From a world-wide perspective, solving the waste problem may seem insurmountable—but a little bit goes a long way. While it’s not realistic to start a zero-waste lifestyle overnight, these eight easy ways to reduce waste at home can help get the ball rolling.
Donate
Donating unwanted items to charity should always be your go-to option. It’s only natural for people to evolve and want to get rid of things. Donating will give your items a chance to live on, but—more importantly—it helps those in need and benefits the environment.
Take Up Recycling
One of the easiest ways to help save the environment is through recycling. In doing so you reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, conserve natural resources, prevent pollution and save energy.
Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk mitigates the amount of packaging that ends up in landfills. Another advantage is many natural and organic products can be bought in bulk; another bonus prize for helping the environment.
Practice FIFO
First in, first out (FIFO) is a common restaurant practice, but you can apply it your home with little effort. When you unpack groceries, take the older foods in the fridge and move them to the front. This helps prevent clutter and will encourage you to use products before they expire.
Buy the Funny Looking Produce
Many fruits and vegetables are thrown away due to their odd shape, size, or color. Don’t shy away from these odd-looking choices—buy them instead to reduce unnecessary waste.
Go Digital
This is one of the easiest ways to reduce waste at home—and it saves trees! Take advantage of digital billing statements and airline tickets, and don’t forget to unsubscribe from junk mail.
Utilize Reusable Bottles & Mugs
Plastic water bottles, paper coffee cups, and a variety of other disposable beverage containers are a huge waste of material. Buy a reusable water bottle and durable coffee thermos, and easily re-fill them while on-the-go. You could even take it one step further with a countertop water cooler. This product is great for home or office use and guarantees you’ll have clean drinking water.
Create Your Own Cleaning Products
Homemade cleaning products are safer for the environment, and because you control the ingredients, they’re safer for you as well. They also won’t threaten the planet with harmful chemicals that lead to poor air quality.
Become a part of the solution: embrace these easy ways to reduce waste today to make a big difference tomorrow.
