7 Simple Ways To Go Zero-waste In 2020

A simple glance around your home and you’re likely to find something that you do not need. From plastic cutlery from your last take-out to disposable paper napkins, paper bags and more, our homes are filled with stuff that we don’t know how to recycle.

As per statistical data, India generates 62 million tonnes of waste per year and if it continues at this rate, we will need a landfill the size of Bengaluru to dump it all in.

A great way to nip this problem is by reducing waste generation at a personal level. Although recycling is a great way to go green, reducing and reusing is even better. So if you’re looking to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle, here are 7 ways to start doing so in 2020:

Wherever you go, take your own bottle with you. It is important to stay hydrated, but it is also important to take nature into consideration while doing so. Carrying a bottle ensures you avoid reaching out for packaged, plastic ones. You can refill your bottles with water almost anywhere you go.

When you go out shopping at your favourite store, pay attention to those canvas or cotton bags near the billing section. These may be a little costlier than their regular paper bags, but have much more use in the long run. They’re light and foldable and can be easily taken anywhere the next time you go out shopping. 

Next time you order food, avoid taking cutlery from the restaurant. Every time you use restaurant cutlery, you add to single-use plastic that damages the environment. If you’re used to ordering food at work, make it a habit to carry a steel spoon, fork and knife with you. These can be easily washed with tap water and fit comfortably in your bags.

We all struggle to dispose of those plastic or paper bags after grocery shopping. Bringing your own cloth bags for groceries is a better alternative to this. Keep a few in your purse if you decide to go for a last-minute purchase, or hang them near your door to grab on your way out. There are plenty of super light, durable, all-natural cotton bags available in the market these days and are perfect for you, as well as the planet. 

When you wipe your mouth after a meal with single-use tissue papers, ever wonder what happens to them? These end up in the landfill and are extremely difficult to recycle. Imagine the amount of waste we are creating with this seemingly small habit. It’s time to go old-school and carry a clean handkerchief (or two) when you step out. This is a great way to reduce the amount of paper and saving the environment.

Do your research and find out more about environment-friendly alternatives that you can use in your daily life. From switching to a bamboo toothbrush and steel straws to making your own home-made personal care products, there is so much you can do to reduce and start a zero-waste lifestyle.