12 Cheap & Easy Tips for Reducing Your Waste - Sustainable Zero Waste Hacks

We're sharing a dozen cheap and easy tips to help beginners reduce their garbage output and transition to a low waste, or zero waste lifestyle. While you're here, help Ecosia plant trees around the world by simply searching the internet: ecosia.co/alternatives
Our tips include things like avoiding plastic shopping and produce bags, using reusable glass or stainless steel food containers, coffee mugs, and water bottles. Doing a waste audit and researching what waste sorting options are available in your city or town (especially composting!!). Getting inspired by documentaries, bloggers, and Instagram accounts. Being a friendly activist and spreading the word about the importance of sustainable living, and reducing the amount of garbage we produce every day.
The following product links are for items that we purchased ourselves in case you're interested in trying them out (no affiliate links and no sponsored items).
Spork from Life Without Plastic:
www.lifewithoutplastic.com/st...
Stainless steel food containers from Onyx:
www.onyxcontainers.com/
Mesh produce bags from Care Bags:
www.greenmunch.ca/housewares/r...
Abeego beeswax food wrap cloth:
abeego.com/
Cloth bags: various sources
Stainless steel water bottle: gift with no brand name
Reusable coffee mugs, the silver one is from REI and the purple one is from Contigo (gifted to us by Kicking Horse Coffee):
Documentaries:
Addicted to Plastic: www.crypticmoth.com/plastic.php
Plastic Paradise: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch:
plasticparadisemovie.com/
Zero Waste Blogs:
Trash is for Tossers: trashisfortossers.com/
Zero Waste Home: zerowastehome.com/
PareDown Home: www.paredownhome.com/
Zero Waste Instagram Accounts:
/ zerowastecouple
/ zerowasteguy
/ stevieyaaaay
/ adreamlivedgreener
/ imorganicblog
Thank you to all of the people, stores, and restaurants who let us film inside their spaces, and who've helped us reduce our waste!!!
Nu Grocery zero waste grocery store
nugrocery.com/
Bread By Us bakery
breadbyus.com/
Bridgehead Coffee
www.bridgehead.ca/
Urban Juice Press
urbanjuicepress.ca/
NousRire bulk buying group
nousrire.com/
Provigo grocery store
www.provigo.ca/
Sushi Shop
www.sushishop.com/en
Thanks for watching!
Mat & Danielle
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STAY IN TOUCH!
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Blog: www.exploringalternatives.ca
Facebook: /exploringalternativesblog
Instagram: @exploringalternatives
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COMMENTS
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Please discuss and debate with respect, and report inappropriate or hateful comments directly to KZbin.
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We will always disclose if we’re promoting products that were given to us for free, or if we’re including a sponsored message in our video.
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VIDEO CREDITS
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Music & Song Credits:
All music in this video was composed, performed, and recorded by Mat of Exploring Alternatives.
Editing Credits:
Mat and Danielle of Exploring Alternatives
Filming Credits:
Mat of Exploring Alternatives

[@devikakaushal1091]

"The way you act with them is how they are going to perceive the entire movement." That's a very useful piece of advise!

[@minaisabelle4627]

I’ve recently been trying to live a life with less waste! It’s difficult because I’m 14 and my parents don’t really get the point of the whole zero waste movement but I’m trying to see if they’ll come around to it by sneaking in any facts I can whenever we go out shopping to encourage them not to buy the plastic items. I’ve been bringing tote bags into stores for them so we don’t need to use plastic bags. I’ve gone vegetarian so I do my own shopping generally so I can make food to eat (I was allowed to switch my diet as long as I made my own food), and I’ve become more cautious and use mesh bags instead of the thin plastic to carry my vegetables in. Hopefully my parents will be more open to the idea of living a zero waste lifestyle in the future!

[@eggandchips4t]

Brilliant! We need many more people like you. Sorry to hear that your parents don't get it. Hopefully they'll be willing to learn from you. Your passion for zero waste is awesome!!!!

[@user-yn1ke3wr4k]

What an inspiration you are starting out so young! More power to you!❤

[@bailey3015]

omg this is amazing! did it work out?

[@Sparkles_Deluxe]

"Your reaction and attitude will represent the entire movement." WONDERFUL advice and an interesting insight. Thanks for the content!

[@karenlu3310]

In New Zealand they don’t give you plastic bags anymore

[@rondac4130]

Many places in the USA don't give plastic bags anymore. Some places make you buy them or bring your own bags; even places like gift shops in our national parks and museums.

