Last week, I received a note from someone who labelled our lifestyle "unrealistic". Hmmm. If we are living it, doesn't it make this lifestyle realistic?
I think that comments like this, are simply generated by action paralysis that people suffer when faced with the brutal reality of our current "state of affairs".
Isn't it rather unrealistic to think that we can keep living wasteful lives?
Or maybe negative thinkers simply don't know how to get started. I hear many excuses as to why Zero Waste seems un-achievable: "I don't have bulk in my town", "I am too busy" (which really means: "I can't be bothered"), "It's too expensive" and "It's too extreme for me"... OK, I agree with the last bit. The "Zero" part of this concept sounds extreme and scary. If five years ago, I had read about a Zero Waste family, I would have probably thought: "These people are nuts, seems like a great idea, but too far out of my zone."
But is Zero Waste really achieving NO trash all? Not in my book. Zero Waste is an ATTEMPT to get as close to it as you possibly can. I did not invent that term (nor the title of this blog), it's been used for decades (since the 60's). And it's nothing unheard of in the manufacturing industry. From Automotive to Fashion, countless companies are aiming towards this goal.
Undeniably, until it becomes common practice, even our household will generate more than Zero trash.
Don't let action paralysis take over your household, waste reducing is not about dwelling on the current state of affairs, but rather finding joy and energy in our future's potential. Remembering where I was five years ago, accepting that I am not perfect and knowing that I try my best, keeps me from dwelling on the negative and helps me deal with the site of unnecessary disposable bags and cups still being dispensed at the store... Believe in the power of your smallest actions inspiring others. Living by example is the cure to sadness.
So how do you get started on your journey towards Zero Waste?
I think that comments like this, are simply generated by action paralysis that people suffer when faced with the brutal reality of our current "state of affairs".
Isn't it rather unrealistic to think that we can keep living wasteful lives?
Or maybe negative thinkers simply don't know how to get started. I hear many excuses as to why Zero Waste seems un-achievable: "I don't have bulk in my town", "I am too busy" (which really means: "I can't be bothered"), "It's too expensive" and "It's too extreme for me"... OK, I agree with the last bit. The "Zero" part of this concept sounds extreme and scary. If five years ago, I had read about a Zero Waste family, I would have probably thought: "These people are nuts, seems like a great idea, but too far out of my zone."
But is Zero Waste really achieving NO trash all? Not in my book. Zero Waste is an ATTEMPT to get as close to it as you possibly can. I did not invent that term (nor the title of this blog), it's been used for decades (since the 60's). And it's nothing unheard of in the manufacturing industry. From Automotive to Fashion, countless companies are aiming towards this goal.
Undeniably, until it becomes common practice, even our household will generate more than Zero trash.
Don't let action paralysis take over your household, waste reducing is not about dwelling on the current state of affairs, but rather finding joy and energy in our future's potential. Remembering where I was five years ago, accepting that I am not perfect and knowing that I try my best, keeps me from dwelling on the negative and helps me deal with the site of unnecessary disposable bags and cups still being dispensed at the store... Believe in the power of your smallest actions inspiring others. Living by example is the cure to sadness.
So how do you get started on your journey towards Zero Waste?
- Get past the pre-conceptions: Read the article Zero Waste Lifestyle: Time and Money Consuming? If my household was able to work on it for the past two years, with both Scott and I involved in start-up businesses (and with very little money coming in), I believe anyone can get started. Don't have much time in your hands? Take it one room at time, one day/week/month at a time. Actively working on it, at your own pace, is what really matters. Any small change makes a big difference.
- Get past the obvious road blocks: You do not have bulk in your town? Ask for it and start by tackling your everyday disposables. Coffee cups, grocery bags, produce bags, paper towels, trash bags, plastic baggies, single use plates and flatware, water bottles are all easily avoided with little getting used to and their use often replaced by items you already have, no matter where you live.
- Don't get overwhelmed by the changes that you need to adopt, but rather embrace the excitement of trying out alternatives. Who knows what you might discover. It will be different for everyone. For my part, I never expected to eat healthier, save money, have more time for my family and volunteering, find more meaning in religious faith, increase my tolerance for others, learn how to forage, experiment with a multitude of crafts (paper, soap, candles, etc...), make due with the available bulk at my local grocery store, discover a fantastic and supportive community through this blog... and simplify my life! Not this bullet point though;)
- Don't let others put you down and tell you that what you do, does not matter. You know that it does, and deep down, so do they. Just be prepared for criticism and irony. Some say our household doesn't do enough (because we are carnivores, travel to France, do not have a veggie garden, or buy toothbrushes from Australia...), others say we do too much (they call our lifestyle un-realistic, extreme or obsessive...). What I say is, we must be doing something right then ;)
- Zero Waste is like exercising, take it easy on yourself, you'll be more likely to stick with it. If you can find yogurt in a reusable/returnable container then why make it? I tried moss for TP, but finding TP rolls wrapped in paper worked out better. I washed my hair with baking soda and vinegar, but the frizz and smell of vinaigrette were not worth it to me - when solid shampoos and bulk options are available.
- When in doubt, always practice the obvious: REFUSE - REDUCE - REUSE - RECYCLE - ROT (next article's subject) and in order!
And most importantly, find comfort in knowing that you are not alone. Please share with us your joys and troubles...
