Zero Waste Living One Person at a Time

When I first heard the phrase Zero Waste Living and started to research what that was, I was overjoyed. I had been doing some of these things already. And with a community of people out there willing to share their experiences and knowledge. Anything you do, no matter how small, will have a positive effect. You don’t have to be perfect, only mindful. And that will lead you towards a healthier life. Mind, body, spirit, and the community in which you live. One person does make a difference.

Think About Your Purchases

Ask yourself, do I need this? Is it something that I can borrow or buy second-hand? Is it something I already have and only needs to be repaired? Do I have something at home that can be reused or repurposed? When you start to ask yourself these questions, you are limiting your amount of waste and saving some money in the process.

Say No to Single-Use Plastics

Plastics can contain bioactive chemicals, like bisphenol A (BPA) and phosphates. Which can mess with our hormones. Not to mention piling up in our landfills and waterways. Straws, plastic bottles, food containers, shopping bags, cutlery. If you need to have a straw, there are bamboo or metal reusable ones that you can keep in your car. Purchase a water bottle. They even have them with filters.  Instead of using plastic food containers, save your glass bottles from other foods for storage. Invest in beeswax wraps to cover a bowl, wrap a sandwich. Keep tote bags in your car for shopping. Wrap a set of silverware in a cloth napkin or small cloth bag and keep it in your car and or at work. We found a great little local store in Liberty Hill, The Wildflower Republic that has all these wonderful products in stock.

Shop Bulk Foods

In doing so, you eliminate spending your money on plastic-wrapped dry foods. Bring your own cloth bags and store your bulk foods in glass containers at home. Many shops have bulk foods for sale. HEB, Sprouts, and Whole Foods to name a few. Sanctuary Holistic Kitchen in Georgetown has a bulk herb and apothecary section as well as a craft bar and DIY events.

Shop Local Farmers Markets

Your food will be fresh and free of plastic wrapping. Many vendors that sell eggs will also take or exchange egg cartons and some except glass jars for candle making.  Your Farmers Market is rich in healthy foods and knowledge. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Get Creative and Have Some Fun

If you have some old t-shirts, turn them into tote bags or mini linen packs that work as a utensil holder and napkin. Tin cans can become lanterns. Glass jars, with a little paint and a small drawer pull can become a decorative container. The possibilities are endless and it’s a great way to get the family involved and have some fun together. Check out our little video by Fairyland Cottage.com on how to start up with sustainability and saving money one creative step at a time.

Remember, it’s not about perfection. Each small thing that we do makes a difference.