I'M DITCHING the TERM ZERO WASTE...what's next?

[@SustainablyVegan]

* Hey Everyone, even though I am losing the term ZERO WASTE this does NOT mean I am giving up on my zero waste ideals at all. In fact I am incorporating all my zero waste ideals AND more to make a more well rounded movement that encompasses lots of different aspects of Environmental Activism. This is a turning point for my activism and I intend to fight harder to the planet, the animals and people in it *

[@Ashley-fv6jk]

I'm with you!!

[@klaraeickhoff7472]

Just some more praise; I love how much time and research you have put into your videos! I wish you all the best and thank you again ❤️🙏🏼

[@mariellerajasaare4348]

I really like the way this zero waste lifestyle is evolving to a bigger and more positive movement such as "a low impact movement" because guilt is never a good emotion and when so many people are doing little things to be more sustainable in their lifestyle then feeling guilty all the time about the things that are hard to change is never good. As you said, it should be about positively changing your habits towards a more sustainable lifestyle and not beating oneself up, if totally zero waste lifestyle is not possible. Although me and my family is not vegan, I am thinking quite a lot about how I can be more sustainable in my everyday life. If it just means that we have eaten all of our supper so that nothing goes to waste and that we haven't bought the next plastic toy for my children while shopping for groceries then so be it. I have done my best in that moment and I as an individual am explaining my kids why it is important to be kind to your environment.

[@jjay6432]

Phew😮😓 I hear you.👍

[@KristelRocha]

Bravo. I also followed the zero waste movement and in the last few months I've realized that it is not the movement for me, of course many of the ideals of the movement I love, but I am in favor of a more realistic movement. I have been zero waste for a year and besides finding things that I love, I also found a lot of stress and pressure for not fulfilling expectations. I have a blog in Spanish and these last months have been very difficult for me because I do not know how to share ideas of the movement if I am no longer 100% convinced of it. I love your idea of the new movement, I think it was just what I needed at the time I needed it. You go girl!

[@OceanPancake]

The term zero waste is truly misleading, low waste is a much better way to go. You go girl for continuously trying to teach and spread eco friendly love.

[@justryan2070]

I have called it Zero Intent Direct Waste since I started. I produce no waste on purpose, none directly and do not stress about waste produced by others. I have no control over that and I recognize that I need to focus on direct waste I do have control over while trying to change the waste from the source. The strongest option we have is to refuse to buy products that lead to waste until these companies are starved for money. Let them starve until they decide to get a cut of the market again by producing zero-waste friendly products or let them go bankrupt for all I care.

[@carolbonnett7409]

I thought the same thing, low waste is a better term to use. ;)

[@louisespiteri5587]

I have been living a low-impact, vegan lifestyle for a few decades now, and I applaud your decision. Zero waste is not realistically obtainable; even if you shop in bulk, for example, and use your own containers, you may not be bringing waste into your home, but a lot of waste is generated by the bulk store (transport, packaging, etc.). When you hear zero wasters wondering whether they should be taking medication because it comes in plastic, you know that we've gone too far. I have always believed in doing what I can to reduce my environmental footprint, and to reduce my consumption and generation of waste. One should encourage and celebrate these little steps, as they all add up.

[@sandramendoza4488]

Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better. MAYA ANGELOU

[@SustainablyVegan]

Thank you these words really hold true!

[@elizabeth.n1187]

Oh my goodness. I not only loved this I NEEDED it. I have had literal panic attacks because I just feel like with a baby, husband, and dog I'm never doing ENOUGH. Example bought a safety razor, diva cup, bamboo Tooth brushes. Had plastic in the box and cried over my huge failure. We ALL need to remember all we can do is our best and prioritize why we make our decisions. Thank you for this. ❤🌎🙌

[@MrDiasJoana]

Elizabeth Nickle omg...😔😖

[@MyGreenCloset]

Love this so much!! 💚 Thank you for sharing your thoughts! It bothers me how "zero" implies a level of perfection to reach, but the reality is no one can be perfect. I don't think guilt and judgement and worrying about perfection ultimately helps us make long-term changes. Instead focusing on the areas where we can have an impact and celebrating our "wins" I think is more positive and lasting. :)

[@anotherdirtpoet]

As a vegan that lives in an area with barely any vegan options, I constantly felt guilty for buying packaged vegan foods. It made me very frustrated because I saw so many people on instagram fulfilling the "zero waste" ideal by purchasing meat and dairy products in stainless steel or glass containers. It made me feel like my efforts towards reducing my environmental impact were not good enough because I still bought a few items with packaging. Thank you so much for initiating this movement :)

[@clairehiggins7120]

Nicole B you have nothing to feel bad about, being vegan has a bigger positive impact on the environment then anything else 😀

[@Shelbizleee]

I'm with you 🌎✌

[@RazorwireRose]

Thank you so so much for mentioning disability and the barriers it causes. I’ve been working on a new area each month to reduce my waste, but I’m on life saving medicine that causes so much packaging waste and it’s so frustrating! Ive had so much guilt about so much metal and plastic packaging that I’ve had to bin because I have no choice about taking them. I’ve reduced so many other areas of my life - so to hear from someone I respect so much that my effort still counts has been a huge weight off of my shoulders. Thank you!

