5 Tips to go Zero Waste

Trying to go zero waste but not sure where to start? These 5 easy changes will make a world of a difference.

1. Refuse Plastic Bags

Plastic. Lasts. Forever. Just let that sink in for a minute. We all know it, and yet plastic bags are still everywhere. Single-use plastics are the worst offender when it comes to waste production, so there’s no better place to start. Keep plastic bags out of the landfill and ocean by buying or making your own reusable shopping bags. Keep them on hand, in your purse or in the car for impromptu shopping trips.

2. Buy a Reusable Water Bottle

Did you know that a million plastic bottles are bought a minute in the world? And, in 2016, less than half of the bottles bought were recycled. Save money and reduce your waste by ditching plastic bottles in favor of reusable alternatives. It’s better for your health too, PET bottles are a paradise for bacteria which can build up in unwashed bottles, and let’s face it, who is really washing their plastic water bottle between uses? There’s no shortage of easy to wash bottles on the market. Avoid plastic and opt for glass or stainless steel and, if you’re feeling extra fancy you could even try and insulated or filtered bottle.

3. Buy in Bulk

Another great way to avoid unnecessary packaging is to buy in bulk. Check online for bulk food stores in your neighborhood, try health or specialty stores or head to the local farmer’s market. Sometimes you can even buy directly from suppliers. You may need to do a little research, but it’s well worth the effort. Just don’t forget to bring your own containers or bags to fill up!

4. Mend, Thrift Shop, Swap

With the rise of fast fashion, we’re buying and throwing out more garments than ever. According to the Council for Textile Recycling, The US produces around 21 billion pounds of textile waste per year! Instead of heading to the high street for your fashion fix, freshen up your wardrobe with a trip to the local charity shop or organize a clothes swap with your friends. If you have to buy new, buy good quality basics that will last you beyond one season, and instead of throwing out clothes, mend, repurpose or donate items that you no longer use.

5. Compost

The The United States Environmental Protection Agency says that organic waste makes up about 20 to 30 per cent of household waste in the US, most of which ends up in a landfill. By diverting organic waste from ending up in the landfill, composting also reduces methane production (a major source of greenhouse gas), so you’ll not only be reducing your waste production, you’ll also be reducing your carbon footprint! Speak to your local council to find out if there’s a municipal compost you can take your food scraps to or start your own indoors or outdoors compost heap. It’s actually super easy to set up and it’s great for plants.