If you've been thinking about approaching consumption more sustainably, consider personal steps like curbing impulse buys, thrifting, or repairing items you already own. Eschewing single-use plastic and paper products in favor of durable, reusable alternatives, such as reusable produce bags and Swedish dish cloths, can help, too.If there’s a real need that can only be addressed with a purchase, opting for pre-owned or refurbished gear can also make a difference, though you should always read the fine print and confirm that a refurb is manufacturer-certified, backed by a suitable warranty, and returnable if necessary."Manufacturing requires raw materials and uses energy and emits pollution. That's why shopping pre-owned is usually better for the environment," Wirecutter sustainability editor Katie Okamoto told me.We’re seeing a number of refurbished Wirecutter picks included in Earth Day sales, and we’ve done the work to confirm they’re certified, accompanied by a decent warranty, and on sale at an actually good deal price.