When I first found out about the Zero Waste Movement I tried to jump right in. Time and time again I failed (and continue to fail) and felt guilty for it.
Then I spoke with a friend in the park about developing micro-habits. Science shows that instead of biting off more than you can chew, if you start with little habits, they begin to add up and change your larger behavior.
There are so many great little behaviors I’ve developed through this movement and every day I am discovering more pain-free ways to live with less waste.
Here are 25 behaviors you can choose from and adopt to start living with less waste today:
Stop buying paper towels and napkins. Buy cloth napkins and rags or cut up old T-Shirts. People lived before paper towels!
Buy all of your shelf-stable goods (like toilet paper) in bulk
Live minimally. Quit buying stuff you don’t need altogether. Before you buy anything, ask yourself, do I really need this?
Eat in-season fruits & vegetables more & meat & cheese less
Eat off of real plates with silverware rather than going out for fast food
Cut back the number of items you buy at the grocery store. If you don’t over-shop, you’ll be more likely to actually use the food you purchase.
Cut back on the amount of food you order out and share meals with your friends & loved ones so you don’t take away leftovers you might not eat — or bring a tupperware with you to the restaurant
Bring reusable shopping bags with you every time you shop
If you must pick up a plastic or paper bag, use it for your trash that week!
Buy products in glass over plastic
Wash out glassware like pasta containers & use them for storage
Say no to straws and lids
Take shorter showers
Pair down your cosmetics & beauty routine + the number of products you use
Switch to almond milk or another non-dairy milk
Avoid convenience stores altogether — they’re a trap!
Walk or ride your bike wherever you can
Compost & recycle
Shop at thrift stores
Bring a water bottle or coffee mug with you whenever you go out
Pack your own tupperware and food when traveling
Shop at a bulk store and put your groceries directly into glassware
Make your own food at home from scratch
Make your own DIY beauty & home products from natural materials
Choose to live in a smaller space or with roommates
If you are interested in learning more about Zero Waste I highly recommend checking out Gittemary's channel on YouTube!