Zero waste week 2022 is here! If you’re wondering what this even means, let me tell you. Zero waste week is an annual campaign that works super hard to raise awareness around our waste production so that we can begin to learn about the steps we can take to reduce our landfill and waste in the oceans.
The truth is, we’re filling up our home with trash, our oceans with plastic and our homes with stuff. By embracing a few simple steps you can begin to alter your mindset. The zero-waste movement has taught me that the lifestyle choices I make can stink! But this also means that I have way more power than I ever thought. What we buy and consume is our way of telling companies what world we want. Once we know the alternatives we’ll be better at saying no to a trashy world.
I get it. The thought of producing no trash can seem overwhelming – even impossible. But the point of Zero Waste Week 2022 is to help you adopt simple changes that will make a lot of difference. Are you ready?
Food Waste
We’re starting with food because it concerns us all. And as a result, we’re all part of this waste cycle. Think about how much of the food you buy or make go to waste. When it comes to moving towards a less wasteful life, here are some simple steps you can take:
- Buy only what you need. When it comes to fresh produce, make sure you don’t buy anything you won’t eat. Less is always better. End of the day, you can go back and buy more.
- When it comes to food that lasts, do the opposite. Buy in bulk so that you can reduce food packaging, which is often plastic.
- It’s simple and easy and everyone should get on board. Most of the trash we produce comes from food.
- Stick to local and seasonal. Begin to think about how food travels to your supermarkets. Since going local, I have learned so much more about nutrition. Get interested in what grows when and where, and make the right choices.
- One more on food: think about animal farming and the dairy industry. A glass of milk uses up the same amount of water an average person would use to shower for three months. Let that sink in.
Go Package-free
So much of what we buy is wrapped in useless plastic packaging that ends up in a landfill. This Zero Waste Week 2022, try these tactics to reduce your packaging:
- Start with personal care products such as soaps and shampoos. By switching to a Bar Shampoo or Soap you reduce your plastic, save money and avoid toxins and chemicals. It’s a win-win.
- Another great way of reducing your packaging is by making your own products. All you need is white vinegar, a cloth, and baking soda when it comes to cleaning. So simple. The house will shine and you don’t have to worry about chemicals.
- Food packaging is a big one. Take your own reusable bags and avoid plastic bags. Trust me your fruit and veg can be friends. Choose glass over plastic and if you’ve got bulk stores near by, then pay them a visit.
Reusable vs. Disposable
One of the most important (and believe it or not easiest) steps is to switch those disposables for reusable items that last for years to come. This will save you so much waste and so much money. Here are some tips:
- Think about what you take with you to work on a daily. Do you enjoy your coffee? Need to stay hydrated all day long? It’s time you invest in a good quality reusable travel mug and water bottle. Think about all the plastic you’ll save.
- Always, and I mean always, carry a reusable bag with you. You never know when you need it. They weigh nothing and can easily be folded away in your pocket.
- Ladies, this one is for you. Disposable pads and tampons are uncomfortable and unhealthy and add much to landfills. So it’s time to make a switch to the Menstrual Cup. The ecological, reusable and affordable alternatives you’ve been waiting for.
There you have it. Simple tips to get you started this Zero Waste Week 2022.
If you are interested to read more of our zero waste articles, check all of them here!
We want to hear from you. Let us know what you do to reduce your waste.