[@ancaromlak3581]

same in Romania

[@rosagem542]

mbn, I live in America, the only country that doesn't realize how technologically disadvantaged they really are

[@lesbianlunatic2978]

Same in australia

[@hamluk_]

live in america, my state banned them at least. we only brought them back because corona means you don't want people bringing bags from home, but most do anyway.

[@prisciliahioe1297]

The last point is very important: become friendly activist. :)

[@WFSLUKE]

EXACTLY!

[@kdhovis8665]

YES!! 😀😀😀

[@precievy5752]

So true! I've heard mixed reactions, but the best thing was being followed ou t the store buy a guy that says that he had been doing the same and we went on to quickly talk about other ways to pass on the message! Positivity attracts positivity!

[@kristalund6446]

Priscilia Hioe yes!! I love that she mentioned that!!

[@PoppieDaisy]

So true

[@01cthompson]

I'm only 52 and I remember when plastic bottles were still a novelty. most, if not all, bottles were glass. And, coffee to go was an oddity. If my parents wanted a coffee or tea we'd stop at a diner, sit at a counter for it, and they would actually talk to people.

[@EllenMHelms]

Yes!!! Talking with people, what a concept ;-) I'm 62 and remember growing up, we had glass straws to use when we were sick. And we lived very simply, not so much "stuff".

[@kdhovis8665]

I just turned 59 +1 (lol) and in the 1950s-60s in US we had GLASS soda bottles. As a kid, I was thrilled to return the empty bottles and get the deposit refund!! 😀😀😀

[@daveywaves5325]

We did that in the 70s, and early 80s. I remember getting a dime per bottle.

[@TheMrVengeance]

Yeah, that's nice and all, but when you have to work 2.5 jobs to barely afford a 1-bedroom apartment you don't really have time to sit around in diners. Times change.

[@shiwani329]

Sounds like a wonderful time... Id do anything to have that experience

[@nonyabizness.original]

tip: if you have access to a bit of beeswax, and scraps of cotton fabric, you can easily make your own reusable food wrap, and you can make it with sun energy. grate the beeswax, lay the fabric on a cookie sheet, generously sprinkle with the wax, set in the sun.

[@SavedbyGraceCT]

Yes!

[@kahldrialeighsun1208]

@Vandana Sethiya I like to think of it as an alternative to plastic wrap, or kitchen foil. Though keep in mind, it is not fire/heat safe.

[@Elettra-vc1he]

You cannot wash them with hot water, remember that.

[@vishuBM]

@@Elettra-vc1he but you can always reheat them and make brand new!!

[@ladygrace2741]

Great tip, Thanks ;)

[@kirstine8286]

LOVE your tip about treating people well! I feel like that is one of the less often talked-about parts of choosing to live in an environmentally sustainable way. The way we represent these choices is how people perceive the entire lifestyle. KINDNESS goes a long way! Thanks for the tips!

[@alliwhite3941]

the trash sorting is what we in Germany do before even throwing away. we have seperate bins for plastic and paper and so on, usually even in public and in schools!

[@danielspatz7460]

Was very impressed when I first time visited it! Especially were strange machines for bottles)

[@danielspatz7460]

Arik Leo I suppose in all Western Europe, cause for sure they do it in France and Italy as well. In Slav world we don't have such technology...

[@rubymoon9079]

I love Germany!!! Everything makes sense. We are far behind you guys in Australia :(

[@Pysslis]

Same for Sweden.

[@gracex592]

That's the same for England

[@jengilbert8858]

I started leaving reviews (both positive & negative) on things like Google maps about the packaging used by different businesses. I think it's great for other ppl who are trying to reduce waste to be able to see possible issues before going to the business.

[@ExploringAlternatives]

Great idea! I haven't received any replies to my messages about packaging yet, but I'm hoping that each message is a little seed that might eventually grow :) Thanks for watching!

[@Luumus]

That's a great idea I didn't thought of. I'll do the same. If enough ppl complain about it and if it affects their rating the business will surely change it

[@KarottenKind911]

Wonderful idea! Thank you for sharing!

[@TheIdeabaker]

Jen Gilbert I love this, and while I sometimes mention it, I’ll make a point of always commenting on packaging from now on.

[@yvonnetomenga5726]

@Jen Gilbert - I totally agree with the other commentors that this is a great idea and something that had not occurred to me. Google maps routinely asks questions about accessibility, payment methods, etc., so they will add it if enough people show it's important.

