So we are far from Zero Wasters, too many animals and country living projects. However, we do live in the country and our once a week garbage service will only pick up a tiny can. The nearest transfer station to bring our trash to is an hour away. On top of that, we do love the environment so we really do want to reduce the amount of waste that goes out of our house. Here are some of my top tips for reducing the waste/trash in your home!
What Can Be Recycled
A lot of people don’t know that you can recycle more than just bottles and cans. You can recycle all sorts of plastics and metals. Although you won’t get cashback for all of them, they can be recycled, sometimes even through your current local garbage company. If you live in California like I do, check out the CalRecycle website for more information on what and where to recycle. If you don’t look live in California, just do a google search on “what can be recycled” for local options or contact your local garbage disposal company for more information.
Get Inspired
There are numerous bloggers and Instagram accounts that share their Zero Waste lifestyle online. I’ve learned so many new tips and tricks on reducing my waste just from following them and checking in once and a while. Here are some of my favorites.
Stop Using Plastic Grocery Bags
This may seem like an obvious one, but it’s also so easy to do. In California, many cities have outlawed bags or charge for plastic bags at the checkout to force you to bring your own. However, even if they haven’t, it’s so easy to get about 10 re-useable bags to keep with you in the car whenever you shop. No bags to throw away and no bag charge! You can make your own grocery bags or if you’re not too crafty, just by a nice set off Amazon. Here are a few of my faves this year:
Use a Re-Useable Portable Water Bottle
Use a glass mason jar with a lid or stainless steel bottle for carrying your water and drinks in the car. It’s better for the environment and doesn’t leach toxins into your drinks. I personally prefer a glass mason jar, but stainless steel is perfectly fine and won’t break. Plus you only need one for each person in the household, if they refill it all day, fewer dishes for you to wash!
Re-Use Glass Jars, Tin Cans, and Other Containers
I have a garden for growing vegetables for the family as well as growing seedlings to sell. I cover tow bases by re-using tin cans, glass jars, and plastic food containers to plant seedlings in. The containers don’t make it to the trash or recycling cans and I don’t have to buy plastic seedling containers.
Carry a Food Container with You
When I got to a restaurant I NEVER finish my whole meal. I always want to bring food home with me. A great tip for reducing take out plastic is to just bring your own re-usable containers for leftovers. Tin bento boxes, Tupperware you already have or a lunch box