No waste – Beyond selective waste collection

ZERO WASTE – BEYOND SELECTIVE WASTE COLLECTION

In the 21st century, environmental awareness often boils down to selective waste collection in households. Don’t get me wrong, this is not to be underestimated; however, just as maintaining good health requires a lifestyle change, so does environmental consciousness. For our health, we make conscious decisions, exercise, and eat healthily, and in the same way, together, we can bring change to the environment through a series of mindful choices. This is the goal of the No Waste movement, also known as Zero Waste.

Zero Waste vs. Selective Waste Collection

Zero Waste

Selective Waste Collection

What is the No Waste or Zero Waste Movement?

The essence of the No Waste or “Zero Waste” movement is about following a waste-free lifestyle. The pioneer of this way of living is none other than French-born Bea Johnson, who has practiced and embraced this philosophy since 2008. She captured her experiences in her book Zero Waste Home, offering practical tips for living a waste-free life.

Main Mission of the Zero Waste Movement

To align ourselves with this effort, it’s essential to understand its goals. One of the key principles is conscious product purchasing, focusing on buying packaging-free products. These are items that come without unnecessary, non-biodegradable, or non-recyclable packaging. The mission is to minimize the amount of waste produced in our daily lives as much as possible. Importantly, the emphasis is on minimization, as achieving a completely waste-free state is unrealistic. Setting attainable expectations is crucial; it’s about transforming our habits and routines, gradually normalizing the generation of less waste.

The Zero Waste movement represents a third-generation waste management concept, providing a long-term solution for sustainability and reusability. This approach aims to create a world where waste management isn’t centered on recycling but on the conscious and eco-friendly design of products and packaging.

Here are three ways to support this mission:

1.

Shop at packaging-free stores whenever possible. If that's not feasible, prioritize brands that use compostable or biodegradable materials. Take the time to research which brands are eco-friendly!

2.

Along with plastics, chemical pollution is increasingly problematic. Aim to buy chemical-free products, reducing water pollution and environmental damage.

3.

Change your shopping habits! Be mindful, make lists, and practice self-control. Studies show that an average household uses only 20-30% of purchased items.

Practical Tips from Bea Johnson

If you’re inspired by the Zero Waste movement, you might be wondering how to start living by its principles. Bea Johnson, a pioneer in this movement, has outlined five key pillars to help guide the process.

Refuse

Reject anything you don’t truly need! For example, say no to plastic bags at the store, avoid pre-packaged products, and decline straws in your drinks. Bring your own reusable bags for shopping, and remember, you can enjoy a lemonade just as well without a straw. These small changes make a big difference.

Reduce

Take a look at what you own, and part with items you don’t need—but don’t just throw them away. Instead, gift them to someone who could use them. Mindful consumption is key: consider your purchases carefully and avoid accumulating unnecessary items that you’ll need to declutter later.

Reuse

Reusing what you already have can be as simple as giving your existing items new purposes. If something comes in a box, find another way to use it for storage. When you buy beverages in glass bottles, clean and repurpose them instead of throwing them away. Bring a canvas bag or woven basket for shopping, which is not only practical but also adds a touch of charm.

Recycle

If you do need to discard something, make sure to dispose of it correctly by recycling it. Research where you can recycle specific materials in your local area to ensure proper waste disposal.

Compost

Throughout our lives, we produce an enormous amount of organic waste. Think about all the vegetable peels from cooking. Instead of tossing them in the trash, start a compost pile, drastically reducing the waste you generate.

Haircare in the Zero Waste Movement

In the beauty industry, cutting down on plastic can feel difficult, as many products are packaged in plastic. However, with a bit of research, you can find brands that are leading the way with eco-friendly packaging options.

Oxygeni Hair is dedicated to this mission, using 100% biodegradable (compostable) plastic for their packaging. This shows that professional products can still be kind to the environment.

What Does This Mean?

One of the most significant environmental challenges is plastic bottles, which take a long time to decompose. However, scientists have developed an additive that accelerates this process. This polymer additive enhances the biodegradability of plastic at the end of its life without compromising its strength or recyclability. The result? Green plastic products.

By using brands like Oxygeni Hair, you’re not only treating your hair with natural, high-quality ingredients but also protecting the environment. Let’s lead the way together—visit the Oxygeni Hair shop to see it for yourself.