Gah! If I'm tired of reading criticism of you, I can only imagine how YOU are feeling! The only "unrealistic" thing about your lifestyle is that it doesn't happen overnight, but this is a point that you've made several times in different blog entries. Thank you for sharing your experiences, you are truly an inspiration.
ReplyDeleteSince discovering your blog a couple of weeks ago, I have switched to baking powder toothpaste and a deodorant stone, sewed cloth napkins and produce bags, replaced paper towels with microfiber cloths, gone paperless with the last of my paper bills, & canceled a slew of catalogs. My earth-friendly habits were somewhat decent before I discovered your blog; for years I've been composting, using reusable grocery bags, drinking tap water from a reusable bottle, using flannel/ washable menstrual pads, etc. I was thinking things were fine because our recycling container was always more full than our trash container; what an a-ha! moment to read your blog and realize how much more I can be doing. Now I am sure our trash AND recycling bins will be more empty as time goes on.
Sorry for the length of this comment, but just one more thing: I'm in my 40's and have been a die-hard antiperspirant/deodorant consumer for 30 years, believing that deodorant stones would keep me neither dry nor odor-free. I bought a stone from the link you posted in your Zero Waste Bathroom article, promising myself that if it failed on either the dryness or odor-free front, I'd go back to my name-brand stick of chemicals. What a wonderful surprise that the deodorant stone is a smashing success! It actually works better than store-brand nonsense.
So again, thank you, and sorry this is so long!
Bea, this is not really on-topic, but I just had to share – I found a new health food shop in the next suburb over to mine that sells food in bulk bins!!! I went there today and bought a whole bunch of beans (chickpeas, lentils, white beans) without packaging, and I'm in seventh heaven! :D
ReplyDeleteBea - I am so inspired by your blog!!!!
ReplyDeleteCould you please do a bit more on your wardrobe??
I counted my tops today - I own 23 - my goal is to get down to the magic 7.
Could you do an article on "essentials" and colours - and what are your basics etc
That would be awesome!!!!
thanks for your blog
Thanks for the inspiration!! All the time I now think about REFUSE and am teaching my 4 year old about the term1
ReplyDeleteBea - you and your family are an inspiration. I read the Sunset article, and subsequently read all of your blog articles, and have slowly incorporated some of your suggestions.....I LOVE it.
ReplyDeleteWe gave gift cards for the holiday WITHOUT the 6 wrappings the stores offer....I wrapped mine in the Japanese furioki (spelling?) clothe. Our family loved the idea.
My 90 year old mother is even getting into the habit.
Thank you so much for opening our eyes.
I've had a similar experience as Bobbi after reading the sunset article. I've replaced paper towels and plastic food storage for cloth and glass, which I already owned, and sewed cloth grocery bags which cost about $5 for 6 bags and took little time.
ReplyDeleteBut what I like best is the reclaiming of time that was once spent managing the waste that comes into my home. Thank you for taking time to share your experiences.
I thought the article about you in Sunset was so inspiring. I keep thinking about it and about ways that I can consume less, reuse things and throw less away. It's turned into a fun challenge and it's relaxing as I think about shopping less and less. Anyway, thanks!
ReplyDeleteRose
Very well said Bea! And keep sharing with us. We really need people like you. You are an inspiration, and we all need to be inspired- and reminded once in a while. It's too easy to get comfortable in the little bubble of privilege in which we live. Thank you Christine
ReplyDeleteI found you through the Sunset article, wow! What an inspiration! It is funny how many excuses have run through my head, a recent one was that I don't have money to buy a bunch of jars. I decided to start with some de-cluttering instead, and I found a bunch of jars in a neglected corner of my pantry that were storing dusty, stale dry goods from years ago. I put the old food in my compost bin, washed the jars, problem solved! Another small step in the right direction. But oh boy, trying to reduce waste is making me realize how much I have been wasting. Time to change habits. Thanks for your example and ideas.
ReplyDeleteHi Bea,
ReplyDeleteFirst off, thank you so much for putting your experiences out there. Since reading your blog over the Holidays I've been implementing your recommendations slowly but steadily.
I'd be interested to know your opinion regarding the advent of supposedly "biodegradable" plastic packaging. I'm seeing it more and more these days. For example, today I went to buy toilet paper, and did a price comparison against the cardboard and paper packaged Ever-Green brand you posted (came out to almost $24 after the shipping) and a 12 pack at Trader Joes (wrapped in "friendly" plastic but priced at $4.34).
The Trader Joes supposedly eco-friendly bio-degradable plastic packaging is made by Epi, and as the label says ..."it goes away in 18 months." I don't buy it. Things don't just go away - if anything I feel like plastic would just photo-polymerize to smaller and more dangerous particles.
Sorry for the long-windedness, I can't quite wrap my head around this one, would like to know if you have any thoughts.
Thank you for everything!
Hello, I'm new to your blog but find it interesting how people react so differently to your lifestyle. I find it VERY inspiring and I have taken it on as a creative challenge to try to reduce my waste. I think others enjoy modern day conveniences too much and take it as a personal attach on their own lifestyle. I feel your way of life makes others feel somewhat guilty about about their own, and that results in different reactions. People either jump on board with the cause or they reject it altogether. You are making a difference by setting an example for people that find this cause important but don't really know where to start. Thank you and keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for writing this blog and sharing your story. Before reading this blog, and like other commenters, I thought I had been doing a pretty good job, but the focus on "Refuse" has been eye-opening to me. I am so inspired to do so much more to lessen my impact on the earth and those around me.
