Is it possible to stop generating waste? Can we eliminate or minimize the waste of what we consume? I believe that you have to start somewhere, so if you want to join this global trend, I suggest you join the Zero Waste movement .
I am already making different decisions when choosing products. I know it's a grain of sand, but I also know that if we add many small actions we can promote the global change that the planet needs.
I invite you to do it with me. You sign up?
5 Zero Waste decisions that we can join
The first important change that you and I can make today is to start being aware of the impact of our consumption routines.
Have you noticed the amount of packaging that passes through your hands daily?
I have been recycling paper, glass and plastic for years , which is already a step forward, but I believe that if we really want to have a positive impact on the planet, we must go further.
My next step has been to choose sustainable packaging , that is, reject plastics, opt for natural raw materials and recycled materials.
All those smart little decisions add up and help bring about the collective mindset shift. More and more people are demanding that brands offer packaging options that are not aggressive with the environment.
And the Zero Waste movement ?
It goes even further: I have now made it my mission to eliminate waste and stop individually contributing to the enormous amount of waste that is produced globally every day.
But how is that done? I can tell you how I do it and, if you want, you can start by implementing these 5 changes:
1. Reduce consumption of processed foods
Because? Simply because they need a lot more plastic and cardboard packaging. Sometimes food is even packaged for individual servings : more unnecessary waste.
Convenience is sold: you buy a pre-cooked tray, remove the plastic, put it in the microwave and it's ready to eat. Granted, it's comfortable, but it's also unsustainable.
Better, I fill my shopping cart with natural foods. Fruit, vegetables, meat, fish... Fortunately, real food is trending .
The planet will thank you, and my health (and yours, if you sign up) too.
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2. Not without my tupperware
Another thing I've done is avoid bottled drinks (I take my water bottle with me) and plastic bags at the grocery store. I also reject what comes in Styrofoam trays and overpackaging fresh products, such as peeled fruit packed in plastic.
To go further, take your own bags for fruit and tuppers for sausages or meat.
If the supermarket doesn't accept it, file a complaint. It is a matter of time and that users continue to insist.
3. Better, in bulk
Going to the local market is always a good option to buy local and good quality products.
For rice, cereals, legumes, pasta, flour, spices and a lot of other things, try the stores that sell in bulk. There are more and more options in all cities.
In Madrid I have @casaruizgranel on my list. And in Barcelona you can try @gransdelaterra. Both have an online store, so it's even easier.
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4. Cosmetics without packaging
I have already signed up for the conditioner and the solid shampoo of the brand @lush. And I've gone back to bar soap so I don't buy plastic bottles.
It is not possible to avoid packaging in all cosmetics, but the trend is going in that direction and we will surely see more advances and new possibilities soon. At least I hope so!
5. And the clothes? Can it also be Zero Waste ?
Of course. Everything is a matter of locating the most respectful brands with the environment and that, in addition, support the Zero Waste philosophy.
Because the textile industry can also be Zero Waste . And how is that? Well, the same as in other fields: trying to reduce or eliminate waste.
You have to know that every time fabrics are cut to make clothes, many offcuts are wasted.
It may not seem like much, but we are talking about a global, gigantic industry. And many large textile factories are in countries where regulations are more than dubious.
Although the waste that is generated can be recycled, unfortunately it is not always done and tons of fabric ends up in the trash.
The Zero Waste philosophy can be a solution: what if, simply, such an amount of waste was not generated? The problem would be tackled from the root.
There are companies that have opted for that. They create their patterns in such a way that, after cutting, waste is minimal.
For example, the Argentine @chain_sustainable by designer Lucía Chain: only uses Zero Waste patterns , organic dyes and biodegradable fabrics.
And what about the Zero Waste e sneakers from @pangaia, made with vegetable leather based on waste from the wine industry? Yeah! Stems, seeds and grape skins in your sneakers .
I have started making these changes in my habits. I hope they have inspired you and that you join this Zero Waste philosophy to gradually reduce waste.
Do you want to tell me any more ideas? Anything that supports the change is very welcome!