[@ThatLittleTexanWoman]

Remember "people before things". Your health matters because YOU are more important than impressing a movement. Just make changes where you can. If we all made the changes that we CAN make, then we make room for things that cannot change but are nevertheless absolutely vital - like medical care that requires some necessary waste to maintain cleanliness.

[@VoodooHannah1]

Thank you so much for this. I have a disability (chronic medical condition), and it's really disheartening to see that, no matter how many sustainable swaps I make, my bins are always full of medical waste. There is no way to reduce this. This new way of looking at it is making me see that, although my existence causes a footprint of medical waste on the world, I am the best, most sustainable version of myself I can be. x

[@ThatLittleTexanWoman]

People before things! Your health matters and there is a very valid need for disposable medical items to keep infection risks down. Don't feel bad about your medical waste. Your health is more important than "zero waste". Really, if everyone just merely lowered (rather than eliminated) their impact I think we would be fine as a world.

[@alecwinner]

If I could give this a dozen more likes i would, this makes me, a disabled and poor person, feel so much more accepted and makes the movement so much more accessable. You're right, every little thing does help, and that sense of perfectionism was turning me away from really diving into the zero waste movement, but it'd never totally clicked that yeah, since every little bit helps, it's okay that I need to buy pre-packaged foods once in a blue moon when my hands are hurting so bad making dinner makes me cry, and yeah, taking the bus may not be perfect but it's better than driving a car. This really made me want to try harder to reduce my impact, because even though I'll never be 'perfect' on less waterbottle is one less waterbottle, regardless if the person not buying it never buys one, or just avoided it this one time.

[@annaalm3395]

I never liked the term zero waste because nowadays there is no zero waste life. for me its less waste. Love the term "Low impact movement" :)

[@matterstorm6733]

I'd like the term "high positive and low negative socio-ecological impact" better because it encompasses that we can do something good, too - but it is too long of a sentence :D

[@yejineun8266]

Thank you so much for making this vid. You made me realize how much I've been feeling frustrated when I end up wasting something or seeing someone not considering wasting. Whenever I had to encounter those situations which is quite often as a person living in S.Korea, I felt hopeless and helpless. Like you said, the term of Zero waste makes me more focus on negative experience that I couldn't achieve what I wanted to achieve. From now on, I'll focus on positive experience of eco friendly lifestyle so that I can spread my love towards alternative, sustainable lifestyle to others, so everyone can make small changes to make a big change. Always appreciate your contents. Xoxo

[@MadeleineOlivia]

Couldn’t agree more and totally on board with you on this 💪💪💪

[@SustainablyVegan]

[@dawngorman6062]

This really resonates with me! I think that we need to honor all of those that started the zero-waste movement and brought this way of living into the mainstream, but with any movement, there are typically different segments that address different ideals, paths etc. Zero waste sounds very intimidating in so many ways, and while it has always professed to be a movement that is about the goal, we are humans, and in order to live, we have to make some waste. And if you have pets and kids, it's really challenging. I love that you are looking at the movement and seeing how it affects others. The Low Impact Movement is so much more inclusive and less threatening to people who want to try to make changes. There are so many things to consider when we talk about minimalism, sustainability and veganism, important movements that are sometimes sold as elite lifestyles of the rich and famous, and that impression keeps us from connecting and growing. It is so important that everyone finds a way to connect to a love for the earth, animals and fellow humans in a way that creates a desire to want to protect and honor all aspects of life, no matter one's background or economic status. I love what you are doing and am so excited to see where it goes. I am also so grateful that veganism is a part of this story, as many zero-wasters and others who identify as environmentalists, and even feminists aren't making the animal connection. Hopefully, the Low Impact Movement will help draw attention to some of these issues as well. I look forward to going on this journey with you. I have been following you for more than a year now and love where it has taken you and me. I am 57 years old, and when I began my vegan transition, you were one of the first people I started following. We all have so much to learn from each other, and you are so brave to share all that you are learning with all of us. Peace, and namaste, Dawn

[@SmoneC]

I like to call what I'm doing in my life "Waste Conscious" you make changes in your life to reduces as much waste as possible financially and environmental. I really like this word because there are some areas in my life that being zero waste is nearly impossible. I'm referring to my hobbies that help relax me. Food and clothing I have found pretty easy to minimize my waste and some things I have already been doing just because I'm cheap and don't want to buy brand new clothes from some fast fashion store.