ReplyDeleteTwo questions: Are there any books that you recommend regarding zero-waste lifestyles? What do you do to minimize sewer waste? I hadn't even thought about it until I was telling a friend about your blog and that was her first question.
Thanks again for the inspiration! I've been telling so many people about this blog. We, as a society, have gotten so caught up in our disposable world and I hope we can all trend back to how our grandparents lived when reusing and reducing were the norm.
Hi Bea,
ReplyDeleteSince I found your blog, I've sewn bulk my own item bags & started using my stainless steel coffee mug again. It is true that shopping in bulk actually is cheaper (in most cases). I also re-learned how to use my sewing machine & got several compliments on my bags since I've been using them.
Thanks for the inspiration.
This morning I called several of my local stores with bulk bins and asked if I could use my own containers, but was told that it is not allowed by the health department. I find that very unfortunate :(
ReplyDeleteAny tips?
First heard about you and this blog in the Sunset article then heard you on public radio. I find what you are doing really exciting and inspiring. Although we have been trying to practice the 4 R's adding that 5th has sparked a bit of a revolution in my household. Last night our trip to the grocery store cost us about 25 dollars less and only took about 40 minutes at a leisurely pace. And it was fun.
ReplyDeleteI think Bobbi makes a good point about trying something out, figuring that if it doesn't work you can always go back to the old way. In the past, I have been afraid to try new things because some small part of my mind figured that once I started, I could never go back again. But the idea that you have the choice to keep going or return is a good idea, because it makes the first step less intimidating. And, like Bobbi said about the deodorant, you may be surprised at how much you like the new thing you're doing.
ReplyDeleteI am excited myself because I have finally convinced my husband that composting is a good solution to our food waste problem, even as apartment dwellers. I did a lot of research and ordered a Naturemill composter, which was the compromise (I wanted to worm compost, my husband vociferously disagreed). The idea that I can actually put all of my food waste to good use (this particular composter uses both veggie and meat waste) is really making me happy. And as for the compost, there are plenty of community gardens that I could give the stuff to or heck, I could just go around and sprinkle it on the tree pits in my neighborhood, which could really use some attention.
Hi Bea, long time reader here, first time poster. you are truly inspiring. Using your suggestions I've cleaned closets, drawers, etc. and am now buying in bulk. A lot of what you suggest I have been doing for sometime, but have been concious of the creep of stuff into the home. It feels so freeing to clear it out and refocus our energies. Keep up the good fight and know there are lots of us out here pulling for you.
ReplyDeleteHow do you prevent your vegetables and fruits from wilting or drying out? I like using my produce bags to bring home my produce, but I don't want them to be un-usable once I store it for at least a day. Some of them are bags with a drawstring; others are netted bags (i.e. they have holes).
ReplyDeleteKeep up the great work Bea! You are winning. I have been reading your blog for some time and setting into place some of what you do. Baby steps, I say. However, as I have continued to talk about it, my husband was the naysayer. He always used bottled water and kept refusing the idea of a stainless water bottle. I finally just said no more bottled water until you try a stainless. He LOVES it! He now likes the idea of no paper towels, etc. If you can help change his mind, you can change just about anyones!
ReplyDeleteBea, You and your family are my heros. Your efforts cast a bright light on our collective willful ignorance. Thanks for sharing your story.
ReplyDeleteHi Bea - My husband and I were both thrilled to find your article in our recent Sunset Mag! After, I went onto your blog to read more and was blown away by some of the negative responses. But I guess that's what we all do when we feel confronted - we lash out. I am very happy to read this latest post. You've obviously had some experience with this... Well, I (we) want to tell you, you and your family are an inspiration to us. We are no where near your level of zero waste...yet! (always a work in progress) Everything you write makes me stand up and pay attention and has brought me to a new level of consciousness. Thank you for being willing to keep putting yourself out there, even when you may not always get positive feedback. It's making a difference to us now and will have a direct impact on our future. Keep up the good work!! Your fans, Anna and Land Wilson
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing how when you tell people that you are trying to reduce the waste your household produces, you are considered a radical! I even had one lady at work make a side comment to someone else along the lines of 'But I still want to LIVE my life". I don't understand why people think that carefully considering what you buy and bring into your house will have a negative effect on your lifestyle. I find that we eat better and are actually saving money as I don't buy things like cling film and paper towel. I figure that people weren't using these things 100 years ago and they all survived. There are so many recipes for cheap and environmentally friendly household cleaning product that you should never need to buy a toxic one again. Oh my goodness, I'm ranting now. Whoops.
ReplyDeleteI'm excited to see the growing interest in zero waste and find it encouraging that an increasing number of people are reading and commenting on this wonderful blog. The more the idea of "zero waste" enters into the mainstream consciousness, the less "nuts" it will seem, and the easier it will be for all of us to adopt this type of lifestyle and reach that ultimate goal of no trash. I definitely believe in "the power of your smallest actions inspiring others." Almost a year ago, I remember reading Bea's blog posts on grocery shopping, and marveling at the great lengths she went to to purchase unpackaged bread;) I've since begun to bring my own bags for grocery shopping, but have continued to feel somewhat self-conscious that the clerk behind the counter would refuse and declare my jars/bags a "health hazard". Well, lo and behold, this past weekend I went to purchase bread behind the counter at my local Whole Foods, and the clerk not only doesn't bat an eye at my bread bag, she offers me one of the new cloth bread bags that WF is now selling to its customers! Thanks for the inspiration, Bea, and welcome to the many others who are beginning their journey to "zero waste"!
