You may have heard about the “zero-waste” movement. The growing awareness of the human impact on the environment is widespread and becoming easier to adapt to with many alternatives to a healthier, more eco-conscious lifestyle. But what is this movement's purpose?
Zero-waste is a term used to describe a lifestyle that strives to be as minimal as possible. It focuses on a circular economy, which keeps resources within a cycle, rather than a linear economy, which takes place when resources are used and then discarded. Instead of throwing out things we should use the three R’s, reduce, reuse and recycle (in that order). Simply, it is a lifestyle that aims to land as little trash in the landfill as possible. Sounds cool, right? Here’s the catch. A zero-waste lifestyle, isn’t just a unique, individual process, but it’s also slightly unrealistic. There isn’t a way to produce no waste at all and to say that there is simply romanticizes something unattainable. Instead, many are shifting the name to something more reachable and friendly: low-impact lifestyle. The low-impact lifestyle is similar to a zero-waste lifestyle as it encourages a circular economy and sustainable habits, but in a less rigid, adaptable, and more practical way. Here is a guide on how to implement this low-impact lifestyle into your own situation. Remember that these changes don’t happen overnight and to implement these actions within your own means. It takes time, patience, and a willingness to continue to learn. *Write down your ‘why’. Establish why you want to change your lifestyle. Ask yourself the following questions and perhaps make it a journaling exercise:
*Assess and prioritize. Begin to observe your habits when it comes to waste. For example, perhaps you use plastic bags or utensils often, but are good at keeping a reusable water bottle with you when you go out. Or you make sure to buy clothes second hand, but often use plastic water bottles. Assess habits such as these to make sure you are giving proper attention to them. That way, you are prioritizing things that you are actively doing and want to change.
*Start small. There are simple steps you can take right now that will create an impact.
*Ready to make a switch? Remember that you don’t need something fancy to fulfill the purpose of a low impact lifestyle. Keep the plastic bags given to you at the store or make a t-shirt bag to hold your stuff. Save and clean the tomato jars after you are done with them for drinks on the go. Bring the metal utensils you use at home with you to use instead of single use ones. There are so many different ways to make a switch without buying something new. *Continue to educate yourself and stand up for yourself! You have the option of saying “no” when offered a straw. You have the ability to write to your representatives if you don’t like the way something is being handled. You can volunteer to help a beach clean up. You can raise awareness within your family. The only way to really implement a low impact lifestyle into your life is to truly understand what is at stake. Think back to the first question. What is your why? Let it drive your learning and confidence in this new journey! My Lifestyle Habits and Actions However, if you are interested in taking the Low Impact lifestyle a step further, here are a few things I do and habits I practice that have helped me in my own low-impact journey.
---> I use bar soap for my face and body to use less packaging
---> Local Farmers Market (food) ---> Earthwell Refill (self-care) ---> Or bulk sections in any store!
Please be advised that not everything I am able to do is accessible to everyone. I am very fortunate to have resources, but understand that not everyone is able to do these things. The important thing to remember is that even the smallest action you take can have a big impact! For me, it has been quite a journey to get to the point where I am today in regards to a low impact lifestyle and one thing’s for sure; I definitely have a lot more to learn and grow! With that in mind, remember to be kind to yourself. You will make mistakes and it will be tough. But it will also be really fun and gratifying in the end! Resources for Further Exploration: (Keep in mind that these resources might mention Zero Waste, but you can easily replace it with a Low Impact Mindset!) Youtubers:
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