[@schlaflied5245]

I love this so much. Thank you! I can identify with low impact so much better. Zero waste always scared me and made me feel like that's so unachievable. Low impact sounds so much more positive and much easier to incorporate into day to day life and really includes all areas of life already in the wording and not "just" the trash aspect. It leaves you with a much better feeling and motiviation for achievements, whereas zero waste rather leaves you feeling guilty. How far just a term can go! Also I feel to mention and stand for in front of people who aren't yet at all in the scene it's a much better word. Already a couple of times when I mentioned zero waste living to friends they responded in a defensive manner, being like "oh these hippies".. whereas I feel like low impact can be understood much easier, also without being associated with something dogmatic. Keep up the great work, you're doing amazing!

[@kawaiiadventure1202]

I love this! I'm new to "zero waste" so I've been dealing with a lot of what your talking about. When I started I wanted to dump all my plastic stuff and buy glass but I realized that was even more wasteful. Every get started video just tells you what to buy not what action you need to take. Thanks for being real and teaching me all about minimal waste.

[@Dan97K]

Long-term listener here and absolutely loving where you are going with your work Immy. Low impact on environmental resources and a high positive impact on the community and the wider international sphere! I was reading a study just the other week that once people make just one small, positive change in their lives, they are so much more open to continuing to make changes, correlating perfectly with the #lowimpactmovement Keep on motivating people and keep on inspiring me, much love from Australia

[@minhlede]

man i love your thoughts around this. i feel the same way about every change i made in the past years. for example i've encountered some very extreme reactions from my closest friends because of my veganism. by my calculation i'm 98% vegan and that's ok too but. i always tell people to change if they want to. even if the steps are little at the beginning they're building towards something big and courageous. the way you're going is def the right way and prevents extremism and hate against each other and keeps the conversation between 2 parties going.

[@glimmergurl94]

I AM SO HAPPY this is finally happening. I've been stressing so much trying to reduce my waste/never feeling like what I do is enough and its hard to get my friends on board when I always make it seem like its all or nothing. Thank you for all your labor and work you do for the community and for making it more inclusive/recognizing capitalism's large role at not enabling us to be less wasteful.

[@georgieowen8470]

Immi, I can't stress enough how heart warming it is to listen to such a caring and supportive person. I love your drive to continue to implement solutions to such important issues and your ability to see the world from a wider angle (it is very easy to forget people/animals/nature when we don't see them first hand). I am so excited for this low impact movement and completely agree with your views on moving away from zero waste. Keep inspiring the world to be and do that little bit better everyday, I know I will be :-)

[@fionablackmoore8035]

Lol this became a long one but I just need to say: I'm so here for this rebranding and I've really loved all your content lately! It's so important to acknowledge that we all have different abilities to reduce our impact due to economic backgrounds etc. Nothing puts me off more that influencers who claim zero waste is super easy. No! It's hard, and for most people it will be a long process to change their lifestyle so drastically. It's so refreshing to see you focus on the important stuff like frontline communities too, because this movement has become a little too much of a competition about who has the coolest zw aesthetic and lifestyle when it should be about increasing awareness on environmental issues and empower each other make changes! We need to have the bigger picture in mind, we need to talk about politics more, we need another perspective than the young, white, western, middle class woman's!

[@AshleyNaoWellness]

I really enjoyed this video! The low impact movement has been the direction I’ve wanted to go towards for a really long time, and I honestly did feel stressed about calling myself “zero-waste” because I knew that it just wasn’t feasible for me yet. I really appreciate this😊🌱

[@mikahlactpo]

LOVE THIS!!! There shouldn't be so much pressure on people who are actually trying to make a difference - that makes people discouraged and quit!

[@naturallyemi]

Is anyone putting pressure on you?

[@racheltimokhina9221]

I love that you are constantly evolving in your views -- always growing! It's a great to hear from people who are willing to change!

[@Inlieuofsue]

Some folks go too deep (like, omg, farts pollute the air!) and get overwhelmed. Yes, it's best to reduce what we have to recycle and send nothing to landfill but, in the end, it's your journey not the internet's. Personally, the audacious goal of achieving Zero Waste taught me so much about my priorities, my consumption, and the many opportunities to make a positive impact through my daily choices. We have an abundance of happiness to feel and no room for perfectionism (and the associated guilt). Perfectionism is that fiend who wants to reduce our courage for action and close us off from that inspiration which brings so much joy.

[@daisycoombs1656]

this is a wonderful message! I've been thinking for a long time that there needs to be more inclusivity and more appreciation of each individual effort. it's especially refreshing to acknowledge that the worst damage is done by corporations.

[@XiaoZhen1234]

I think the low impact movement can create a more positive and encouraging way to get people to reduce their footprint in the world. What I found is that, for people in the community, who are already passionate about zero waste or having low impact, it takes little effort to push us to be better, but for others who are not so keen, pushing of changing their lifestyle to be zero waste can be really hard and often they just don’t bother. And this is what I’ve experience personally with few friends and family members. So I think having low impact movements, that encourages small continuous changes, can be really beneficial. I do hope that you can talk more or open forum / discussion about being low impact while being a meat eater / fish eater / vegetarian, and / or living in developing country or city. I personally struggle with zero waste because in my country it’s quite difficult to find ways that helps make zero waste easier (i.e. bulk store is hard to come by, tap water is not save to drink, vegan options are difficult to find or expensive, public transportation is not save / bad quality). I’m hoping with having an open discussion we can find ways to make low impact movement applicable any where in the world.