ReplyDeleteI love your blog and appreciate for both a source of inspiration and practical learning. So from a place of admiration, not of skepticism or malice, I want to offer my two cents on eating meat. Knowing about the environmental toll that eating animal products made me eat less meat (more fish or organic, free-range products) but didn't make much of an impact. What really did make an impact was reading the science on the nutrition in The China Study. This book blew me away and I think if you read it and check out it's arguments and credibility (impeccable credentials in the scientific/academic community), you will see that eating animal products is not just bad for the environment, but bad for your health (including eggs, cheese, fish, lean meats, etc). This led me to stop eating meat a year ago, and happily embracing a vegan lifestyle that happens to get more closer to a Zero Waste lifestyle.
ReplyDeletei mad you tooth past recipe bea and.. is it suppose to taste a little salty or should i add more white stevia?
ReplyDeleteBea -
ReplyDeleteIgnore the haters and give me some more of your Zero waste tips please!
I agree with Anonymous, above: more tips please!
ReplyDeleteA question about food prep: I've never used a pressure cooker, is it a timely way to prepare dried beans? Someday I've got to break my addiction to canned beans!
I also agree with Zach, above, about a vegan lifestyle being closely aligned with a zero-waste lifestyle. Environmentally, the impact of raising animals for meat/dairy/eggs is devastating, and I concur that The China Study is compelling on the health front. If being vegan seems extreme to you, just think how many people see zero-waste as an extreme concept, but you have learned that it's not! Anyway, it doesn't feel extreme to me to be vegan, going on four years now. But I MUST end my canned bean addiction!
Thanks for all your inspiration, I have made many positive changes thanks to you and your blog. :)
You make a zero-waste lifestyle seem possible, even if I can only take baby-steps toward one of my own. Thanks for being a shining example of the possible. As for the naysayers, some consciousness-raising is in order. And your gracious comebacks will no doubt help in that.
ReplyDeleteAs with most people I have been most influenced by the idea of REFUSE first and then the traditional R's. After reading all of your posts recently I got the impression you would prefer ROT before RECYCLE yet it's still listed last in the order above. Am I mistaking your intent? (I just turned our large kitchen trash bin into a compost bin and made a small undercounter can for trash. Thanks!)
ReplyDeleteYeah, Vanessa! your comment is completely in the topic, I am so happy for you finding bulk! I completely relate with your excitement. Now and then, when I discover new bulk in a nearby town, I get an adrenaline rush;)
ReplyDeleteThank you for all your great comments and input, you are the force behind this blog and community!
ReplyDeleteSophia: I put my veggies straight into the veggie drawer (out of the mesh bags unless small and loose)and they hold up just fine.
Casey: Please refer to the posting on recycling for your question on bio-plastics. Buying is voting. Did you try contacting Natural Value to find out if they sell in your area?
Leigh: I did not invent the 4R's and they come in this order. Rot being last. It puts a lot of faith in recycling, and I certainly have faith in glass and paper recycling. That said, if I had a choice between a cardboard makeup container (compostable because dirty cardboard is not recyclable, like a pizza box) or a recyclable plastic one, I would choose the cardboard. The plastic one would support our oil dependence and eventually (even after being recycled into another item) end up in the landfill. Not everyone might agree with this, but this is my choice.
Anonymous: Pressure cookers are particularly great for beans! In the bulk aisle, Whole Foods offers a great free guide "Bulk Basics". It gives you a lot of information on how to prepare bulk items. It gives cooking instruction and time. Garbanzo beans for ex. which need to cook 2 1/2hours with boiling, will only take 30 min with a pressure cooker.
Zach and Anonymous: About meat. I have commented many times about our meat consumption. At this point, we try our best. A couple of years ago, we tried to take it out of our diet entirely, but my husband dropped to 150lbs (he is 6ft tall) and did not look healthy. I now buy deli, one meat and one fish each week. We eat the latter two on the weekends (we have become weekday night vegetarians). I think it's a good start, considering that I grew up eating meat every day at every meal ;). I will definitely check out that book though.
Recycled Sanctuary: What they say on the phone is not necessarily what they do in the store. Start by filling your cloth bag with bulk and see if the cashier turns you down or actually thanks you for doing so ;)
ReplyDeleteHeather:
ReplyDelete"Death by Rubber Duck" and "Cradle to Cradle" are great starter books.
As for sewer waste: I took a tour of my local sewer plant last year and loved it. It reinforced my Zero Waste methods. Examples:
-Tissue paper is one of the biggest problems for sewer plants (along with other foreign, non TP products like cotton balls and Q-tips thrown in toilets). So not having those items in the first place, helps eliminate temptations or mistakes (often kids) to flush them down.
-We also use a carwash instead of home washing for our car. The water used there is recycled, and the soapy residues do not end up in our bay.
-We use a mesh strainer on our disposal drain. It keeps the veggies from having to be processed at the plant and saves us energy from running the disposal (we just empty the strainer in our compost once or twice a day).
I hope this answers your question. If you have specifics in mind, please formulate them.
I just have to say this to Zach and to Anonymous, above: the China Study does NOT have impeccable scientific credentials. A quick internet search will reveal this fact. It is considered by anyone with even a passing familiarity with statistics to be appalling science.
