KICK START 2019 WITH A ZERO WASTE RESOLUTION
Overview
2019 is nearly upon us and it’s a time to think about what lies ahead in our lives. The start of the new year brings with it a promise of hope, happiness and a chance for everyone to start afresh. Resolutions can be tricky as not a lot of us are able to stick to our resolutions. Whether you’re a fan of resolutions or not, you can’t deny that there’s something undeniably magical about transitioning into a new year. But what if the resolution had a cause – something which you can stand behind. Something which can make a difference to the planet – wouldn’t that bring cheer to your lives while helping ease your conscience as well? This New Year, how about you kick start it with a Zero Waste Resolution.
If you have been meaning to join in the Zero Waste revolution but didn’t know where or when to begin, there’s no better time than now to join the bandwagon. The onset of a New Year presents new ways to get involved in the zero waste movement. So without further ado, we have outlined a few simple Zero Waste New Year resolutions that you should definitely try to keep and not break in 2019
1. Ditch the plastic bags
By now, we are pretty sure that you must be aware of the perils of plastic waste and the hazard it poses not only to us but the entire living eco-system. Not only do they clog our drains but they also wreak havoc in the lives of all animals, fishes, and birds included. Moreover, they do not decompose which makes it doubly hard to get rid of them as well. Next time you head to the supermarket, insist on carrying your own reusable bags as it helps save plastic bags from ending up in landfills or worse still, our oceans.
2. Say No to disposable paper towels
While you might be wondering what harm could paper towels possibly cause the environment considering they are biodegradable, the truth of the matter is that paper is made out of trees. What this means is that every single sheet of paper you use is responsible for a tree getting chopped down somewhere across the world. Then there’s the small matter of the fossil fuels that are consumed while producing and transporting which doesn’t really make them environment-friendly. Instead, substitute them with cloth napkins or better still – make your napkins using old rags. These cloth napkin scan be reused over and over again and only require to be washed after us
3 .Refrain from shopping online
This is something most of us are guilty of – while browsing through our mobile phones, invariably a banner pop’s up reminding us of an ongoing sale. Fast forward and we end up buying stuff which we don’t really need. What you need to keep in mind that every product you purchase requires valuable energy and resources to produce. You can try imposing a self-inflicted shopping ban which can help curtail unnecessary purchases
4. Embrace Sustainable Products
Right from the humble toothbrush to bathing scrubs and even straws – Say YES to sustainable living. Most of these products are usually made from polypropylene plastic and nylon which just adds to the carbon footprint. Sustainable products, on the other hand, are made from all natural materials which are bio-degradable and areinfinitely better for our planet. For instance, you can start off by using a disposable plastic toothbrush made out of bamboo to get started. Considering most of us replace our toothbrushes every two to three months, making the switch to a bamboo toothbrush can really make a telling difference.
5. Adopt reusable water bottles/cups
Always carry your own water bottle such as one made out stainless steel for example. You can help avoid adding to the grave problem that plastic bottles cause by adopting a simpler and practical alternative instead. Also while you’re at it, buy your own coffee mug made out stainless steel.Not only do they not break, but they also keep your drink warmer for a longer time. Win-Win!
6. Simplify Cleaning and Bathing Supplies
Opt for natural alternatives such as white vinegar and baking soda as opposed to harsh and harmful chemical cleaners. These harmful agents go straight down the drain and end up in our oceans causing irrevocable damage to our marine life. Moreover, they contain artificial colorants and chemicals which can irritate skin, eyes and cause allergic reactions.
In addition, make organic soap bars your best friend. Being all-natural, they tend to be made up of as few ingredients as possible. These soaps contain a mix of plant-based oils and natural clay and prove to be an excellent way to moisturize and clean your skin without having to worry about any nasty chemicals or unpleasant reactions.
The Bottom Line
Although it might sound daunting at first, the reality is that adopting a zero-waste lifestyle isn’t challenging at all. Like all good things in life, you will need to start slow and eventually you will find that living with zero waste comes naturally to you. The best part is that you’ll absolutely love the mental and physical health benefits that they bestow upon you. Make 2019 the year of Zero Waste and enjoy living guilt-free!
Great Article. Keep up the good work.
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new project in a community in the same niche.
Your blog provided us beneficial information to work on. You have done a extraordinary job!
Yes. Totally true. I am on this journey since 2017 and now I am taking it to an advanced level by changing one thing everyday for the month of February. Keep sharing!!
Great, I really like it! Youre awesome