The zero waste movement is very popular, especially with young people.
But what does zero waste mean?
Here is everything you need to know about zero waste, including its main principles, tips, and resources to help you get started.
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Zero Waste Definition
Zero waste refers to throwing away as little as possible. It means reusing and repurposing objects first and recycling and composting the rest instead of sending them to the landfill.
Zero waste aims to minimize consumption and make lifestyle changes that help the environment.
Why Zero Waste Is Important
We are using the earth’s resources at an unsustainable rate.
According to the EPA, the average person produces 4.9lbs of trash per day. That adds up to over 1,700lbs per year – roughly the size of a small car!
Some people try to reverse or slow this trend by living a zero waste lifestyle.
As a result, their yearly trash output fits in a mason jar.
Source: National Geographic
Lots of young couples, families, and professionals life a zero waste lifestyle.
So what is zero waste? Here is everything you need to know.
Zero Waste Origin
The concept of minimizing waste dates back for centuries. People have reused and repurposed objects for hundreds of years.
Zero waste aims to apply the same concept to modern society.
5 Main Principles of Zero Waste
1. Refuse
Say "no" to waste in your daily life. For example, use a reusable water bottle or coffee mug instead of a plastic water bottle or disposable cup.
Bring your own utensils instead of using plastic ones at a restaurant or when ordering takeout. Bamboo utensils are incredibly popular!
Create less waste by using plastic-free toothpaste in a reusable tin.
There are hundreds of ways to refuse waste and minimize your impact on the environment!
2. Reduce
Don't buy items you don't really need. Try being minimilistic and only purchase the essentials! Less stuff means a simpler life!
3. Reuse
Reuse items instead of buying new ones. Or give items like clothes and supplies away instead of throwing them to.
Also, purchase second-hand items whenever possible. You will save money and help the planet!
4. Recycle
Put items in the proper receptacles so they can be recycled and used again.
5. Rot
Compost whatever you must throw away and try to buy biodegradable items that will break down over time.
Zero Waste Benefits
1. It Prioritizes Generating Less Waste
A lot of people assume we can solve our problem by recycling more. But recycling isn't a perfect solution.
According to the EPA, only about 32% of our waste is recycled. There is too much waste; plants can't process it all!
Check out the infographic below from GreenPeace.org. Most items are not accepted and therefore aren't recycled.
Recycling is a helpful practice, but it should be one of our last resorts.
Zero waste prioritizes eliminating waste in the first place so we can avoid it altogether instead of figuring out what to do with it after the fact.
2. It Creates a Supportive Community
There are hundreds of online communities and in-person groups dedicated to sharing ideas and supporting one another on their zero waste journey.
Tons of people have created lifelong friendships and benefited from connecting with like-minded individuals.
3. It Offers Health Benefits
Going zero waste often results in less exposure to toxic chemicals and processed foods.
4. It Saves Money
Buying second-hand, repurposing items, buying fresh foods, and buying in bulk can save a lot of money. One blogger saved about $5,000 per year!
5. It Reduces Clutter
Studies have shown correlations between minimalism and increased happiness. People with less stuff reportedly have better relationships, less anxiety, and are more focused on having positive experiences instead of collecting things.
6. You Can Customize It to Fit Your Lifestyle
Lastly, you can make the changes that fit best with your lifestyle. There is no "right way" and lots of people use different strategies.
For instance, some people eliminate meat and switch to a plant-based diet while others continue eating meat but choose to make their own cleaning products. It is up to you!
How to Get Started with Zero Waste
1. Identify Your Motivation
What is your motivation? Do you want to create a healthier environment for future generations? Or are you an outdoor enthusiast that wants to enjoy nature without pollution?
Your drive and goals will sustain your enthusiasm for this life-long journey.
2. Learn From Others
Seek out experts and fellow enthusiasts. Learn how they got started and what obstacles they have overcome.
Do your research! Start with books and guides like the ones below.
Kathryn Kellogg and Julia Watkins are considered the experts on zero waste and their best-selling books have been an incredible resource for hundreds of people!
3. Start With Small Changes
Analyze your daily habits and start making small changes. For example, use a paperless notebook for work or school. Our readers love Rocketbook!
Go green today!
Rocketbook is available on Amazon. There are a ton of success stories and our readers rave about it!
If you are headed to the gym then grab a reusable water bottle instead of a plastic one. We love Hydrocell!
When ordering takeout decline plastic silverware and extra napkins.
Start with low-hanging fruit and work your way up to bigger changes.
If you need more guidance, buy a zero waste kit off the web. They have everything you need to get started quickly!
4. Be Patient
Give yourself a break, don't sweat it if you make mistakes. It is all about the journey and knowing that you are doing your part to help the earth!
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