ReplyDeleteWhile I respect the beliefs of all vegans and vegetarians and fully support their way of eating (even though I don't choose to share it), PLEASE guys, don't tar yourself with the China Study brush. Explore the data for yourself, and find a better book on veganism/vegetarianism to recommend!
@ PZ or Bea:
ReplyDeleteIs Bea's public radio interview on the internet somewhere?
Thanks!
Thank you for continuing to post.I check the blog often and have been saddened by your reduction in # of posts. I look forward to the inspiration and renewed energy they provide. Fighting the nay sayers is draining.
ReplyDeleteHi Bea, You totally rock -- you are my hero!! Thanks for posting again and please know you were missed!! What an amazing way to see the world and inspire others! Can't wait for the next post.
ReplyDeleteWhen I read the Sunset article I thought of all the reasons I could not do it. I don't think I was being negative I was being realistic...Why? Because I would not be successful doing it the same way you and Scott have done it.
ReplyDeleteWe have come up with inventive ways to recycle 90% of our trash (and that's just been in the last few weeks!). We no longer have 'trash' cans. My family has advantages (lots of land to compost different types of things from paper to meat to vegetables) and disadvantages (no recycling provided in our county) compared to your family.
It sound like your reaction may be from hearing people that are holding you up as the holy grail of zero waste living rather then an example of what is possible.
Chin up chicky!
Someone was asking about pressure cooker and I just wanted to add my comment. I love mine and I use it all the time. If you pre-soak your dried beans, then the cooking time improves even more. For instance, I just did some Great Northern Beans. Pre-soaked, they cook in 2-3 minutes after reaching to a high pressure point. How long it takes to reach the high pressure point depends on how much you are cooking, of course. It's approximately how long it takes for the amount of water to boil. If you have time to let pressure come down naturally, then it's this short. I cooked three cups of dried beans last night, used about 16 oz for dinner and put three 12 oz jars away for future use.
ReplyDeleteA good reference book is "Receipes from an Ecological Kitchen" and "Pressure Perfect" both by Lorna Sass. Besides some great recipes, She details out timing for different ingredients (even for different kinds of beans)and other general tips in both books.
I encourage everyone to try pressure cooking. It cuts down electricity use at stove and also in summer, kitchen stays cooler since your cooking time is shorter, cutting down demand on AC. I also think food is more flavorful too, and just plain a sensible tool when you are in a hurry. Hope this helps.
This was a timely article since I am just starting our 2011 "Zero Waste Family Plan"- most of my friends are interested in the concept and want to know more, however a few could barely let me get a sentence out before knocking down the entire idea as "ridiculous, impractical and silly" WOW! Thank you for living your life with such integrity and for sharing your philosophy and road map to living a lighter life on planet earth. I am so grateful to have read the Sunset article, to be in a place where I could feel a "YES I CAN" and to you for coming to my house to consult with me. If a family of 6 can go from "Tons o' waste " to "Less waste" and eventually on to "Zero waste" then anybody can!
ReplyDeleteTHank you for the inspiration! M in Berkeley!
Thank you for blogging about your inspiring lifestyle! I've always tried to use less, but due to your blog, have quit one of my major waste habits - kleenix - and switched to cloth hankies. I didn't think I could do it, but I find that I prefer cloth to the paper. It took me less than a day to discover this. This change was not difficult, expensive, or time consuming. Most zero-waste techniques are the same - they seem almost impossible at first, but once you try it, you wonder why you didn't start sooner!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing about your zero-waste lifestyle on your blog! I only wish I could hire you to consult at my home, but I live in Portland, OR. Oh well, I'm still inspired and armed with so many ideas, thank you many times over! Don't worry about the critics, here's something that Mark Twain had to say about critics: “One mustn't criticize other people on grounds where he can't stand perpendicular himself.” Keep up the great work, you are an inspiration!
ReplyDeleteBea, I know my request is outside the original scope of your blog, but so many people have touched on issues that go beyond zero waste but are often the consequence, that I would like to add my voice to theirs. If you ever run out of zero waste topics, could you share more nuts and bolts about eliminating intangible waste? In other words, more specificity in streamlining schedules, managing time, managing money, meal planning (which you've already promised!) as well as other household chores, and dealing with the intangible waste of time and energy, both physical and emotional. Again, I realize that was not your original intent for this blog, but many of us see you as a role model for more than just having an empty trash can!
ReplyDeleteSuch an inspiration! I loved the Sunset article and am so happy to have found your blog. Will be doing all we can to be mindful of our ways and to waste less! Thank you for your encouraging words and ideas!
ReplyDeleteI would love to know how you handle these types of restaurant situations. I am debating my responses and have been inspired by your decisions regarding other matters, please share if you would.
ReplyDeleteWent to a sports bar/restaurant recently and saw real plates and glasses so felt okay ordering coffee. It came in a big styrofoam cup with a plastic top, I was sooo disappointed! I considered sending it back but assumed they would just toss the cup as it had been used. Won't make that mistake again! Beyond discussing with the owner their other options would you have kept the coffee or sent it back?
There is a great fish taco stand near us that has amazing ahi tacos, but they serve them in (compostable) plastic containers. Do you simply abstain from eating anywhere that doesn't use washable dishes or do you carry some sort of plate ware? If so, what. Or do you accept that some waste may not be avoidable, especially when dining out, and enjoy your lunch while taking the container home to compost or recycle?!