[@terryutanpitak2191]

Be proud of the great intention you put into this movement, be it zerowaste or low impact. You need to feel rewarding for what you have already achieved, but improve it to engage more people because the process of CHANGE should include as many people as it can and not to EXCLUDE ourselves from the majority. Big CHANGE occur among the majority. Thanks for starting the movement. In Asia, we don't even have this movement yet. And it is so very difficult just to lower a tiny impact. We talked about reducing plastic bags a decade ago. It does not scratch a bit of the conventional consumption. We have not gone beyond reducing plastic bags, let alone foam packaging, straws, and the whole nine yards. Despite the hot weather that allows us to produce a lot of things from fruit waste and use it as natural soap, detergent ,cleanser and garden fertilizer for zero money, hardly any people do it. So...Be Proud of yourself and the community you guys have created.

[@Sewmuchtodo]

I loved this video. There is so much tension in each movement where there are people within each community (zero-waste, minimalism, vegan, etc.) who seem to have rules that EVERY person has to follow in order to be considered as part of that movement. It does more harm because they push people away from the movement by making them feel like it’s too much effort or they’ll never reach that goal. It’s borderline hate when they can be praising people for doing their best instead of alienating them for doing something “wrong”.

[@lindatait5326]

Brilliant! This makes me feel hopeful rather than overwhelmed. It shows just how powerful words are. Keep on keeping on xx

[@lilmonster307]

This echos what I have been feeling about the lable "zero waste." I'm with you. Thanks for the video

[@tlchallinor]

You continue to inspire me. Your channel is absolutely my favorite on KZbin so thank you for continuing to post new videos. I am in Dallas, Texas and I don’t know anyone that lives this lifestyle. Your videos along with other youtubers have made me think of starting my own channel so I can grow a “low impact” community here.

[@sandraahmed3963]

Hi Tracey! I'm in Dallas and trying to live Zero Waste/Low Impact as well. It would be so nice to start a group or something to connect all of us so we can trade tips and tricks on how to lower our impact.

[@stephanyol]

I'm in Dallas too!

[@tlchallinor]

Hi Sandra and Staphany! Sandra, that’s a great idea! Should we do a Facebook group?

[@tlchallinor]

Kara Thomas - Oh awesome! I’ll go check her out :)

[@sandraahmed3963]

Yes, I think that would be a great start. Add me on FB (SABurmaster), and we can PM to get it started.

[@charlotte6070]

This was so validating to hear! Thank you for making this video

[@ketgrace6423]

Preach this! I find frustration as a minor trying to reduce my impact because I am not in control totally of what my parents buy for our house and buy for me. I have to use my own money to buy things like reusable pads. I have started moving my family in really good directions though. For other minors, some good little things you could get your family to do: -use cloth napkins instead of buying paper ones -unplug things/ turn off lights when not in use -try to encourage a compost bin in a backyard if you have one -same idea but encourage a garden of your own! fresh food tastes good and no produce stickers ! -at carry out restaurants ask for no plastic silverware and/or keep plastic silverware to reuse in lunches (i take them in my lunch bag for school) I could make the list so much longer- there’s infinite ways to reduce your impact, find which ones work best for your lifestyle and try them out

[@SustainablyVegan]

You are so inspiring and such an important part of this movement !! Really appreciate your support and super proud of the work you're doing xx

[@Joesy015]

Yes you are always so fantastic and I adore every video you put out!!!! It makes beyond more sense to call it “low impact” rather than “zero waste” since there is no such thing as truly zero waste living. Sending love to you from NYC and I’m always happy seeing your videos because I know someone has similar beliefs as I do so I feel less alone when it seems as if not a soul around me understands me.

[@lorenalara2306]

I have to tell you that you are a very smart and emphatic human :) I am starting to waste less, and i am 33, so probably because of my age i already know that changes have to be as subtle or fast as we can implement them in our lives, because we don't want something good for the planet to become something bad for our mental health. I went completely vegan from one day to another 7 years ago, that process was not as challenging for me as this one is, i have kids that now i have to teach, show etc, it makes it a little bit more complicated so i am being kind with my self and doing as much as i can and implementing one or two things at a time. I think the Low impact movement it resounds much more with what you do. I appreciate the time you take teaching others what you know :)

[@klaraeickhoff7472]

YES! This is wonderful! When I say zero-waste they think of Bea Johnson which is correct but she follows a different path involving meat and less ethically sourced products than you do. I follow you as an example and use you for inspiration when trying to live as eco-friendly as possible. You incorporate more ethics and most importantly veganism into your life since it is also being conscious as a consumer. All in all, causing the least amount of harm possible as a consumer to living beings and minimizing one's carbon-footprint. This isn't zero-waste as Bea founded it. I am so glad we can now have a label that is more consistent with our lifestyle :) I really appreciate all you do and love your content! Thank you :D

[@carissawong2451]

Yes, I love the environment but it's so difficult doing zero waste when almost everything in this world has waste. I think 70-90% is fantastic and even reducing it 50% is great. Don't limit your life on Earth but don't limit the Earth's life too. I hate labelling! People cringe when they hear zero waste or veganism because they think of extreme, overbearing people. I believe we all should just be the best people we can be. Don't feel guilty, your carbon footprint is so much better than many!

