As the state of the planet continues to decline, more and more people are looking for ways to make a positive impact. One of the most significant ways we can all reduce our impact is by creating less waste. Going zero waste is a great way to reduce your household rubbish and help the environment at the same time. In this guide, we’ll go through what it means to go zero waste and some practical tips to reduce your waste output at home.
What is going zero waste?
Going zero waste is a lifestyle movement where you aim to reduce your waste production to as close to zero as possible. The goal is for everything you consume to be reusable, compostable, or recyclable. This includes everyday items such as food packaging, clothing, and even household appliances. The idea behind going zero waste is to reduce what you throw in your trash can, which ultimately ends up in a landfill.
Tips for reducing household rubbish
1. Reusable bags: Invest in reusable bags made of materials such as cotton or recycled fibers. Keep them in your car or by the door, so you don’t forget them when you’re running errands.
2. Composting: Start composting food scraps and organic waste. This will reduce the amount of waste sent to the landfill and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
3. Say no to single-use plastics: Avoid using single-use plastics such as take-out containers, straws, plastic wrap, and water bottles.
4. Buy in bulk: When you buy in bulk, you reduce the amount of packaging used in packaging individual products. Take your own jars or containers to the store to avoid using plastic bags or containers.
5. Use cloth instead of paper: Replace paper towels and napkins with cloth options. This includes washable dishcloths and cloth napkins.
6. Repair instead of replacing: Before you throw out a broken appliance or clothing item, see if it’s repairable. Repairing is often cheaper than replacing, and it keeps items out of the landfill.
7. Recycling: Learn what can and can’t be recycled in your area. Be sure to rinse all containers before recycling them to avoid contamination.
In conclusion, going zero waste is a significant lifestyle change, but it can have a positive impact on the planet. By making small changes at home, you can reduce your waste production and help create a cleaner, healthier environment. Remember to start small and focus on one change at a time. Over time, you’ll be surprised how much of an impact you can make.