I am writing a letter to In N' Out corporate asking for a "green it" modifier on their secret menu. My husband and boys love this place, it's the only fast food they've ever eaten but it's food wrapped in paper, wrapped in more paper put in a paper bag. With napkins sandwiched between everything! I'd love to know what they told your son when he asked for his shake in his kleen kanteen, I loved that bit!
I am not asking you to tell me what I should do I am truly just asking how you handle these situations so I can decide if something similar would work for me. Thanks!
I found this blog recently and wanted to comment on “negative” comments. I greatly admire the concept, and struggle, but find the label “zero-waste” very off-putting. No human can exist without creating waste. The existence of archeologist shows this to be true. Maybe your food comes from the store to your house in a re-usable bag (created from fabric that uses water and electricity and what not in the construction) but it was grown somewhere that purchased the seeds in a pack, and produced them using water and fertilizer and shipped them via a vehicle to your store in packaging, etc. Using electricity, having light bulbs, purchasing any commercially made object, eating, breathing all produces some sort of waste. So zero waste can never truly be obtained.
ReplyDeleteI will continue reading as I find the ideas inspirational but I won't strive for zero-waste.
I remember someone asking awhile back where Bea purched her vertical wall planter. I think Bea responded that she had brought it back from France. For anyone in the Bay Area they do sell many sizes and indoor and outdoor versions of vertical wall planters at Succulence on Cortland Avenue in San Francisco. I would love to have one in my home but I live in a 100 year old Edwardian with beautiful, original, intact plaster walls and I don't want to risk damaging the plaster. If you live in a newer home with drywall those planters would be a great option. ~Kelly
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to reassure Leigh that the staff of my favorite take-out place was thrilled when I asked if I could reuse my take-out containers for my next visit. I've never had a problem having restaurants use my own tupperware as a doggy-bag or for take-out. It costs the restaurant lots of money to buy all of those containers.
ReplyDeleteIn reference to the comment that turnips could be sold in bulk and do not need the paper and metal tie wrap:
ReplyDeleteI work at farmer's markets in Bellingham and Seattle and people do not buy bulk turnips, or carrots or beets. If we want to sell our vegetables they need to be bunched. They also have to have the greens attached or no one buys them, but the customers all ask me to remove the green tops for. Oddly enough the reverse is true for some produce. For example prebaged lettuce does not sell, it must be out in bins and bagged for each customer. Large tomatos will sell in bulk but not cherry tomatos (those have to go in a cardboard berry basket). It's just one of those odd things, people are very sensitive to how their food is displayed, and what context it is in, such as the paper wrap around bread at the store (which like the metal tie wraps really isn't needed).
Since reading your article I've really been working on reducing waste in our household. Despite not having my husband on board, I've drastically reduced our garbage. In fact, my husband said on Thursday, "You know, the last two weeks we've only had one or two bags of garbage. That's really weird." I smiled to myself. Little does he know, the small steps I'm starting to take are making a difference. But I am taking little steps, a couple a month. I think by the end of the year, it's going to really be very different around here.
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to mention that I was in Berkeley the other day and found reusable sandwich and snack bags called "Waste-nots". I bought a set for each member of the family to use in lunches. My boys loved them. Thought the designs were "cool".
I enjoy your blog. Thanks so much.
I found your blog, clearly, like many other through the Sunset article, and I find your efforts inspiring. I am no where near as far along in this journey as you are, but I am happy to be on the road.
ReplyDeleteIt's so lovely to see so many new followers and commenters! Just think, for every person who comments on this blog there must be dozens more who read but don't comment. All of those people have had the zero waste seed planted in their minds and hopefully are taking steps to reduce their waste. That must really add up- you are making a huge difference!
ReplyDeleteIt wonderful what you realise when you look objectively at your lifestyle. We recently gave away our microwave because I realised I only ever used it to reheat food I really shouldn't be eating anyway (e.g. take-away, pre-made meals etc). Now I have more room in my kitchen and am preparing healthier food. The same goes for bulk food, there isn't much junk food available in bulk so already your choices are healthier ones. Great, easy, small changes that add up to real difference.
Keep up the inspirational posts!
Please don't be discouraged by the critics, Bea!
ReplyDeleteBy taking the steps you have within your own household, you've reduced strain on the Earth's resources by the amount your own family used to send to landfill each year.
By writing about it, you've reduced strain on the Earth's resources by the amount all your readers used to send to landfill, before we read your ideas and started reducing our own households' waste.
I was a diligent recycler and Freecycler before I found your blog, but you've inspired me to go much further than that. I'm still nowhere near Zero Waste, but my husband and I have gone from generating almost a bag of trash per day, to one per week, and have also reduce the amount that we throw in recycling (esp. plastics).
Some of the things we've done so far:
* Bought a small assortment of reusable shopping bags, so we rarely accept plastic bags from stores now.
* I switched from re-using a disposable plastic water bottle for a few weeks at a time, to using a stainless-steel one instead.
* I buy most of my clothes second-hand, because I can justify the things I only wear for a season or two much more easily if they have other homes before and after their brief time with me.
* When we moved to the country recently and had to furnish a much-larger house (compared to our tiny city apartment) we bought all our furniture second-hand.
* I try to buy quality items second-hand, because having re-sale value on eBay makes it easier for people to justify spending the extra on high-quality items to begin with.
* For the few things we buy new, we concentrate on buying things that will 'stay bought' - i.e. we pay more to get quality that'll last a long time, instead of buying a cheap one & sending it to landfill when it breaks or wears out in a year or two.
