Zero-waste living is a lifestyle that aims to significantly reduce what ends up thrown out. Essentially, the goal is to create absolutely no garbage. While that sounds like a challenge, there are ways to go about it. Here are ten items to ditch to achieve zero waste living, as well as some alternative products to use instead.
1. Paper Towels
While paper towels are convenient, since they’re designed to be disposable, they create waste. If you’re aiming for zero-waste living, move away from paper towels entirely. Instead, use a reusable option, like dish towels or rags.
If you want to take it even further, creating your own cleaning cloths from clothing or fabric items that are no longer wearable or usable is a smart move. Cotton t-shirts, old sheets, and similar options are excellent for turning into cleaning rags. Usually, you just need some scissors and a few minutes to break them down.
2. Plastic Storage Bags
Plastic storage bags for holding food will eventually lead to waste, even if you try to reuse them a few times first. Fortunately, there are excellent alternatives that don’t end up in your garbage. Silicone food bags are one example. Glass containers – including mason jars – or metal containers are also ideal for storing food. All of those options are easy to clean, and they’re long-lasting. Plus, glass and metal are often recyclable.
3. Bottled Water
Buying bottled water is going to lead to waste, so it’s not ideal if you’re aiming for zero-waste living. If you need water while on the go, get a reusable water bottle that you can fill at home instead. Similarly, a reusable water bottle works well when you’re at work or school.
If you need to buy water because your home drinking water isn’t in great condition, find a store with a refill station. Then, you can keep using the same one-gallon water bottles to meet your needs at home without generating unnecessary waste.
4. Facial Tissues
When it comes to products that are essentially never reused, facial tissues undeniably qualify. While convenient, they aren’t a good match to zero-waste living. Instead, get packages of reusable handkerchiefs. That way, you can wash and reuse them for years.
5. Plastic Grocery Bags
While using the plastic grocery bags provided by your local store is convenient, those bags usually end up in the garbage. If you want to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle, then go with reusable cloth grocery bags instead. Ideally, you want to choose cloth bags made from sustainable materials, as those are less impactful than some alternatives.
Another option you can try is reusing any plastic grocery bags you’ve received. Simply bring the old ones with you during your next trip. That way, you can get as much mileage out of them as possible before they ultimately get thrown away.
6. Bottled Shampoo
Most shampoo comes in plastic bottles, and you don’t usually have the option to refill them. If you don’t have a local plastic recycling program, those bottles ultimately get thrown away, leading to waste.
Instead, try alternatives to traditional bottled shampoo. Many shampoo bars work incredibly well, and they usually come in eco-friendlier packaging. Some companies also sell shampoo in plastic-free containers and have refill programs, allowing you to reduce your waste.
7. Wood Skewers or Chopsticks
Wood skewers and chopsticks (even bamboo varieties) aren’t the most eco-friendly option out there. Usually, once you’re done using them, you throw them in the trash, so they do create waste. Luckily, it’s easy to find metal versions that you can reuse for years. Plus, the metal ones are typically dishwasher-safe, so they’re a convenient alternative, too.
8. Pre-Filled Coffee Pods and Paper Coffee Filters
Pre-filled coffee pods are essentially single-use, and even if they’re recyclable, they aren’t ideal for zero-waste living. If you have a coffee pod machine, buy a reusable filter instead. Along with reducing waste, it allows you to make coffee with whatever brand of coffee you prefer.
Paper coffee filters similarly create unnecessary waste. If you use a traditional drip coffee machine, get a reusable metal filter instead. They’re easy to use and wash, and they’ll do a similarly good job.
9. Facial Wipes
Facial wipes are incredibly convenient, but they’re guaranteed to create unnecessary waste. Instead, use a bar soap that’s designed specifically for facial cleansing and get a reusable washcloth that you can wash.
If you’re dealing with stubborn makeup, you can try coconut oil instead of facial wipes. The coconut oil does an excellent job, and it’s fantastic for moisturizing the skin.
10. Magazines and Newspapers
While many people enjoy reading magazines, they aren’t something you’ll typically reread for years to come. Instead, they usually get thrown away or recycled. Fortunately, you can still enjoy a printed magazine without generating waste.
Many libraries have copies of popular ones available, giving you a way to enjoy the publications for free and without anything ending up in your trash. You may also be able to access digital versions instead, particularly if you have an e-reader. While a digital magazine has a different feel, it has the same content, so it’s a viable alternative.
Newspapers are similar. Most people read them the day they arrive and won’t pick them up again, instead sending them out in the garbage or recycling. Libraries may also have a variety of newspapers available, and most of those publications are also online.
Do you have any other tips for households that want to transition toward zero-waste living? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Read More:
How to Integrate Sustainability into Your Spending
6 “Frugal Tips” That Are Not Worth Your Time and Effort
5 Practical Tips to Cut Food Waste and Improve Savings
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