[@raduantoniu]

Thank you for sharing these tips! I wish I has a bulk store in my town. I didn't know about Ecosia either, just installed it on my phone :D

[@spurtydarbhamulla1130]

Omg!! I have been looking for ways to remove lables on the jar my whole life!! Thank for that tip!💗💗

[@tariyahnashalom9076]

I love your calm demeanor. I subbed immediately. I want to make better decisions on this earth but sheesh I can't always take these overwhelmingly high energy youtubers. This is a nice, informative channel with a soothing, calm delivery.

[@bibianaguadalupeislasherre9880]

TariYahna Shalom 🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@angelanichols6244]

I absolutely agree. The calmness is very soothing

[@amysuarez2456]

She’s also not attacking us for not knowing either.

[@arniekins]

Oh just said the same thing!

[@KyrstOak]

Do the people in the videos you usually watch _not_ have a calm demeanor?

[@creationslandscapedesigns]

What I really enjoyed about living a minimal waste, zero-waste lifestyle is the amount of money I've been able to save.

[@thelissoway6758]

Yes zero waste can be more expensive (going to different stores to get non plastic) but its worth it. And because i only buy what i actually need instead of impulse shopping and using shopping as something to do then im saving even more.

[@sidneyboo9704]

AMEN to that. I needed dried basil. The jar basil was 3+ dollars and I got basil from the bulk and it cost me .14 cents.. It all adds up!

[@SavedbyGraceCT]

Consumerism mentality wastes loads of money. Stop buying junk and see the savings! Savings both financial and to the environment.

[@summer6550]

Never would have thought of taking my own containers for leftovers when eating out. It may seem weird/awkward but it's a great idea. Even if the place uses compostable packaging it's still saving a box or two.

[@pandapower5902]

Exactly. I realized I should be going this recently. It’s actually not awkward at all and the waiters really appreciate it!

[@Eddie-ud4bb]

I always bring glass / tupperware to restaurants.. farmer markets... merchants usually are delighted

[@TheGillianReed]

I really love what you said about being a friendly activist. I find that people often will lecture/rant when speaking with those who don't have the same eco-conscious practices rather than educate in a helpful and constructive way. Thank you!

[@motherdaughtersister]

Thank you so much for sharing this helpful information WITHOUT being preachy!! You presented your ideas beautifully.

[@natalia-qb4fr]

totally agree!

[@kaylamorey573]

LOVE ecosia! It's been my primary browser on my phone for almost a year!

[@dreamlive9726]

It's very good but I prefer Lilo.org. It's same but for a lot of different friendly organisation

[@kaylamorey573]

DreamLive I hadn't heard about that one. I will definitly look into it, thanks for the tip :)

[@rehamahsan1234]

kayla morey I also just checked it out and I think it is super awesome

[@ImOldandSoAreMyBooks]

I have never heard of it before, but everyone here seems to love it! Thanks for leaving your comment!

[@doginasweater.3861]

Duckduckgo is good to plus your info isn't sold. :)

[@artaxelis5314]

I like how calm, informative and kind you sound. I’ll be sure to include these too slowly but surely. My sister has been freaking out about global warming harming the planet and her fear triggered me to start looking into being a part in helping create less damage to the world, mostly for her.

[@widows_son]

I just found this video, and I absolutely love all the tips and tricks you discussed. It’s humbling seeing someone else who is so passionate about because eco friendly and wanting to help the environment!! You’ve gained another follower in me! Keep up the amazing work girl, much love.

[@Inlieuofsue]

For produce bags, I used my old tshirts and made my own. I used existing seams and just cut out a large square and sewed shut the open ends but leaving one open end. For the last open end, I folded the opening over the rubber band and sew it in to where you can't see it. It makes for a fun thing to do while watching TV or with the kids and gives you unique, cool produce bags (for super cheap/free). For to-go food at restaurants, always have your own containers for to-go. I often take a couple containers to my favorite restaurant and ask for my order (as if I'm eating in). Then, when the food comes, I simply package the order myself and go. It takes about the same time waiting for the food and you get the hang of it. And if you stay friendly and try not to make a mess, you may inspire others!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I do the same thing and it also eliminates clothing waste!

