Garbage stinks. Yet we produce so much of it. Imagine a different lifestyle – one where ‘waste’ doesn’t exist. Living Zero-Waste lifestyle means making some changes, and even some sacrifices. But it’s worth it: you contribute nothing to landfill (and believe me, the world doesn’t need any more trash), you live a life with less clutter, less things, and instead more experience and meaning. By tuning away from things that are heavily packaged, you also benefit your health. Think about all the preservatives you’ll avoid.
As someone who is still transitioning (everyday is part of a journey), I have some SUPER simple tips to help you reduce your waste, and to eventually get it to nothing. But like anything else in life, give yourself time, and allow yourself to make the changes with mindfulness and patience.
Most people think living with less waste means more money, more time and more effort. To make life easier for you, here are the 4 simple alternatives and tips that will drastically reduce your consumption and waste. When we say simple, we mean changes anyone can make. Are you ready to go Zero-Waste lifestyle?
Plastic Bags vs. An Organic Cotton Tote Bag
Never ever use a plastic bag. It’s a simple and effective way to reduce your waste, and avoid plastic (which is hardly ever recycled). Consider a durable cotton bag that you can carry with you wherever you go. The best part is that you can fold it away into your purse or back pocket. If it gets dirty, wash it, and reuse. That’s how it’s done. Simple, cheap and easy. Just remember to take it everywhere with you.
Tampons & Pads vs. Diva Cup
Think about the resources that are used to make tampons and pads. And it’s not a one-time thing. We use it every month for many many years. They’re uncomfortable, expensive and wasteful. The Diva Cup is made out of medical silicon and can be cleansed and reused again and again.
Disposable Water Bottle vs. A Reusable Water Bottle
I think paying for water is ridiculous. What’s even worse is paying for water that is kept in plastic (with all its chemicals and toxins), and then piled away and added to landfill. Doesn’t it make sense to buy a reusable bottle instead? This way no one has to pay for water or be exposed to harmful chemicals from the plastic.
Packaged Soap & Shampoo vs. Bar Soaps
Most of the soaps and shampoos we use are packaged in plastic. On top of that, many of these products use fragrance and chemicals that don’t actually take care of your skin or hair. An easy way to take care of your health, save money and the planet, is to switch over to bar soaps. Try our Shampoo Bars for chemical-free and healthy hair. The best bit is that bar soaps hardly use any packaging – and when they do, it’s usually from paper or cardboard that is biodegradable or at least recyclable.
If this is all new to you, don’t worry. There are easy ways to go Zero-Waste lifestyle. All you have to do is start evaluating your lifestyle to find alternatives for the disposable and plastic products that you use. Try investing in durable products that you can reuse again and again. This is the best way to reduce your consumption, waste and of course spending.
