Easy Zero-Waste Switches (Week 1)

Let’s switch it up!

Part 1 of 4

Usually we start the year with a hard-core zero-waste challenge to get the year going. But this year feels different. We're all a bit worn down from all that was 2020 (wow, what a year!), and feel a nurturing approach to our wonderful intentions is the way to go.

So for the month of January, we're going to offer a weekly list of what we have discovered are some easy switches towards zero-waste. You can save this list for later, try one, or try them all! Here is our first week's list:

🌿 Use the 5 R's: Refuse, Reduce, Re-use, Recycle, Rot: Many people know "reduce, re-use, and recycle". We feel "refuse" and "rot" are super important. The first step towards eliminating waste is to "refuse". Only take what you need and say no to the rest. "Rot" is another important step, as composting keeps so much out of the landfills, which will greatly reduce methane emissions. And it creates beautiful soil!

🌿 Bring reusable coffee mugs: Some places, like Local Refillery, are now taking reusable mugs again. Give it a go! Disposable to-go cups are usually non-recyclable, so it's an important - and easy - switch!

🌿 Switch to bamboo toothbrushes: It takes about 1000 years for a single toothbrush to decompose, and Canada throws out around 111 million toothbrushes per year. That's a lot of plastic that's not going anywhere! Bamboo toothbrushes are compostable, and some even have compostable bristles. An easy on the earth, easy on your wallet switch to make!

🌿 Use refillable laundry/dish soap: Canada produces about 4.6 million metric tonnes of plastic each year, with only about 9% being recycled. One of the easiest ways to help reduce this is by refilling your laundry and dish soap. It's so easy. Just bring in your old container (clean & empty), and fill 'er up!

🌿 Buy bulk dried goods, such as rice and beans: Beans are in aluminum cans, which are recyclable, but rice often comes in some nasty packaging. Why not forget the extra waste and make the switch to dried? They're easy to store and easy to prepare!

🌿 Opt out of junk mail: We often think of junk mail as just an inconvenience. We see it, and dump it straight into recycling. But not only does it create more recycling to be dealt with, in order to produce junk mail in Canada, millions of oxygen-producing, carbon-absorbing trees each year are cut down. The simple solution? Put a note on your mailbox stating that you do not wish to receive Canada Post Neighbourhood Mail™.

🌿 Shop local: This one is more important now than ever. Not only are you supporting local farmers and families, which in turn supports your community, you are also contributing to the reduction of urban sprawl, habitat loss, and pollution. (Especially if you feel like walking or taking your bike!)

So there are our tips for the week! Remember to be kind and gentle with yourself. Take what works for you now, and leave the rest for later. Feel good about any changes you make, no matter how small. 😊