food choices

HappyCow makes plant-based dining easier by providing a global directory of vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants. Users can search by location, dietary preference, and organic ingredient availability, supporting a more eco-friendly diet.

Shop smarter, live greener

CodeCheck lets you scan barcodes to learn about the ingredients and sustainability impact of food and cosmetic products. Personalised recommendations help users avoid harmful ingredients like microplastics and palm oil.

My Little Plastic Footprint provides personalised tips and challenges to help reduce plastic consumption. A built-in tracker helps users visualise their progress in cutting down plastic waste.

Reewild helps users make more sustainable shopping choices by scanning products to reveal their carbon footprints and offering eco-friendly alternatives. The app also provides tips to reduce overall emissions.

Make sustainable choices today

These apps prove that technology can be a powerful force for good, helping consumers reduce their environmental impact one step at a time. By making informed decisions and embracing digital tools, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.