Jenn Mikitka

When you start your journey of transitioning to a zero waste lifestyle, you may feel tempted to buy all of the fun zero waste alternatives. Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Repurpose, and if all else fails, Recycle While it’s better than trash, recycling should not be the goal when going zero waste. If you must buy items, try to avoid single-use items or anything with plastic packaging. Once you have used up the single-use items in your home, you can start purchasing reusable or eco-friendly replacements.

If you are recycling items and not throwing them away, is that zero waste? Instead of single-use or short-term items, those of us living zero waste lifestyles opt for items that can be continuously reused. While composting is the best alternative to food waste, and something many zero waste individuals use, there are some other ways you can reduce your food waste. To get started on your zero waste journey, check out month one in our guide to going zero waste.

While there are so many different things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint, reduce your waste, and be a better consumer, it’s always best to start small. If you’re ready to go fully zero waste, check out month one of our monthly guide to going zero waste. A super-easy way to reduce energy usage in your home is to switch your old incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs. Look for companies who avoid fast fashion, sell second-hand, use sustainable materials, use recycled materials, pay ethical wages, avoid palm oil, etc.

You’re on your second month in your journey to going zero waste. Either way, this month is going to be a great step in the right direction for your zero waste journey. You’re left with a highly nutritious broth and you’ve taken full advantage of your food scraps. Either reuse the plastic produce bags from your last trip, purchase reusable produce bags, create your own DIY produce bags, or simply put the food in your cart without one.