* Now that we're in the country and have space, we compost like mad -- and will soon be able to start using that compost on the fruit and veg growing in our backyard.
* Any time we buy anything, we choose items with as little packaging as possible, and choose paper or cardboard and glass over plastic wherever we can.
* My husband has started making all our bread and beer, so we're not buying packaged stuff that's shipped for long distances.
They're all 'small steps', but the little things add up. Next up, I'll sew some cloth bags so we can start buying more of our groceries in bulk. I probably won't ever get to Zero Waste -- I have celiac disease and many gluten-free grain products are over-packaged, unfortunately (part of why we make our own bread) -- but every little bit helps.
So please, when some guilt-ridden person lashes out at you for setting an example they feel they can't live up to, so won't even try to, think of all the people like me who've been inspired to reduce our waste by your wonderful blog. Through showing others what's possible, you're making a difference far beyond your own home.
I have adopted your zero waste approach to grocery shopping and enjoy it very much. Until today, I could not figure out how to eliminate the annoying tags and stickers provided by the stores to identify the codes for bulk items. I found it a hassle to fill out the tags, only to toss them after going through the effort of bringing my own jars and bags for bulk items. Today, I put the codes on an electronic "notepad" on my smart phone and then called them out to the clerk as she processed my purchases. The checkout clerk was very appreciative of the help and I did not have to deal with tags and stickers when I got home.
ReplyDeleteKeep up the great posts---my daily life has become much more healthy and efficient since heading towards zero waste!
only just come across your blog, have embarked on the zero waste journey, making little changes one step at a time. You have some really good tips there and will take some inspiration out of them!
ReplyDeleteMy family, for one, has been inspired by you and your unrealistic lifestyle! Eliminating sources of plastic (particularly food packaging) that come into our house has been my current crusade... went bulk on bagels and started making our own yogurt for two huge dents in the weekly plastic bag pile. Next, a new source of tortillas and going to bulk cheese (why our coop does not do this I have yet to understand). Step by step.
ReplyDeleteChange can offend some people because it scares them. But action should be empowering! Have you read anything about the aesthetic of deprivation and how if people think that this is what revolution will look and feel like, they won't do it? We just saw the documentary No Impact Man and he addresses this a bit in the film. Less can be BETTER! Bill McKibben also writes on this topic.
Thanks for writing about your world!
I agree w/ the baby steps approach. When I first started reading the blog, I found it completely overwhelming. But since then, I've broken it down to small goals. E.g. During the holidays, I vowed I wouldn't buy any wrapping paper, paper gift bags or ribbon. And I didn't. We reused some items we had and I wrapped in fabric and fabric bags w/ fabric ribbon. It wasn't earth-shattering, but I met my goal 100% and I was proud of it.
ReplyDeleteMy goal for 2011 is to get rid of sponges for doing dishes. I'm transitioning to crocheted dish cloths. I also want to transition to fewer commercial cleaning supplies. It's small stuff, but it will help.
You are doing great job and are a true inspiration. I am no where near "zero" waste but I am making small changes and it is all because of your wonderful blog. Keep up the great posts!
ReplyDeleteAgree with the chorus here - my family and I are not anywhere near zero (yet) but since reading the Sunset article and finding and devouring your blog we've already begun to make changes. Your honesty and advice are so valuable - thank you! (And Mother Earth says thanks too - grin.)
ReplyDeleteMollyonmoney: I think you misunderstood my post and I do not understand your comment. You mention recycling without recycling (not available in your county) and having trash without trash (no container for it)... Please explain!
ReplyDeleteHeather: thanks for your comment. Please note that this is a blog about zero waste not zero carbon footprint. Again, I did not invent the concept, (please do your research), and I found that it best described our efforts. Please read archives and comments (in one of them I also mention the packaging that bulk comes in). Everyone here worries about their carbon footprint (this blog would not exist otherwise). There is not much we can do about being born ;)
Leigh: I think Alison answered your question just beautifully.
Everyone else: thanks for sharing your experiences!
Bea, thank you. For the second week in a row I have sent only 1 garbage bag to the curb, and the recycle bin has been full. I called the city and found out about all the kitchen scraps I could put in the green bin. We are saving our grey water and making positive changes, thanks in part to your inspiration!
ReplyDeleteAnonymous: great idea to note your item numbers on your phone. As mentioned in the blog, I use a (washable) woodless watercolor pencil (formerly a washable marker) to write item numbers on my cloth bags. But your idea is great if for some reason I do not have it handy!
ReplyDeleteJust found your article in Sunset and I am so excited! I have been making lots of changes in our lifestyle in the last few years, so your tips are only helping that to go to a new level. I just started cleaning out since we are getting two babies from Ethiopia and your article is really inspiring and gives me a good place to start. thank you!
ReplyDeleteI agree that is a great idea to write the numbers down in your phone and share with the cashier. You could also use the camera in your phone to just take a picture of the Item # and show that to the cashier as well. I might try that the next time I'm at Rainbow. ~Kelly
ReplyDeleteI just listened to the recent airing of KPFA's "Terra Verde" that featured you and your son. Someday, I will get my lifestyle down to zero waste, and knowing that there are people actually living the lifestyle keeps me striving for that goal. As you said in the interview, it's all about reaching for the "low-hanging fruit" first and progressing from there. Merci beaucoup, Bea!
