A Zero Waste Journey

For over five years, I have been living a zero waste lifestyle and it has been an eye-opening journey. Before I discovered zero waste, I thought I was being a conscious consumer by buying organic, non-GMO foods, recycling, and using low-emissions vehicles. However, I soon realized that I was still creating a significant amount of waste, much of it being plastic that ends up in landfills, oceans and back into the food chain.

Zero waste is a growing movement that encourages people to be mindful of not only what they are consuming but also its packaging. The zero waste lifestyle is based on five principles called the 5Rs: refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle, and rot (or compost). These principles help us to reconsider our consuming habits and the waste they leave behind.

I started implementing these principles in my life and I noticed a significant change. We started swapping single-use containers for reusable ones such as coffee cups, water bottles, metal straws, and stainless steel to-go containers. We also shifted to bulk buying and started cooking more from scratch. We stopped buying milk in plastic containers and started making our own oat milk. We also tackled our food waste and started composting. Our trash became cleaner and drier with no wet organic matter.

Additionally, I started making my own cleaning and personal care products using natural ingredients. I also learned about home herbalism and how to incorporate plants into my recipes to further benefit each product. This led me to start growing my own herbs and plants, which further connected me to nature.

Living a zero waste lifestyle has been a gradual process, but the changes have been profound. It has not only helped to reduce our environmental impact, but it has also brought a sense of joy and connection to nature. It's a way of life that serves both my lifestyle and the planet.