[@catherinecorry8807]

This is great! Have you thought of just asking them to package the food in your reusible bags to not waste water (because they wouldn't have to wash the dishes after pick up)

[@litzplummer1157]

@@catherinecorry8807 It depends on food safety regulations where you go. Many places do not allow them to pack the food in your containers because they cannot wash them for you, and anything brought in by the consumer is considered potentially contaminated. They cannot risk the liability of bringing that into the kitchen area. What you do with it once it has been served to you is your business, so the dirty dishes generated by this method are a sacrifice to the greater good.

[@stoverboo]

We cut up an old cotton mesh laundry bag to make produce bags. The fabric is lightweight and we can see the contents through the mesh.

[@RyuujinMaria]

I bought a produce bag made of old lace curtains at a second hand-store. They hardly sell any lace curtains anymore, nobody wants them, so making something useful out of them was the perfect solution.

[@karoosten232]

The produce bag is my newest addition, I grabbed a pack of laundry bags from the dollar tree and they’ve been holding up great!

[@ExploringAlternatives]

Awesome! That sounds like a much more affordable option than the produce bags we bought, although they seem pretty indestructible so that's good. Thanks for watching :) :)

[@vogelvrouw]

Kristen DiPerri thats such a good idea

[@midwestkatie8068]

Kristen DiPerri Great! I have a mesh bag i never use. Yay!

[@HeronCoyote1234]

Thank you. I was thinking of using these. They’re lightweight as well.

[@eileenlester3313]

Great idea!

[@kels101087]

I love how friendly and calm and open you are! It was a pleasure watching this video and you are a breath of fresh air!

[@carlaxnika]

I love that you added to be a friendly activist! It really does make a difference when you let out a more positive and open minded vibe rather than someone forcing their views. I know a lot of people, myself included, that will initially think of ideas in a negative light if the person talking about it is rude.

[@eleventhchakra9321]

I love that this video included cheap options as well as the ones for investment! As a soon to be college graduate, who just put a nice chunk of change into getting an apartment and moving out of the dorm, this is a great reminder that I can still make these changes while on a budget! Thank you - this is my first video and I've already subscribed :)

[@AlphineWolf]

It probably ends up cheaper in the long run

[@WriterOfMany]

Just reuse whatever you buy--old yucky shirt? Use it to clean with and wash with your clothes. Old plastic cottage cheese container? It's Tupperware now. Same for pb and jelly jars. It may not be the prettiest thing, but they all work the same :)

[@jessicagomez1760]

the being friendly part is CRUCIAL! thank you for the video

[@alexandrachampion5148]

I love you two! Your channel and messages are fantastic! Thank you for what you do!

[@TheIdeabaker]

This is such a helpful video. I like your practical and approachable style of sharing. Everyone I’ve told about Ecosia has started to use it...the little counter that tallies the trees planted in real time is encouraging. I’ve been reducing waste for a while, and only last week did the light switch on that I could reuse those hummus and other containers for a while before sending them to recycling. Your advice about contacting restaurants about the plastic and styrofoam containers is excellent, and I’m starting that this month. Thank you for helping us progress in helping the health of the planet, the animals, and ourselves!

[@coolcatcarolena4951]

Thanks for the removal of glue from jar tips! I have a ton of sticky jars I use for juicing. Gonna see if I can get them all sticky free! 😃

[@ExploringAlternatives]

Awesome! I've spent many hours scratching labels off of jars and I was pretty excited to learn about that tip, too. I'm sure any oil would work, not just olive oil. Thanks for watching :) :)

[@daveywaves5325]

I now know what to do with the cheap cooking oil we have left.

[@irene1234]

I read that leaving the jar in warm, soapy water will work off the glue as well. Maybe over night?

[@steinistein8611]

Did it work?

[@thelissoway6758]

Mix vinegar and water in your sink and leave them to soak then no scraping or baking soda needed. The labels will fall right off

[@vegemitegirl1971]

I stopped buying paper towels 12 years ago. I now have approximately 40 kitchen tea towels and am happy for family to use them to clean messes, the washing machine will clean them anyway. I also recently got metal drinking straws to stop buying plastic ones. We're not zero waste but reduced waste. In South Australia, in May 2009, it became law that single use plastic bags are now not allowed. I make my own bags by turning old tshirts into bags (cut off sleeves and hem the bottom). I also make reusable cloth fruit and vegetable bags from tulle but you can use an old lace curtain. My local supermarket (a major chain) has a collection point for allowable bags say from rice and frozen veg, which are then turned into durable things such as soft fall matting in playgrounds and picnic chairs and tables.

