When you start living a more zero-waste lifestyle, you’ll realize that there may be a lot of lifestyle changes you need to make. It might seem overwhelming in the beginning. Even if you’ve done lots of research and read tons of blog posts, it’ll be confusing in the beginning. To help you along the way and show you how to bring tiny changes to your zero-waste journey, we listed 6 zero-waste tips for beginners:
- Second-hand shopping
The textile industry and fast-fashion have long been known as one of the big contributors to pollution. Instead, you can buy unique pieces of clothing from charity or vintage shops. Unlike first-hand stores, items in second-hand stores are not sold in many different sizes or colors, so it’s easier to find vintage pieces.
- Reusable coffee cup and water bottle
By having your own reusable coffee cup or bottle, not only you will avoid contributing to plastic pollution, but you will also save money. Many big chain stores, Starbucks, for example, even offer a discount to customers who bring their own reusable coffee cup instead of buying a new one for each drink.
- Friends and family.
Adopting new habits is much easier when you get your friends and family involved. Share your journey with them, tell them what excites you the most about the zero-waste lifestyle, why you decided to give it a try, and how it makes you feel.
- Jars
Having jars for storage is one of the most efficient ways to switch to a zero-waste lifestyle. They’re easy to clean, eco-friendly and you can reuse them over and over again! Instead of buying products in a plastic bag when you do your grocery, you can easily fill your jars with the products you need.
- Bars
Invest in some good old-fashioned bar of hand soap or shampoo. Products in bar forms are mostly made with natural ingredients and also good for the environment. This might seem a little one, but imagine how much plastic waste bottled cleaning products create each year! Also, by choosing locally-made bar products instead of major brands, you contribute to the local economy and people who make these products.
- Reusable straws
Along with plastic shopping bags, many cities are starting to ban plastic straws for the harm they cause. Not only are they clogging up our landfills, but they’re also getting in our waterways and hurting wildlife. Nowadays, plenty of companies offer different kinds of reusable straws, from bamboo straws to metal ones. Choose the one that fits you the best and protect the oceans and wildlife!