ReplyDelete--Jessica
You are dead-on with your observation that people are frightened by the truth. We were taught as young toddleres not to "make a mess" and often punished when we did. Then, somehow the rules changed and it was only certain kinds of messes that were bad. Yet, we were still taught "throw that dirty diaper, towel, paper napkin, broken toys, etc, *away*." The horror is discovering that there is no "away" anymore and the deep uneasiness that is felt as we realize our nasty messes are coming back to haunt us. People either fight or fly in response to fear- you are fighting, while (many of) your critics are "flighting" (or "freezing") No one really wants to feel like they made a mess and "angered mommy". Thanks for keeping such a great blog, doing what you do and inspiring the rest of us. Une million mercis et bon chance avec touts vos occupations!
ReplyDeleteBea- I read your article and have been inspired everyday since. I think you should write a book about your experience. I would love to know how you function on a day to day basis. Meaning how are you are making choices everyday to have a zero waste home. I drove an hour to the only store that sell in bulk near me and didn't have much luck. I did however buy a few things that will help with lessening our waste. I admire and am fascinated by your drive to keep our planet a beautiful place!
ReplyDeleteBea, you've changed my new year's resolution. Thanks you. I have one quick quesiton. What do you use for storing liquids like broth in the FREEZER? I use the lockable glass jar like yours for the fridge, but if I freeze in it, I am worried that the liquid expansion in the jar below freezing point is not so safe. Any guideline or alternative?
ReplyDeleteI just saw Vanessa's comment and wanted to respond, hoping it is still related to zero-waste. I have examined the methodology and credibility of the China Study with a critical eye, I've read his debates with other professors and read reviews, it holds up. President Clinton also just cited the book as a reason he's gone almost vegan (still eats some fish, apparently). Can you point to some credible studies that support your position? I haven't seen anything, you apparently have, and would like to look at that evidence if you would be willing to share.
ReplyDeletehow do your sons feel about only recieving clothes once a year?
ReplyDeleteAnonymous: I freeze in jars, and they don't break.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous: They get excited about the seasonal closet turn over but you'll be able to ask my son yourself. He will be taking questions in a couple of weeks. But please be accurate when asking (his closet gets turned over twice a year, not once).
ReplyDeleteHey Zach, thanks for the follow-up. I don't want to hijack Bea's comments, as I think we're getting off topic now (what say you, Bea?). However, I'm very happy to email you to discuss further. Trying to think of a way to do this without broadcasting my sole, private email address to the web. Maybe if we both emailed Bea with our addresses, she would kindly pass them on?
ReplyDeleteAnd just a general note for those who are reading these comments and care about this: I can't recommend strongly enough, in everything, please look at the data for yourself and don't be swayed by personalities. It doesn't matter how credible the people promoting an idea are, or how famous – if the data doesn't hold up then it doesn't hold up. (Read about how personalities swayed public opinion in the vaccination scare campaign, if you want an example: http://www.smh.com.au/world/science/how-mommy-instinct-outdid-science-20110204-1agui.html.)
Okay, rant about critical thinking over!
I am so happy to have found this blog...keep doing what you are doing! My family and I have just been lucky enough to purchase our first home and I have been researching ways to be a more responsible citizen of the planet. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI have a comment for the poster who noted that the Evergreen TP got expensive once shipping was tallied in. If you live within the 48 continental states, shipping from the website (at least this one: http://letsgogreen.biz/pages/paper/evergreen.html )
ReplyDeleteis free if your order totals more than $49, which ordering 5 12-packs of TP at a time will accomplish. Of course this isn't practical for anyone without the space needed to store the extra until it's needed, but it's a possibility.
I also wanted to say Bea how much reading your blog has changed the way I look at things! I'm slowly but surely taking the steps I can. I've already begun to look into microfiber cloths, cloth napkins, and hankies to reduce two of my household's most thrown away items, tissues and paper towels. Next up, testing the deodorant stone and shampoo bar. And once I run out of soap, time to try the castile in bulk! I can't wait!
Thanks for the inspiration!
where do you find milk in glass bottles and the glass jars?? I am going to see if i can help my family out by trying this zero waste thing!!
ReplyDeleteHello Bea,
ReplyDeleteMy husband told me that he won't try zero waste with me because it's "too hippie."
How do I urge him to think about the big idea? & also how would I go about it without him without constantly cleaning up after him ect...
Ohkaikytrees: Thanks for your comment. I completely understand your husband! A few years back, I would have shared his opinion and pretty much associated Zero Waste with Tie Dye ;)
ReplyDeleteToday, I sure do not consider myself a "hippie", just someone who cares about her kids future. I also happen to care about fashion, design and... the environment. Did your husband watch our Yahoo video? It has helped many people put this lifestyle into perspective.
Moriah: Please refer to the postings "Bulk shopping in and around Mill valley" and "Zero Waste Grocery Shopping for a link to Straus milk". Thanks.
ReplyDeleteEven if people just start small by reducing their trash by half, it will still make a huge difference. There are so many easy things people can do to make a difference. Many are mentioned on your blog, like using cloth instead of paper towels or taking your own bags to the grocery store. Eventually, people will be ready to take bigger steps.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fantastic post and oh so true. For many who are new to this it will be difficult to conceptualize a zero waste lifestyle but there are always things that can be done. As long as you try. I certainly haven't hit the zero waste yet. I am battling with a number of things but I know each small step takes me closer to my goal. And for that I am proud.
ReplyDelete