“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margret Mead
This quote is true in many aspects of our lives and reducing our impact on this earth is one of them. As we approach Earth Day, on April 22, I would like to share my family’s lifestyle with our OUTCAN family.
My family of four strives to live Zero Waste (sending nothing to landfill) in an effort to reduce our carbon footprint. Prior to this lifestyle change, we were a typical Canadian family: two kids, dog, two cars and a large black bag of garbage to curbside weekly. By making changes to our consumer habits we reduced our waste to virtually nothing. I am not advocating everyone live Zero Waste but imagine the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and strain on our natural resources if everyone reduced their waste by half or three-quarters! With a few tweaks to your current lifestyle you will be amazed how little you utilize your waste bin. Remember, once this way of life is instilled in your children, their generation will expect that lifestyle.
Why Zero Waste?
Canada is one of the worst waste offenders globally, creating over four lbs of waste per Canadian daily. By modifying our consumption habits we can change those stats. And the added bonus to you, it is money back in your wallet.
Where to Start?
Use up what you have first. You likely have a multitude of personal care items stashed around the house. Before purchasing more, use up what you have and before restocking ask yourself these questions:
a. Do I need this item? Does every member of the family need a specific shampoo? If you decide you do need the item ask yourself;
b. Can I find a more sustainable version? Swap plastic toothbrushes for a bamboo, replace bottled hand soap for bar soap, or can I find a refill store where I can refill an existing bottle?
Use vinegar & baking soda for cleaning. Vinegar is a solvent, which means it cuts through grease and soap scum, it is also an effective germ killer and deodorizer. Best of all it is dirt cheap! If you are not a fan of how vinegar smells, Google how to make citrus vinegar cleaner.
Always use your grocery totes, reusable produce bags and reusable containers. Avoid single use plastics at every opportunity. In Canada over 3 billion single-use plastic bags are used annually for an average of 20 minutes and plastic bags take up to 400 years to breakdown. Choose loose produce, shop in the bulk section and use reusable containers at the meat & cheese counter.
Compost. Most cities have compost programs set up, investigate yours. This is an incredibly easy habit to commit to.
Research Zero Waste and Refill Shops. You will be astonished at the growing number of farmers markets, refill stores & bulk stores out there.
Remember, our choices matter, and you can do it.