Easy first steps…

Throughout my Zero Journey I have felt overwhelmed and frustrated, whether it was the amount of plastic at stores, the unnecessary stickers or double/triple wrapping, the ignorance of others to the amount of waste they’re creating, or the lack of access to zero-waste items.  The best way I could combat my frustrations was taking it one small step at a time.  I also (still) remind myself that this is my choice and I cannot change the minds of others – I can only inspire :).

Small changes
Small changes
These are some of my (favourite) first steps to zero-waste living:

  • handkerchiefs – replaces tissues
  • homemade lip balm – replaces tubed lip balm, easy to make
  • baking soda – replaces many cleaning products (Pinterest it!)
  • wool dryer balls – replaces toxic dryer sheets, compostable
  • travel mug – replaces plastic coffee cups and lids
  • reusable water bottle – replaces plastic bottles
  • hand towels/rags – replaces paper towel
  • jars – various sizes for bulk, food storage, drinks
  • soap – various types for body, face, and hair

Sometimes it can feel overwhelming, or you may not even know where to start; maybe you’re even intimidated by these changes.  You don’t need to change everything all at once.  Do one small thing at a time or set a small goal; maybe you put your travel mug in your car so that when you have a java urge, it’s right there for you!

The best part… you’re not alone!  We all started from Step 1, and this is a pretty welcoming community who want everyone to succeed 🙂

14 comments

  1. This is awesome!
    I had a question (going back to the lip balm), I found a recipe for homemade lipstick and it’s just coconut oil and non toxic crayons that you melt.
    Are there any extremely negative environmental effects to using crayons?

    Like

    • I haven’t really looked into it, but it would be worth it. I want to say I don’t think so, but I have no evidence to back it up :). I’ve been wanting to try some lip stick or stain to avoid the packaging for them.

      Like

  2. […] I did not jump straight into homemade deodorant and DIY sour cream.  I started simple with a COMPOST BIN (how predictable), which already eliminated a significant amount from my garbage bin.  Throughout two years I have changed more and more habits to achieve zero waste, and I am still not at 100%, hence the journey in my blog’s title.  Do not be too hard on yourself.  It is a huge achievement just to start one thing, whether that is using cloth bags, avoiding plastic packaging, using cloth napkins, or making it a habit to take your travel mug and water bottle wherever you go.  Not sure where to start?  See my post on Easy First Steps. […]

    Like

Leave a comment