[@Carolina-jx3tc]

Yessss I'm loving the new channel direction! I definitely relate more to the term "low impact" than "zero waste" ❤️

[@Mrsbadgerheart]

I love this! I love the term low impact movement because being a full-time working mother of 2 in a suburb in America, no matter how "green" I am I feel like I can never be zero waste but over the past year my family has been moving towards more a more sustainable lifestyle and more eco-friendly options in our everyday life. For me it started when I finally decided to cloth-diaper my second son. I wanted to do it with my first but was persuaded not to by everyone because it would be "so hard". I LOVE IT! From there we ditched the disposable wipes and little by little have been cutting out disposable things form out lives. Our family of 4 typically does not put out more than one bag of trash in a week but our recycling is always overflowing and we are always looking for ways to cut back even more. While we aren't Vegan I'm cutting back on Animal products (for myself) trying to limit it to one meal per day and your channel has really helped give me ideas on how to curb wastefulness in our home little by little. We plan on starting a vegetable garden soon and start composting at home and I am actually already saving my veggie scraps in the freezer for veggie broth! Anyways! Now I'm rambling and I'm not much for youtube commenting I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate what you're doing and putting out and I am loving learning from you, please keep up what you are doing.

[@Uapa500]

I agree. Talking about "zero waste", taking the term literally can be discouraging, cos it is impossible to completely and purely be zero waste and that can be frustrating. Keep up the good job, as I already said, we're only humans, we can only do our best ☺ it is good to stop something that makes you feel guilty and join something that makes you realise and enjoy the positive steps you take ☺

[@ElizabethOnTheInternet]

Love the idea of donating each week to a different project! Excited to see what change this community can bring about!

[@retablos4496]

I've called my efforts low-waste because I've had a problem with the term "zero waste" from the get go... thank you for all YOUR efforts! ❤️

[@HosCreates]

Retablos me to

[@lisaadamson8972]

I feel that the term 'the low impact movement' is a much better way of looking at it. As a person on a low income with mental health issues it is very hard for me to get to a shop that has zero waste i always felt guilty and ashamed for things i didnt achieve even though i am doing so much to make my footprint on this earth a low one. Thank you for this vid. Much love xx

[@ashleyjane6594]

I love the wording "low impact movement" it's so much more holistic! I always say that with every consumption choice I make I try to go for the option that reduces the negative impact on the health of the planet. So it's about consistent positive decisions rather than perfection. Love your message!

[@mrslawgames9086]

I am loving the low impact term. That seems more achievable and less judgmental. I love that it is about being mindful and doing better. Many people (me being one of them ... I am working on it) can be stopped before they start if they can't be perfect.

[@queeniebaggins3732]

I like to think of my lifestyle as intentional waste reduction....🤔

[@zelayadivina]

I loved this. This was basically my outlook on the movement for my personal self, but you definitely helped refine it for me. Thank you and you still have my support!!

[@StephanieDouglassMusic]

I love what you are doing to include everyone. You should feel proud about what you've done for this community! My question is, what can I do to continue educating those around me about low impact living? How do we increase cohesive education in the general population to help create more sustainable systems locally? Thank you so much for all the work you do and for working to include everyone you reach.

[@MaxBune]

I think this is great :) I have been doing my best to lower my impact on this beautiful planet but it has definitely been a challenge. My son is disabled and requires a lot of medical supplies. This means that everything comes sterilized in plastic and is often made from plastic. But he needs these things to survive and I think it is an important topic in the movement. Not all waste can be reduced to zero. Thanks for another great video😊

[@kylee3639]

i'm only 14 years old and i live with my dad, who doesn't care at all about the environment. i don't blame him since he was raised in a time when these issues were less urgent, but now it's a real problem and i'm trying to do whatever i can and be the change. i've gone vegan almost a year and a half ago, and i'm the only vegan or person who cares about the earth i've ever met. everyone thinks i'm insane lol but i try to educate everyone a little bit when they make comments. love your channel, it's so helpful

[@sarahgregg8943]

Great vid! Love your approach, thanks for being genuine and inspiring. Low impact describes my lifestyle too! Reducing my waste, vegan, growing more of my own food, local, seasonal, walking more, driving less, using a hybrid electric car, buying second hand, ethical and sustainable products, minimising spending, eating at home more, reducing energy consumption, solar panels on my house, composting, avoiding plastic, esp single use, recycling everything I can, repurposing where possible, reusable shopping bags. We clean our home without chemicals, and also use chemical free organic hair/body care and makeup. Next car I buy will Iikely be all electric. I'm also considering installing a filter for my clothes washing machine to minimise synthetic fibres entering waterways and I've begun trying to avoid buying synthetic fibres that will harm marine life. Im always actively seeking ways to minimise my footprint on nature including keeping informed (your channel helps!) and I try to encourage those around me to consider the environment first. Well done on broadening your vision 😉

[@21earlthepearl]

I'm with you! The term zero waste has never quite covered the lifestyle I'm trying to lead. Low waste only covers a small part of a more holistic life, like living simply, eating local/whole/organic foods, appreciation for nature, volunteering for earth-related nonprofits, and making conscious decisions when I need to buy something. Love what you are doing here on KZbin!