[@writerinfact1768]

I applaud you giving up paper towels - I did, for the most part, too. But I draw the line at using cloth to clean up cat hairballs. It's just my personal ick factor, I suppose. And my frequency of purchase has gone from 3 rolls per month to less than 1, since the elder cat with the delicate stomach has died, leaving me with the younger brother.

[@vegemitegirl1971]

Brenda Russell toilet paper for furballs

[@writerinfact1768]

Yeah, see, I've been trying to figure out a less wasteful alternative for TP, too, without resorting to my grandmother's substitute for use in the outhouse: last season's Sears Roebuck catalog (that was WAY better than the previous solution, which was shucked corn cobs). And yes, we still used the outhouse when I was a kid in the 60s. It was closer to the barn, and meant we kids didn't have to go to the house and get assigned more chores.

[@vegemitegirl1971]

Brenda Russell What about a cleaning cloth or rag just for fur balls and just soak them before cleaning. Oh, I'm in rural Australia so we don't have Sears Roebuck here.

[@writerinfact1768]

It's that "ick factor"! And I think Sears stopped with the mega-huge catalog years ago; now they're even closing stores.

[@ruchichoudhary]

We use to live like this till end on 90s in India. Our lifestyle was reduce, reuse and recycle but with advent of mall culture we forget all good things. Now we are just keep on buying plastic and unnecessary things. Good to see you are practically living it and inspiring others too. I like those steel containers we use to take our lunch in school and call it tiffin some call dabba

[@alliemackenzie1575]

Thank you for being so friendly! So many ppl are so intense and guilt trippy about this stuff.

[@evajmd]

What a lovely surprise to see so many filming locations in my home town!! I really appreciate your approach to low-impact living - I find it refreshing, respectful, accessible and sustainable 🌿💚

[@agregory]

All really great tips, especially that last one about being a friendly activist. It's so important for us all to remember that activism sometimes means being polite and approachable.

[@GraceMcGrathEnvironment]

So true.

[@sunnyrays2281]

Great video! Loved your calm and non/judgey presentation. I also really liked the various options so people can start now and feel empowered. Thank you!

[@littlelovablelulu]

Great tips and tricks for beginners! And I love that last point - it's so important to spread more awareness about being more sustainable and eco-friendly in a positive manner!

[@GatorLife57]

Thank you for teaching me how to reduce waste !I am very grateful !Love yall !

[@dinabernal3076]

Awesome video. Thank you for the tip on removing labels and stickiness on the glass jars, that was my favorite.

[@GraceMcGrathEnvironment]

I had never heard about that tip before. It was cool.

[@ThePeasantsDaughter]

A ‘friendly activist’ is the perfect way to put it. Love your gentle approach to this topic.

[@miaglowgirl]

The final tip is SO vital!!!! People remember and associate how you make them feel with anything they learned from you.

[@northroadproductionsvt]

Thanks for all the ideas! I’ve added a stainless straw along with metal cutlery in my bag. Best to avoid straws, but if you need one, metal is the way to go.

[@daijachick]

Say no to single serve instant coffee packs and k-cups.

[@katkat5420]

I read so.ewhere that the inventor regrets it because of all the cups in the landfill

[@andicarusfell8387]

Kat Kat good

[@kherisherpa]

Each one of us CAN make a difference!! Thank you Sistar 🙏🏼

[@annikacazal8385]

Great video! Loved your point about being a friendly activist. This is so important! If someone is too "radical" it might scare other people. One thing I still find difficult is taking foods and drinks with me. When you are using reusable containers, you have to carry them with you, even when they are empty.

[@malva0010]

I really love the "friendly activists" take. I really think that's how you can change someone's mind about environment.

[@bonemomma]

I absolutely love the friendly movement advise!

[@smashinggranol6247]

Thank you, I really appreciate your kind, smart and sustainable tips. Have a WONDERFUL day!

