I’ve recently gotten inspired to make some sustainable changes in my lifestyle. If you’ve been wanting ways to reduce your personal waste and be kinder to the planet, here are five easy zero waste swaps you can incorporate into your life once you run out of whatever you’re using now. But keep in mind, you do not have to be a perfect zero wast-er! It’s impossible to find perfectly sustainable products. Doing your best is good enough.
1. Cotton Pads
Last summer I realized I was using an abnormal amount of cotton pads. Whether it’s for makeup remover, nail polish remover, or cleaning my face, I was going through a 100 pack every month. That’s when I started searching for the perfect reusable cotton rounds. Most of these are easy to use, and when you’ve used a bunch, you place them in a little mesh bag and throw them in the laundry! Super convenient for a college student who doesn’t want to manually rinse all of them. You can find some cute ones here, or if you’re from Burlington, Golden Hour Gift Co. sells them also!
2. Utensils
Utensils were the first thing I switched a couple years ago when I was getting more interested in the low waste movement, and this is because it’s super easy! Instead of getting plastic utensils whenever you get take out food or food on campus, carry around a set of bamboo or reusable utensils. If you’re a student, slip them into your backpack so you’ll have them whenever need be. Even better, lots of the kits come with silverware, straws, and chopsticks! You can find the ones I have here.
3. Lip Balm
Zero waste lip balm has been something I’ve been interested in for a while. Although I will admit, it’s been a bit hard for me to consider giving up my beloved Glossier lip balm. But if you’re about to run out of your favorite lip balm, and want to switch it up, here are some recommendations. A lot of the ones I’ve found on Etsy are handmade, compostable, essential oil infused, and seem very durable! Check out this lavender one, vanilla one, or an unscented one if that’s what you’re looking for.
4. Plastic Bags
Plastic bags are used so universally for many different functions that it’s hard to see how often we’re really using them. Buying groceries, packing snacks for school, lining your trash cans, etc. However, it’s also the item that has gained the most attention for states to make changes to their plastic bag policy, mostly in grocery stores. But if you don’t live in one of those states, or if you’re looking for some additional smaller changes, here’s a few to consider! When buying produce, try to avoid the plastic bags they supply. Instead, invest in a mesh bag like this. If you pack a lot of food in Ziploc bags, check out Stasher’s reusable bags. And of course, bring your own reusable bag when grocery shopping!
5. Shampoo and Conditioner
Lastly, I’ll end with the swap that I’m looking forward to making in the future. I’m definitely a bit challenged by this one because I have a hair texture that only thrives under certain hair products that I’ve used. But, hopefully I can do my research and find one that fits when the time comes. Zero waste shampoo and conditioner will come in bar form, sort of like a bar of soap, but it’s used for your hair—obviously. This way, you don’t have to routinely buy new plastic bottles every time you run out. I’ve heard good things about EcoRoots bars, or you can check out these. Keep in mind, transitioning to these could take a moment, as your hair won’t be used to a chemical-free product. Happy washing!
** Edited by Phoebe Cousens