[@Samanthajmarie]

I'm with you!!!!! #thelowimpactmovement 🌎🌱❤️

[@sevnhana2898]

I was so mad at myself this weekend. I forgot my reusable bags for the grocery store and then forgot to ask for paper instead of plastic. I felt like a failure leaving the store with plastic bags. Its so easy to feel like a failure, but I know I can do better than this! I don't call what I do zero waste, just due to the fact that I know that I know I am not doing all that I can at this point. I have a lot of ideas and goals, but life/ laziness has been getting in the way. Thank you, you inspire me.

[@FairylandCottage]

Such a loving,understanding, wise human. Keep spreading the love. ❤️❤️❤️

[@simini1837]

Due to an illness in the past I have less energy. I try to be low impact but there are limits, as to groceries I cant walk of cycle to the minimal waste supermarket all the time. I travel by plane sometimes because going by train is too long and exhausting. But you are right: its about small steps and making an effort. I today read an article that Fast fashion shops like H&M are in trouble because millenials want more durable clothing that lasts longer. This made me happy!

[@amandinelrh]

Thank you for your great video! I have been going through the same thinking and I really appreciate you offering a new name to the great movement of reducing our negative impact on our world. Actually just yesterday I got called out I a mean and undeserved way because of the term zero-waste. I love the idea of calling it low impact it's inclusive, more real and allows us to come together and not fight over semantic. I am going to use it if that's okay with you and try to help spread it on my small level.

[@madeleinediperna3771]

Okay, this is the video I've been waiting for in this movement, so much so that I've thought of starting my own channel to speak about the transition to a concept like the one you've suggested, low impact, rather than zero waste! In this movement, I see a lot of perfectionism, snobbery, pseudo science, and shaming! That's not the sort of attitude we want people to have about helping our environment! We want it to be accessible, and we also want people to take it seriously, instead of feeling like a transition is too difficult or too overwhelming. It isn't a contest! The fact that anyone is willing to make changes in their life to reduce their waste is totally huge, because it all adds up and makes a larger difference. There are many out there who don't have the same resources others have, and it's very dependent on your location and ability, and no one should feel shame for not being able to make certain changes. You do what you can and that's amazing! Thanks for this video, you've put into words what's been on my mind for a long time now!

[@joanneh6879]

Hey just wanted to tell you that since watching this and other zero waste channels I’ve had many bouts of frustration due to some options simply not being available to me as I live in country south Australia and where to shop is limited. However, I made my own shopping bags out of old t-shirts, and reuse the bags (not plastic) I already have (after using up the plastic bags we had). We also started making compost out of all the paper recyclables and food scraps and garden pruning which then lead to growing edible plants (they’re still young so fingers crossed!) also we make wood chips from the fallen bark of the gum trees across the road in the reserve, make our own almond milk from a past made from 100% almonds and nothing else and reuse the buckets the past comes in for freezing food, potted plants etc. I make my own cleaning product from orange peels and white vinegar and also use white vinegar in the dishwasher as a rinse aid. Our waste bin (we have 2 large green waste bins and 1 recycling bin and 1 waste bin) now takes twice as long to get full, our recycling bin twice as long and our green bins never get emptied as one is used for the chicken manure and one for collecting pruning for the continual compost.. having said all that.... ahhhh! I need something to replace bleach for cleaning the toilet!!!! I can’t stand it but I haven’t found anything natural that does as good a job. Can anyone help??? Thank you for reading this and thanks for your ongoing efforts to lessen your footprint in this beautiful planet. Oh, and we are nearly meat free! Like soooo close! Cheers, ✌🏼👍🏼🙏🏼💜

[@clairebibby5144]

In the UK it is an impossible task. We just don't have the attitudes to change, on how much plastic and the continuously over spending money on non-essential items. The UK's view point is about buying for convenience, in Germany they have sussed they have less stuff, plastic is recycled and there is a deposit on plastic bottles. Your vlogs are authentic and I have learnt a lot and I am making small changes to my lifestyle - Please keep going!!