[@k07385]

Hi, recently started trying to cut out plastic and reduce waste. I've always been environmentally conscious in terms of recycling and reusing but now preventing plastic use/zero waste dictates most of my decisions. This video was extremely helpful, thank you so much! I do find it very overwhelming to go to a grocery store now, seeing plastic everywhere. It honestly feels like whatever I do, it can't make a difference. I know that's not true but it's a lot to transition from. I will definitely try to be more of a friendly activist too, inform friends, and email those restaurants. Thank you thank you! You've gotten yourself a new subscriber and a Patreon 😁

[@ellygreening5616]

your voice is so chill i love your videos! and your so informative keep up the good work :)

[@ryleh_horror1683]

Our town and the next town over are banning plastic bags in November! Another town a few hours away also is doing it, we're so excited. I know a lot of people are upset about the switch but I think it's a great start, and it's going to make a difference

[@oddowen250]

LOVE the end part about how people will perceive you based upon how you explain the movement. :) So important because I think you can easily get people excited about sustainability.

[@cliffp.8396]

Your intelligent and empathetic approach to problem solving is refreshing.

[@sunmadien]

Love this video, made the reduced waste life style less militant and more doable

[@GraceMcGrathEnvironment]

It really did.

[@merichbarlas841]

im glad im able to help the planet through ecosia

[@sarasimons294]

Great video. I love that these are so basic to share with those just starting. And I appreciate the "friendly activist" mentality.

[@annpierce9250]

Love this. You are not pushy, have great ideas, and I love the last bit about being friendly to promote the movement.

[@Sandy_Me]

Nice Educational video... When I was a kid I remember using a tin bottle for cooking oil, stainless steel boxes or glass jars to store food, using cloth or paper bags to carry things.. hardly did we know about plastic bags and containters.. It's since 25 years or so we are using plastic like anything and destroying our nature.. I believe spreading awareness won't be enough until Govt. of every country ban plastic and bring in nature friendly alternatives. I would like to see more such videos from you showing how plastic is impacting nature and other methods of using plastic alternatives. Thanks.. Great videos.. Keep it up. Sandeep Kolkata, India.

[@ExploringAlternatives]

Thanks so much for sharing. And for watching! We're very interested in learning and sharing more about plastic's impact on our environment, and ways to reduce our consumption of it. We'll do our best to share more in our upcoming videos :)

[@VolcanoEarth]

I remember when milk was still sold in waxed cardboard cartons. Now it's exclusively in plastic, even the little half-pint cartons I remember from school are now tiny hard plastic bottles. :(

[@writerinfact1768]

I must be a few years older than you, because I remember the milkman delivering glass quarts! But yes, the school lunch milk was waxed cardboard - with a paper straw! Now I use stainless steel straws, and I love them!

[@two_hands7455]

Plastic trash is a problem, but a ban on plastics would also ban flexible plastic straws that are a useful tool for elderly in nursing homes.

[@Sandy_Me]

@@two_hands7455 paper straw or steel straw (reusable) can be used as alternative

[@meghanjeanbu]

Thank you for this video. I really learnt a lot without feeling overwhelmed!

[@brandireber918]

I adore you two and your channel. I thank you for every video you share.

[@virginiaholliday6952]

Thank you so much for posting this and for all the information! You're doing really important work!

[@BonesBoothship]

This could've gone on forever and I would've just happily continued watching. This is very helpful! Thank you for making this video it was really educational and makes me think what I am doing wrong as an individual everyday and gives me a solution on how to improve. xoxo Lis

[@TXGranny2]

Great video, very informative! Thank you for sharing!! ❤️

[@howdytherestranger2139]

Tysm for the tip on the labels of jars! I reuse my jars all the time (I like to call it my functional collection) and some of them had stubborn label glue that I just could not remove... now I can!

[@Lashlove16]

Thanks for being so nice about it and educating us with simple alternatives. It’s all about Baby steps

[@jupiter0jupiter]

Great video! My partner and I have adopted some of these zero waste ideas recently. Our reusable produce bags always get comments at the checkout at the grocery store. But you are so right, when you're friendly and engaging about this stuff other people are really open to it

[@ExploringAlternatives]

haha oh yeah, people love the produce bags! They start a lot of really positive conversations which is always nice. It can sometimes feel like we're up against an impossible task all by ourselves, but then conversations like that remind us that many of us want the same things. Thanks for watching :) :)

[@splashpit]

Tote life !

[@FKBUSH1]

splashpit lol the bears ;)

[@dcchiasson5991]

I recommend getting an insulated done. Besides keeping liquids hot or cold for longer, they won't sweat and leave water stains everywhere.

[@HappyFarmsLa]

Louisiana here. I have had cashier's roll their eyes at my reusable bags many times. I explain that they are earth friendly and also easier to carry!

