1. Reusable shopping bags – Investing in reusable shopping bags will save you money in the long run as they last longer than single use plastics. Plus, many stores offer discounts for bringing your own bag!
However, I have found that I have so many bags around from promotions or companies that give them away that I always have a reusable bag. I can also reuse nut milk bags as produce bags.
2. Bulk bins – Buying food from bulk bins eliminates any packaging waste associated with pre-packaged items like chips or cereal that come wrapped in layers of non recyclable materials like foil and plastics film wrap.
3. BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) - Investing a few dollars into a stainless steel water bottle will eliminate all those little bottles of water that often end up getting thrown away after one use anyway; not only saving you some cash on beverages while out and about but also reducing your environmental impact by eliminating unnecessary waste production too!
4. Make your own diy cleaning products - Making simple household cleaners at home using ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice etc. costs pennies compared to store bought versions which usually contain harsh chemicals AND come packaged with lots of extra non recyclable materials too!
There is even a totally zero waste DIY cleaning product that you can make from your fruit peels and scraps!
5. Homemade beauty products – Many cosmetics companies package their items with excessive amounts of unrecyclable material making them both wasteful & pricey.
-
Why should I go plastic-free? Going plastic-free helps reduce your environmental footprint and minimizes plastic pollution. It's a sustainable choice that benefits the planet by reducing plastic waste.
-
Is going plastic-free expensive? Going plastic-free doesn't have to be costly. It is amazing how much you have around the house already that can be repurposed to start your zero waste journey. A lot of bags, jars even a suitcase can be your new ultimate reusable shopping bag.
-
Are Gaia Guy's plastic-free products durable? Yes, Gaia Guy's products are designed for durability, ensuring they last and provide value for your investment. Other products are made from natural materials so they are robust, but also designed to be composted and or recycled or even upcycled.
-
What types of plastic-free products does Gaia Guy offer? Gaia Guy offers a wide range of plastic-free products, from bamboo toothbrushes with silk floss to zero waste kits and more. There's something for every aspect of your daily life.
-
Where can I find Gaia Guy's plastic-free products? You can find Gaia Guy's plastic-free products right here and Etsy and amazon and in select retail locations. Ordering online is convenient and ensures you have access to their full range of sustainable options.
-
Is it expensive to go zero waste and plastic-free? Going zero waste and plastic-free can be as affordable as you make it. While some eco-friendly products can have higher upfront costs, they often save you money in the long run.
-
What are some cost-effective ways to start my zero-waste journey? To save money, start by making small changes like using a reusable water bottle and cloth shopping bags. It may seem a bit daunting but really DIY cleaning products are easy to make once you try and remember to buy in bulk to reduce packaging.
-
Is it advisable to buy secondhand items on my journey to zero waste? Absolutely! Buying secondhand is not only budget-friendly but also sustainable. You can find items like glass containers, clothing, and kitchen utensils at thrift stores or through online marketplaces.
-
What are some items that I should prioritize buying secondhand to save money and reduce waste? Consider buying secondhand furniture, electronics, clothing, and kitchen appliances. These items are often available in good condition at a fraction of the cost of new products.
-
Are there resources to help me find affordable zero-waste alternatives? Yes, there are many online communities and forums where people share tips, recommendations, and affordable alternatives for reducing waste. You can also check out Gaia Guy's product offerings for reasonably priced plastic-free solutions.