Firstly, I must say that nobody can truly become ‘zero’ waste. But, with each UK household generating over a tonne of waste each year, we should all be actively trying to reduce the amount of rubbish we use daily.
There are certain things like wrapping for plasters, or tags for clothes, that are, usually, unavoidable. But some things people believe to be unavoidable, like tampons or tissues, have morphed into something entirely different already. Reusable cloths rather than kitchen roles have been created and there is a whole market of tampon and pad alternatives out there for the environmentally-conscious lady.
If you would, think for a moment about the amount of waste you may personally produce during a typical day. This may be a mere wrapper for a chocolate bar, or it may be a whole bin bag fit for a family. Go through your day– what do you do? buy? wear? eat? Whatever it may be, know that it can be reduced.
Make a singular difference in your day. Just one, small difference, to make a dent on the grounds of your life. That plastic sandwich bag you bring to work could become a container or lunch box, for instance.
This may sound like a daunting task, wasteful mannerisms are a large part of the western culture, after all. To eat until we’re so full our buttons pop, or to treat ourselves with that extra snack, wrapped in layers of thick, (often unrecyclable) plastic, is something we all do, far too often. Even our crisps are concealed containing more air than anything else. Unnecessary plastic is manufactured for no reason at all. Things like pill containers are mostly composed of tinfoil and plastic sheets than the medicine themselves. Things like pill bottles are far better.
The fact that, when we go to our local supermarket- Sainsbury’s, Tescos, Morrisons, Waitrose, etc, and carry out plastic which covers our vegetables, our snacks, and almost everything else we purchase is, within itself, entirely unnecessary.
Recently, a new epidemic has surfaced. A new way of shopping has born. There are many stores in the UK that work a different way to your typical store. Usually more difficult to find, but in plain sight, if you’re looking.
They’re stores that allow you to fill up bags brought from home. You can bring anything you want, a glass jar, a tub, or those plastic bags from Sainsbury’s you’ve got crammed in your drawers still, with lots of goodies– guilt free! You’re no longer generating waste this way. Your crisps can be packed away, air free this time.
Here are a few tips to help you become zero waste:
1.) Get a milkman
Yes, they still do exist, and they save you the empty cartons to take care of.
2.) Shop at a waste-free store
Click HERE to find a local waste-free store near you.
3.) Get a bamboo toothbrush.
They’re far better than the plastic ones at home.
4.) Have a go at making your own face masks, shampoos and soaps.
It’s easier than you think, and a fun activity to do!
5.) Get your clothes from Vintage Kilo Sales, or Charity stores.
They’re getting new homes, rather than being thrown away. You’ll be surprised to see how many brand-new clothes find their way to the charity store. Additionally, of course, the money goes to charity!
6.) Reuse your plastic bags!
7.) Bring your own flask to your routine coffee store.
Some stores, like the Boston Tea Party, don’t give out takeaway cups anymore. So get your own flask to make your take-aways easier, keep your coffee hotter for longer, and help the world while you’re at it.
8.) Don’t get a straw with your drink.
You’ve seen the adds, they don’t end up any place nice. Get your own glass, bamboo, or wood alternative.
9.) If you’re a lady, try a tampon alternative.
There are plenty of options out there! Who knows, you might find one that works even better for you.
And lastly…
10.) Eat more home-cooked meals and snacks.
Not only is it cost efficient, healthier (usually), and especially made for you, it’s saving you from having that leftover trash.
These are just some of the few countless ways to become waste free. Whether you’re wanting to become completely self-sustaining, or if you’re hoping to reduce the number of cups you use, know you are making an incredible difference. Both we at The Youth Climate Summit and the world thank you!
Comment below what you have chosen, and how/if it has changed anything for you.
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