[@osuushiza8]

Well, holy crappos! Y'all DO have a movement going!!! We must help spread this great info & these awesome videos! Thx4 sharing!!! ♥

[@ash785lo]

It is extra effort to reduce waste but you know what... its for a greater cause and teaches us to live by principles and to think outside of ourselves and consider the footprint we leave on our planet... which is currently deteriorating. This is awesome.

[@LizDance13]

Rewatching this again today. I'd love to see more like this on your channel. Love all the videos but these are great and very helpful!

[@veganworldpeace2649]

Thank you! Great tips and links.

[@Arbie812]

Exceptionally helpful video. Thanks so very much!

[@daywalkerin]

I really liked your video, you talked in a good, fast, but still relaxed pace, so I didn't have to skip any part of the video. You presented your suggestions in a very respectful way to the viewer and encouraged to encounter others with the topic in a positive manner - I agree completely! I already live fairly low waste, but there's always so much to learn. Thanks for the great video!

[@jpswearingen]

I have recently started to audit my carbon footprint. I never thought to look into bulk buying, I love the tips for budget friendly ways to start out. Thank you!!

[@ArtByEmilyHare]

This is so great. I’m baffled by why there are any thumbs down? This can only be a good thing for all of us!

[@nssdesigns]

This is all very good and I'm in on ALL levels BUT the problem here where I live in Scandinavia is a high percentage of meats, fruit and vegetables are packed in 1-2kg plastic bags. Meat/fish is the same, styrofoam bottoms with plastic film or vacuum packed plastic tubs... cheeses are packed in plastic, soaps, water... 99% of everything is packed in plastic of some sort. Does using a cotton shopping bag 'save the world'? We should stop super markets selling products in plastic period. I will separate all my waste and dispose of it as best I can by recycling (as we already do) but we need to get to the root of the problem. When I was a child in the mid 70's we did a lot of local shopping and all the vegetables were hand picked and put into brown paper bags... the butcher next door wrapped fresh cut meat into waxed paper. Today due to EU standards, longer life shelf life and the MOUNT information and branding needed to tell the consumer what they are purchasing is all printed on plastic and packed accordingly. So it's really hard to not bring the rubbish home in the first place. I really wish we didn't have any plastic any where. I'm a diver and I see enough of the rubbish in the sea.

[@svbrina]

Paul Hitchman Try eating less meat and dairy (which is terrible for the environment, even before its packaging is considered) and instead purchase more beans and lentils in bulk or the largest bag available. Even things like tofu or plant-based meats that come in plastic packaging are more environmentally sustainable than it’s animal-based counterpart. It’s also quite the bonus that plant-based alternatives are kinder to the animals and our health! 😊

[@Sarahlenea]

You should write to your shop / supermarket to ask them to provide more products in bulk or unpackaged. There are more and more zero waste shops in the EU and there is no technical difficulty to provide at least dry food in bulk (like pastas, rice, lentils, beans, etc.). No reason to pack vegetables in plastic either. It's more difficult for sensitive products like meat or fish and most supermarkets won't be willing to take any health risk in Europe, but your local butcher might.

[@nssdesigns]

Sarahlenea I think the shop owner (massive corporate giant) has little or no control how the products are wrapped when they are delivered. Let's just hope there's a general trend to get rid of plastics all together...

[@Sarahlenea]

of course they do! I asked one shop (part of a big Group, like Carrefour) to provide an option without packaging for some dry products and allow ppl to bring their own container to buy cheese, quiches, and so on (they were putting it in paper + a plastic bag before that) , and they did it. They can put a lot of pressure on their providers and it's very easy for them to bring these changes if they feel some consumer might be interested. I just wrote a letter underlying how profitable this would be for everyone, and they called me back a week after and did it.

[@nssdesigns]

Sarahlenea plastic is absolutely everywhere but let's hope it's a vanishing packaging solution.

[@brihow24]

Incredible video. I'm pretty much at the very beginning of a zero-waste journey. I've started to use reusable bags every time I grocery shop and once my box of ziploc bags runs out I'll be switching over to just using reusable containers. This video gave me a bunch of new ideas to put in place!

[@chantaldes]

we made a lot of changes over the year and im proud to see that we use a lot of the options you mentioned.

[@kariwick-InnerPeaceCoaching]

Love the low waste suggestions. I do all of these, so bring on more! Like you - I use people’s curiosity about my reusable containers to talk about my desire to produce as little trash as possible. Kari

[@ExploringAlternatives]

So happy to hear that we're on the same page! If you have more tips, please share them! We're always looking to reduce more if we can. Thanks for watching :)

[@audreymm1778]

I love Ecosia!!!! Ive been using them for almost a year!!!