[@Calithrade]

I think what you're saying here is so wonderful- it's a great way to let people feel inspired and empowered to make positive changes. Zero waste isn't something that I can do in my life (right now at least) but I'm making serious changes in my life and feel that your Low Impact Movement allows people to be involved however they can =D Thank you so much for being so honest, thoughtful and inspiring! x

[@presentfixations]

Love this! I was just talking with my friend last night about how not only zero waste but most green movements are largely pioneered and dominated by certain people and certain voices telling people how to exist and what they should and shouldn't feel guilty for. It makes it really inaccessible/gatekeepery and daunting for people! There's a lot of ableist language, and inherent classism and racism throughout a lot of the messages that get sent out--you have to have the money to buy these things, you have to have the mental/emotional capacity to get rid of and substitute all of these things and everyone should be able to do this regardless of how much pain they might be in, you have to have access to these things, your house needs to look like this... the list goes on. I'm trans and zero waste has made me question whether or not transitioning was 'okay' for me to do, since the only way I can get hormones is through buying stuff that will inevitably have some plastic. I'm sure I'm not the only person that would have medical reasons for 'failing' to be zero waste. It really is important, I think, for green movements in general to really step away from the shaming and guilting aspect, where people's limitations and situations are taken into account and what's actually happening is that people are encouraging one another and the real pressure is being put on companies and corporations (that actually generate the most waste and pollution) to limit waste, limit the creation of wasteful and toxic products and byproducts. Thank you for addressing the need to become more accessible and realistic and kind! It's the kind of place that I wish more green movements were coming from!

[@SustainablyVegan]

Thank you so much for your comment, it means a lot that you are supportive of the route this channel is taking. The last thing I would ever want is for people to feel alienated and like the movement wasn't for them. Thank you also for sharing a bit of your story, i'm really happy you feel like this is a space you're happy to contribute too. If you ever feel like talking more about representation etc in the movement I would love for you to DM me xx

[@fatima912182]

Zero waste was a bit demotivating for me but I knew that this is a movement where going 50% with it, or 30,or 20 was helpful. I live in a small island with no bulk stores, can't afford a lot of things I see online and giving up plastic completely is impossible for me here. But thanks to you (and other youtubers with this lifestyle) I've been able to make some changes, like no straws, trying to buy stuff that is not plastic, reduce watch I buy in fast fashion, etc. Even if they are few, even if I still use a lot of plastic I feel relieved that I'm able to do something to help...

[@Jacquiandteddy]

I LOVE this video, and agree totally with all you've said. I love your honesty and integrity, and that you take us on this journey with you. The Low Impact Movement really excites me in a way that zero waste didn't. It feels much more accessible and inclusive, and also more human and forgiving in a way. Low impact sums up how I have been trying to live my life for a long time in terms of my outlook but I struggled with it in practice. I love that I can get great ideas from everyone now by just typing in the low impact movement hashtag on Instagram and feel like we're all in this together!

[@XxAnaAnyaxX]

Finally! This is what I've been saying for months! Balance is the word. We shouldn't feel guilty for the things we buy, or the things we eat. We should look at those things and choose the best option and evaluate the real necessity of having them. And if we can't live without it, we should use it until it's end and dispose it correctly. These movements usually creates more stress and it's not the way to live. We only live once, and we also have to enjoy it while we are here. Step by step, change by change: doing what it looks like "less" it's still something and nothing to be ashamed of. Thank You so much!

[@diamondsofsix]

Change and growth is always a good thing. I have felt lately that the zero waste fad (not the movement and not here on this channel) have gotten quite classicist. There was this unspoken attitude of "if you can't afford this expensive razor or canteen you're not doing it right". Making sure to always keep moving, reinventing and coming up with new ideas will ensure that that kind of fads don't stick. Great work, as always :)

[@here4catsandfood196]

You are a huge help and I hope you don't lose sleep at night thinking you have somehow damaged the sustainable living movement. You are awesome and inspirational. I work hard where I am in my life, where I am financially, and where I am geographically to live as low impact as I can right now. I have hope and plans for the future to continue to reduce my waste and consumption in order to live more sustainably. As of right now, I feel like I am doing all I can, but I don't feel discouraged in my efforts. It is great having role models like you to help me feel like my efforts matter and are making a difference! :)

[@tessatsurugaoka8023]

I completely agree! Rather than placing a name on how you live, embrace the little changes you make in your life that benefit you and the environment. I like to tell people that I'm trying to reduce my plastic consumption :) I am far from being zero waste but so happy with my progress.

[@TessaShabram]

That is so awesome you are donating money that you would have otherwise spent on consumer goods. I want to try and do the same! I think a great place to donate to would be women's health clinics (like Planned Parenthood in the US) because it not only helps women, but also the environment. Planned Parenthood provides the education and means to prevent unplanned pregnancies, as well as provide IUD's to women that wouldn't be able to afford it. I know an IUD is not for everyone, but it honestly has been a huge waste saver for me, not having to waste tampons and pads or birth control pill packaging.

[@TimiKomo]

I definitely feel you on this! About 3 years ago, I decided to have a "Minimal Waste" lifestyle. It's the combination of minimalism and zero waste. I'm also plant based. These mindsets are more freeing and lead to greater consciousness.

