After going plant-based, I realised just how much of an impact we can each have on the environment. Going vegan opened my eyes to the impact that animal agriculture has on the earth (which you can read more on here), but then I also realised that there were so many other aspects of my life that could be adapted, to help me leave a lighter footprint on the planet.
I recently came across the documentary "A Plastic Ocean" which has inspired me to write up this article, dedicated towards reducing waste in our everyday lives.
Keep in mind: It's not about being perfect and living a completely zero waste lifestyle (although if you do that’s pretty amazing). For me, it was realising that every decision, no matter how small, can make a huge difference in either benefiting the planet or contributing to its downfall. So when I can make a better choice, I do…because why not?
Single use plastic appears everywhere: As packaging over our food and products, clothing, labels, screen protectors, on printed photos, envelopes, plastic bags and containers, …yep, everywhere.
Most of the plastics we use are disposable plastics; these are ones that are used once (maybe twice), before the plastic makes it's way to landfill, and/or into our oceans.
Here's some facts that pretty much summarises how scary the situation is:
"Over the last ten years we have produced more plastic than during the whole of the last century.
50 percent of the plastic we use, we use just once and throw away.
Enough plastic is thrown away each year to circle the earth four times.
Annually approximately 500 billion plastic bags are used worldwide. More than one million bags are used every minute.
It takes 500-1,000 years for plastic to degrade.
One million sea birds and 100,000 marine mammals are killed annually from plastic in our oceans.
Plastic chemicals can be absorbed by the body. Some of these compounds found in plastic have been found to alter hormones or have other potential human health effects.
Virtually every piece of plastic that was ever made still exists in some shape or form (with the exception of the small amount that has been incinerated)"
Source: EcoWatch
So how do we stop using plastic? Well we can always make a point of using much less. That’s why I've covered all of my zero waste living solutions below that I personally love and find super easy to incorporate into my life.
These are some simple switches that I've become inspired to make to seriously cut down the amount of disposable plastics that I go through. Maybe you'll find them useful too :)
SHOPPING
Reusable grocery bags - Carrying tote bags and reusable grocery bags around with you (or folded into your day bag) can prevent you from needing to use a new plastic bag each time you visit the grocery store. This habit reduces so much unnecessary plastic waste! And helps to keep your home clutter free from a build up of plastic grocery bags.
Reusable produce bags - Definitely a TNE favourite. Use these in stores to purchase loose fruits, veggies, greens, nuts and other produce, and you'll have no need to use the plastic produce bag that are often supplied by supermarkets. These bags can be reused for years, and are also perfect for organising loose produce in your fridge and pantry.
Buying in bulk - Shopping at the bulk food section of your grocery store allows you to purchase pantry staples (grains, beans, chocolate, dried fruit, powders…the list goes on) without the plastic packaging that they usually come encased it. You can bring your own jar/produce bag to fill up, or use the compostable paper bags which should be provided by the store. This eliminates the plastic from your purchase, and can sometimes even be cheaper because you won't be paying for packaging.
SELF-CARE
Reusable water bottle - Obvious but so key ! My favourite is a stainless steel bottle like this one, which keeps your water at a constant temperature. If I forget my drink bottle I'd personally rather go thirsty for the day rather than buy a plastic bottle that'll last forever. Otherwise I'll opt for water contained in a glass bottle (like VOSS water). These may cost little extra, but they're better for the planet and can be reused forever to store water, smoothies and juices.
Bamboo toothbrush - Most of the 7 billion people in the world will go through several plastic toothbrushes each year…so imagine how much waste that contributes to landfill and the oceans. Bamboo toothbrushes have soft bristles, a biodegradable handle, and look pretty in storage. They also brush just as well as a regular plastic toothbrush.
Menstrual cups - For all the females out there, these are amaaaazing. Actually life changing. Our current favourite is the Lunette but there are so many brands out there so find one that you like best. It's an investment that will save you money in the long run and perfectly complements a minimal waste lifestyle.
Safety razor - These reusable, recyclable razors have replaceable blades so you'll never need to buy a new plastic razor again. As they last for years (if not forever), they're an investment that'll save you money in the long run. The brands we've used and love are Parker razors and Kappi razors, but there are so many other brands out there ! So research and find one you'll love.
GADGETS
Glass/liquid screen protector - Use these to replace the traditional plastic screen protectors on your phone. These can prevent screen cracks, scratches and air bubbles just as well as normal plastic screen protector. The liquid version can also be used on watches or any other glass screen regardless of size, which is convenient.
Compostable phone case - Yesss it true. Companies out there have created phone cases to be completely compostable, which are made from corn-starch and flaxseeds. We currently use the Pela case, but other companies such as Casetify also makes them too.
Reusable straws - Plastic straws are non-recyclable, and the most common pollutant found in beaches across the world. If you can't go without a straw, then perhaps it's time to invest in a reusable metal, glass, silicone or bamboo straws instead. Keep them in your home, car and bag so you’ll never feel the need to accept a plastic straw again.
Compostable bin liners - The fact that we can make ‘plastic’ products that are not actually plastic, and instead entirely compostable…just blows my mind. These are the perfect addition to any household where plastic bags are avoided altogether.
EVERYTHING ELSE
Use containers - I absolutely love glass containers from meal prepping, leftovers, or to take with me on the go. Instead of using zip lock bags or a plastic food wrap, you could invest in containers to store your food and products. These can be reused for years and are perfect for keeping you fridge beautifully organised.
Find alternatives - There are plastic free alternatives to pretty much anything! Some may be more affordable or convenient than others, but simply being aware of all the alternatives means you can share these ideas with others. Keep a lookout for sales, and make plans every so often to incorporate new waste free solutions into your life.
Share your habits - Having conversations with friend and family about your favourite plastic free hacks can encourage them to swap a plastic product with something more sustainable. This leads to an even greater reduction in waste.
Nourish tip: We don't claim to be a zero waste household(just yet!). The frozen berries we enjoy at home come in a clear plastic zip lock bag. Instead of immediately throwing these away, we rinse them out and use these as freezer bags to for bananas, cookies, falafels and pre-prepared smoothies (virtually anything).
I hope this article has inspired you to incorporate more zero waste solutions into your lifestyle. Making a difference to the planet isn't hard, I promise. Having a positive impact is all about consistency and your intentions - it doesn’t require an 'all or nothing' approach. It's just going out of your way every now and then to choose a more planet friendly option, which in the long run makes a difference.
♡ ANGELA
Disclaimer: The products mentioned in this article are ones we love and want to share with you. We are not affiliated with any of the products used on this page.
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