[@EntertainmentWatch]

Love these ideas! Thank you so much for sharing, great video!

[@clareelizabethroberts9903]

I’ve been using ecosia for about 7 months now! Loved the video! Just starting to jump on the reusable items bandwagon, looking forward to finding some nice stainless steel containers, reusable bags and wax wraps and I’m already reusing glass jars as much as possible ❤️ will be subscribing for more!

[@pinkysworn]

Good tips! I stumbled across Ecosia when I saw a random zero waste video from someone I don’t even follow. Seemed really cool, so I downloaded it and am trying to get into the habit of using it more regularly. I love shopping at Bulk Barn. I don’t have one in my town, but when I’m in a bigger centre, I try to stop in. You can get so many bulk and unpackaged goods there! I even found a shampoo/conditioner bar that I love because it was unpackaged and isn’t heavily fragranced. It’s just a simple and clean bar.

[@ExploringAlternatives]

I didn't know that Bulk Barn had shampoo bars, that's really cool! I wonder if it's the one made by that soap company in Guelph. I heard they're starting to allow people to bring their own reusable bags and containers which is pretty exciting :) Thanks so much for watching!

[@pinkysworn]

Exploring Alternatives I’m not sure of the company that makes it, since it was package free and I bought it a while ago. It lathers up really nicely! They had lots of options for bar soaps and bulk liquid soaps too. And yeah, they started a reusable container program with their own branded jars and reusable bags, and you can also bring your own containers. It seems pretty successful so far. Didn’t take long to roll out to all stores after they did the test run with only certain stores in each province.

[@airari24]

You can always make Ecosia your default browser. I did that and it was much easier to get into the habit of using it

[@silvergarcia9897]

@@airari24 This! And on mobile where my chrome browser was I replaced it with the ecosia browser so out of habit I would click in that spot and it would just open the app up without having to look for it or think about it

[@ohdannyboy4727]

this is smart. If you use/invest money in stainless steel/glass food storage, it also gives you gear good for camping. Especially those folding metal utensils.

[@lolu4487]

People like you is what we need in this world!

[@xx011]

Excellent video! I already know/do these but I still enjoyed these tips, the way you presented variety of ways to people in different situations. 💚

[@GraceMcGrathEnvironment]

Great tips, especially the last one about being friendly.

[@RVingLiveTheDream]

Great Ideas. Thank you for sharing 😎

[@ExploringAlternatives]

Awesome, thanks so much for watching!

[@higoten1993]

i'm planning to recycle my plastics (*other than #1 & #2) into diesel

[@precievy5752]

Thank you for this! This is a great video. Best I've found so far.

[@kaycieromano2689]

I love Ecosia! Glad to see it talked about in this way!

[@carolinavaz-pires890]

For the labels on the jars, I definitely recommend using a hair dryer on them! Just use it directly on the label with some distance and the glue will melt, so you'll be able to push it easily. Less water needed! Keep it up with the good tips :)

[@xxcupcakeyyxx3600]

TIP: reusable produce bags are also a great thing to upcycle. I made mine out of some mosquito net I had lying around and they work a charm.

[@sellyourhomenowbook]

love love love your diplomacy. nice tips.

[@krystalnguyen7942]

Thank you so much for sharing. After watching your video, I felt so inspired and motivated to part-take! Your video inspired me so much that I emailed Ulta recommending them to explore other bagging options. I've been noticing those orange plastic bags in my house. I thought about reaching out to Ulta for while, but never act on it afraid it was too much work and they would never take me seriously. Now that I did, I felt great.

[@IsraelPlata]

Thank you for making a difference

[@cinderellaylos7enanos292]

Excellent tips to save the planet.....

[@JayKughan]

thanks for telling us about Ecosia. I never knew they existed. I immediately downloaded it & shall be using it moving forward

[@lexthanexpected]

“friendly activist” love it

[@suemivc]

I’ve started reusing all the plastic stuff I had at home instead of throwing away. For me it’s a good idea to reuse plastic containers, they can be so useful! (sorry for my bad english)

[@LifeBetweenTheDash]

Loved the simplicity of your tips. Thx

[@anafindlay1696]

Absolutely loved this!! TY

[@iloveurgirl]

This was really helpful. Thanks a lot :)