”In the UK, 50% of all plastic shampoo bottles are collected for recycling and only 7% of these actually get recycled into new bottles...”
Making the switch to a zero-waste lifestyle may seem like a daunting and exhausting task, however, it can be as easy or as difficult as you make it. Many gurus and books emphasise on divinding long term goals into easy short term task, whether it be fitness, business or any other aspiration, and living zero-waste is no different.
Here in the UK, plastic pollution and waste have become a major concern, just look at the graph below by Statista and you’ll realise that it is true that plastic has become a problem that needs to be addressed strongly. The UK lacks the infrastructure to deal with increasing plastic waste and as Statista clearly describes, this issue has been made even worse by recent bans from foreign countries on waste imports. This means that the UK now faces an unprecedented urgency to find a solution for plastic waste.
We have to admit that the challenge is a big one, but with a few simple changes, you can help reduce plastic’s environmental impact, live more sustainably and lead the country into an era of zero-waste living.
Let’s take a look at some easy swaps you can make around your home to go green;
1. Swap Plastic Toothbrushes for Bamboo Toothbrushes
2. Ditch Disposable Makeup Wipes for Reusable Pads
3. Reduce Water Waste with Low-Flow Fixtures
4. Switch to Solid Shampoo Bars and Cut Out Plastic Bottles
5. Refuse Plastic Containers and Switch to Glass Storage Jars
6. Improve Your Heating Efficiency to Save Energy
1. Swap the Plastic Toothbrush for a Bamboo Toothbrush
We all use toothbrushes every day, but did you know that plastic toothbrushes are a huge contributor to landfill waste? In the UK alone, 265 million end up in the bin every year, Enough to circle the earth once! A bamboo toothbrush is a simple, biodegradable swap that eliminates around 98% of the plastic when compared to traditional plastic ones, that’s no mean feat when you consider how many are thrown away every year! can make a big difference. Bamboo is a sustainable material, and the switch is easy—plus, your teeth will thank you for the change!
2. Ditch Disposable Makeup Wipes for Reusable Pads
If you’re still using disposable makeup wipes, it might be time to rethink your routine. These wipes can be convenient, but in the long run they end up being very costly considering you use them only once, they also create a lot of single use plastic waste from their packaging, and for some, they can be too harsh on the face. Reusable makeup remover pads are a much better alternative. They’re eco-friendly, gentler on your skin, and can be washed and used again. Our reusable make-up pads also have a finely stitched finger pocket so that you can easily handle them.
3. Reduce Water Waste with Low-Flow Fixtures
Cutting down on water waste is another fantastic way to live more sustainably. Low-flow showerheads or taps can save a family of 4 can up to 100,000L per year! Simple habits like taking shorter showers or turning the tap off while brushing your teeth can help save gallons of water and ££ over time. Remeber, every drop counts! We had discussed this topic of water saving in more depth here.
4. Switch to Solid Shampoo Bars and Cut Out Plastic Bottles
Plastic shampoo bottles are everywhere, in fact 520 million plastic shampoo bottles end up in UK landfills yearly. Recycling is not an effective way of dealing with plastic bottles, a study by the Euromonitor states that in the UK only 50% of all plastic shampoo bottles are collected for recycling, and only 7% of those bottles are actually recycled into new bottles. So what can you do? After all we still want to keep our hair clean. The 2 most common alternatives are the shampoo powder and the solid shampoo bar. Our shampoo bars are not only plastic-free but also made from natural ingredients that are great for your hair and the planet. Plus, on average they last longer than bottled shampoo. Waterless shampoo are also ideal for those who love to travel, since you won’t be limited by the 100ml container requirement set by many airlines!
5. Refuse Plastic Containers and Switch to Glass Storage Jars
One of the easiest ways to cut down on plastic waste is by refusing single-use plastic containers, especially for food storage. Plastic containers often wear out quickly, can leach harmful chemicals, and contribute to the growing plastic problem. Instead, try switching to glass storage jars or containers. Not only are they more durable and eco-friendly, but they’re also look much better!
Glass jars can be reused endlessly, making them perfect for everything from storing leftovers to organizing pantry staples like pasta, rice, and snacks. Plus, they’re 100% recyclable when you’re done with them.
6. Improve Your Heating Efficiency to Save Energy
It’s not just plastic waste we need to think about or that waste that we can easily see in the bin —energy efficiency is also key to creating a sustainable home. By making small adjustments, like using a programmable thermostat or improving insulation, you can cut down on energy waste and consumption, and lower your heating bills. Not only will you reduce your carbon footprint, but you’ll also create a cosier, more energy-efficient home.
Living a zero-waste lifestyle is all about making small, manageable changes that add up over time. Every little change helps, and it’s easier than you think to create a more sustainable, eco-friendly household here in the UK. Spread the message, help family and friends to start this journey, and share ideas and opinions, the more we are the nicer this adventure will be!