If you’re still looking for good New Year’s resolutions, we’ve put together a list of small changes that you can apply in your everyday life. These changes not only have a positive effect on our environment, but you will also feel better when you know that you are doing something good. You don’t have to implement all 55 resolutions right away. See which points you may have already fulfilled and which ones you can integrate into your everyday life with little effort. This way, you will gradually move towards a zero waste life. But always remember: it is a process and every small step is already a great success.
Tips for Less Waste
1. Use biodegradable dental floss instead of plastic floss.
2. Use solid shampoo and conditioner instead of bottles (or liquids in refill stores)
3. Use washable cosmetic flannels instead of disposable cotton balls
4. Use a bamboo toothbrush instead of a plastic one
5. Use a menstrual cup, reusable panty liners, or specially made menstrual underwear
6. Switch to lip balm, deodorant, skin care / hair care products that are in paper tubes, jars, or metal cans (or DlY)
Here you can find a DIY facial care product
7. Buy recycled or bamboo toilet paper
8. Create a small garden, just for herbs
9. Try toothpaste powder or tabs
10. Choose solid soap or refill soap formulas
11. Choose sustainably produced and packaged cosmetics
12. Uses plastic-free cotton swabs (or none at al!)
13. Switch to handkerchiefs instead of tissues
14. Use homemade cleaning products or use refill formulas
15. Switch to metal razors and blades
16. Hang up laundry to dry
17. Don’t buy fast fashion
18. Support small local businesses
19. Choose to buy second hand
20. Repair instead of replacing
21. Learn basic repair skills
22. Make more DIY or homemade products (baking, cooking, cleaning, etc.)
Here you can find a recipe for homemade granola
23. Compost when you can
24. Learn how to recycle properly (read local rules)
25. Unsubscribe from unnecessary mail and send as much as possible digitally
26. Create a waste-less cutlery set for on the go and take it with you
27. Bring your own bags when you go shopping
28. Bring your own nets/bags for fruit, vegetables and bread
29. No longer use disposable plates and cutlery
30. Do not ask for plastic straws in restaurants
30. Do not ask for plastic straws in restaurants
32. Say “no” to free promotional items
33. Say “no” to evidence if you can
34. Bring your own containers for take-away restaurants
35. Find bulk or refill stores near you
36. Choose ground coffee and loose tea leaves (if possible from organic farming and fair trade)
37. Make zero waste coffee with a French press or a reusable coffee filter and pour-over coffee maker
38. Go shopping at local farmers market
39. Avoid meat and dairy products more often
40. Avoid plastic wrap (use wax wrap or other food storage methods)
41. Use cloths and tea towels instead of paper towels
42. Use cloth napkins
43. Buy in bulk
44. Privilege unpackaged products
45. Bring your own lunch (in a lunch box and without plastic bags)
46. Choose “ugly” products or goods that are otherwise not bought
47. Plan your meals, eat your leftover food and reduce food waste
Learn how to plan your meal here
48. Make your own broths out of vegetable waste
49. Use your own travel mug and water bottle
50. Go to your local library
51. Use both sides of the paper before you recycle it
52. Give little used items to people who need them
53. Use residual water to water your plants
54. Rethink gift giving: Gift experiences, second hand or from local small businesses with environmentally friendly practices
55. No more wrapping paper: Use substances or waste materials such as wrapping paper and newsprint
Now we wish you all the best in implementing your resolutions!
List inspired by Instagram: leahstellapayne
