The desire to move to a zero-waste lifestyle is one that should be applauded. With our oceans full of plastic, landfills overflowing with waste and skies choked by pollution, moving towards a zero-waste lifestyle is something we should all be aiming for.
We understand that the thought of living a zero waste life has likely crossed your mind but also likely feels overwhelming. With all the possibilities out there, anyone would feel the same! The thing to remember is that you don’t have to do it perfectly. Many people, making small steps towards zero waste living can make massive changes for the environment.
To help you kickstart your zero waste lifestyle, here are some easy changes you can make to become a zero waste God or Goddess literally overnight:
What does zero waste mean?
Simply explained zero waste means nothing ends up on landfill. Your product is either made for long use or is biodegradable. However there are different other ways in how you can be zero-waste. The Hierarchy of Material Management or better know the 5 R's, consist of 5 steps or ways on how you can avoid creating waste:
- Refuse what you don't need (for example avoid those plastic bags from the grocery store by bringing your own bag).
- Reduce the things you need by thinking responsible. Buy less clothing, take your bike more instead of your car...
- Reuse when you can ex.: using those glass makeup jars for storing items.
- Recycle if the previous steps aren't possible.
- Rot , biodegradable items are key here.
Implementing these steps into your life will make a difference. Making easy swaps for daily household items for a zero waste alternative is a great place to start. Here are some options that we love:
Reusable Cleansing Pads & Cloths
Did you know that a woman on average uses up to 6 cotton pads a day? That’s 2100 pieces a year that end up in the landfill. Imagine how you can reduce that number by simply making the switch to a single reusable cleansing cloth. Perfect for removing your makeup efficiently and cleansing your face, whilst also gently exfoliating.
- Eye of Horus Organic Bamboo Cleansing Kit
- Black Chicken Remedies Muslin Face Cloth Pack
Nourished tip: when you no longer wish to use your old face cloths, they are still useful for cleaning dishes and surfaces or any other way you like!
Reusable Cotton Swabs
These small household staples are used in most homes, in most countries across the globe, on a daily basis for cleaning ears and fixing makeup mishaps. Making the swap to reusable cotton swabs does make a difference, using 1 reusable swab can replace 1000 regular ones, including their nasty plastic sticks! And with the options available at Nourished, there is something for everyone:
- LastSwab Basic Cotton Swabs, for squeaky clean ears
- LastSwab Beauty Cotton Swabs, for removing any makeup errors.
- Want a more eco-friendly cotton swab but not a fan of a reusable option? Another great alternative are the Bamboo Cotton Swabs from The Humble Co.
Beeswax Wraps
Say goodbye to your single use plastic wraps and bags, with the Beeswax Wraps from SuperBee. Great for packing your lunch, to cover fruit and veggies, or as a lid on jars, plates and so on. To make it even better these wraps have natural antibacterial properties, cleaner and better for both your food and the planet!
Check out all the different BeesWax Wraps sizes here.
Active Charcoal Water Filter
Maybe not the first thing when you think about zero-waste living but worth the mention! Used many years ago in Japan, this method of purifying water only uses Charcoal material. This Active Charcoal Water Filter will make your tap water cleaner than ever before.
This alternative to plastic water filters and cans, is not only better for making sure your water is truly toxin-free, but it’s also a great natural and zero-waste item to have in your home!
There you go, easy swaps that will get you started on your zero waste journey! Explore the complete zero waste collection at Nourished here.
References
+ Kazidomi. 6 alternatives for a waste-free bathroom. January 2021.
+ Sustainable Jungle. What is zero waste?
