No. 18 // Going Zero Waste
Every time we order carry out, forget our reusable grocery bags, order packages - we’re creating waste. Sure, some things we can’t really help as members of modern society - but there are many easy changes that add up to create a wildly big impact with relatively low effort. If you’re just starting out and want to cut down on your own personal footprint, here are a few tips that helped me dip my toe and eventually dive in to the low-waste lifestyle…
BYO - Bring your own containers/cups/utensils. Many deli counters/bulk foods sections at the grocery store will allow you to use your own containers (and will not charge you for the weight of your container). Heading to the coffee shop? Bring a reusable cup (and a straw if that’s your thing). Bringing home leftovers after a big meal out? Bring along some reusables for that, too. I like to keep a little kit in the car so I’m prepared for whatever the day might bring.
Compost. There are SO many things that can be composted it’s mind boggling - I had no idea until I started researching (thank you Google). Many cities also allow you to add a wide range of compostable materials into your green garden bin - check with your local city services. You can dramatically cut down on your waste by composting and, bonus…you become a whole lot more aware of what you’re throwing away when you know what can (and can’t) be composted.
Stop buying bottles of water…just stop! I believe in drinking the cleanest water you can drink which is why we invested in a high quality under-counter R/O system with added remineralization. In the end, we are most certainly saving money by not purchasing bottled water. I had a thing for this alkaline water bottled in tetrapaks until I learned that this packaging is not widely recyclable and usually ends up in the landfill.
Pause before you purchase. Before you buy anything, think if you already have something that could fill the need. Are you a member of a Buy Nothing group? We have several in our area and they are great for cleaning out your closets and cultivating a community of giving.
Make the switch from disposable to reusable. Water bottles, napkins, bowl covers and snack bags - you can pretty much find a nice alternative to any disposable item out there. My advice would be to buy high quality reusable items that will last. Food52 is one of my favorite sites and you can find a lot of useful and beautiful reusable items for the kitchen. Wild Minimalist is also an awesome site worth exploring for all things low waste.
Do your best. If you forget to bring your cup, or need to grab water on the run - don’t be hard on yourself - do better next time. It’s a process of creating a mindfulness around what we buy, what we use and what we throw away. It takes some time to get the hang of, but once you do you’ll forget that it’s even a consideration - it’s simply a lifestyle.
Tell your friends, your neighbors, what the hell…tell strangers. Who knows, you might inspire one person to convert and before you know it, you’ve started a movement. //