[@TimiKomo]

Transitioning into a Minimal Waste Lifestyle kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZvSh4eElLR9irc

[@adelynnlim8218]

Your passion and enthusiasm for this movement is infectious. I love coming to your channel and leaving having learned so many new things. When I first got into ZW, you were my go-to role model. When I started feeling pressured by the standards of 'ZW', here you are with a video to tell me that I am not alone. Thank you for listening to your audience and being so inclusive. Lots of love!

[@barb_from_catpolis989]

I totally agree, no waste might be a bit overwhelming term, since it is so.. absolute.. and easy to fail. I much prefer the idea of low impact, since i believe that everything we do, even if it's only skipping paper towels or straws in our drinks, EVERYTHING is better than nothing. Following you already on instagram. Have a great day.

[@SustainablyVegan]

Preach!!! Love this comment thank you for taking the time to watch and to comment :) completely agree with everything you said xx

[@barb_from_catpolis989]

looking forward for more content, love from Slovakia. :)

[@cierrak735]

I live in rural east Texas and a college student. There are no bulk stores near me, and the recycling places only accept metals. I got so discouraged at how little I was able to do. Now I try to make little changes in my everyday life. Using reusable bags, cups, and Tupperware is the biggest thing I'm able to do in my lifestyle.

[@erinaguirre2853]

Thank you! I was introduced to the Zero Waste movement just a couple of months ago and found that it embraced many of the things I had been working on and interested in over the past few years. But I have been frustrated by my lack of options for bulk and other items in non-plastic containers. Low Impact embraces what I can do in my circumstances right now. As more things become available, I can try to be lower impact. Thank you for all your efforts and sharing with us.

[@notthatjones6026]

This is absolutely brilliant! Thank you for this! 💙💙💙

[@Ruknabal]

I've been afraid of even trying to be zero waste, of trying to put a term on any effort to produce less waste, because of the pressure the term puts on me, TBH. When it comes to such things, there's always this voice that says you need to do more, better, faster, to be perfect, always, and that's frightening. I've read your post about the Low Impact Movement last week, and I find it less... stressful, I guess ? It feels more balanced, maybe. Or less urgent, more like a process. Anyways, I like it ^^

[@L0NGWAYT0HAPPY]

You are such an amazing human being! Thank you for being so open and raw. This was really inspiring to watch ♥

[@lesliemcmahon287]

I started watching your videos a couple of months ago and am happy to tell you that you have inspired me to make some changes in the way I live my life but I was feeling guilty about not doing more and for not being perfect. Thank you so much for creating this community!

[@junniperjess1639]

Wow. I'm going to be completely honest here. I literally just came across your channel last week and within half a video, felt like utter trash. I have serious depression issues. 95% of the time, the only healthy food I eat is prepackaged in plastic. I can't describe the amount of guilt this brings me and how much I wish I could change this. Any time I try, I end up wasting food. I buy produce and then never eat it because I simply do not have the energy to prepare it. I keep looking around at stores in my area and just cannot find foods I like to eat in bulk. I live in a high populated suburban/metropolitan area. Lastly, I'm so broke. I can't work because of my mental health and my fiancee works front of house at a restaurant. This video is so important. And so encouraging. I have been trying so hard to find "zero waste" KZbinrs that can inspire me to improve rather than just depress me further and make me feel inferior. I can't thank you enough for this video. I am subscribing in hopes of more content that follows more along this philosophy ❤

[@nicollelagera5993]

Super love this! I'm from the Philippines and it is quite difficult to have a fully zero waste lifestyle because there aren't that many options to purchase things without packaging. I also can relate to the fact that i feel somewhat guilty when i can't fulfill a 'zero waste doing' so this low impact movement helps ease that guilt because it focuses more on positivity and just doing what you can do. Will definitely share this with those close to me :)

[@kateschulte1618]

I've never commented on a KZbin video before, but I have to say that you are the most thoughtful and compassionate person I have ever come across. I cannot thank you enough for doing everything you can to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and loving environment, as well as inspiring others to do the same. I've learned that compassion is contagious and you make me want to do better / try harder. Much love from Portland, Oregon!

[@SustainablyVegan]

Thanks for taking the time to comment :) hopefully I can make my way to Portland sometime (am desperate to go) and you can show me round !

[@kateschulte1618]

Let me know if you ever make it here! :) I would love to show you around!

[@pauscht]

First I was shocked by the title and thought you would stop with your incredible work, but now I´m so thankful! I love this new term. When I think about this I often had a feeling of guilt, when I bought something with plastic. For example I can´t find any plant based milk in glasses where I live and every package in my bin makes me sad. I never thought about my journay in a positiv way, but I´m going to do that from now one. You had a big impact on my life so far, please keep on doing your amazing work. Lots of love from Germany!

[@SustainablyVegan]

Thanks for sticking with it and hearing my out

[@isla_usa708]

I’ve had a lot of health problems, which have forced me to do online school, and that along with relying on my parents leaves my opportunities to make better choices few and far between. A long time ago I adopted a mindset that helps me not feel guilty: “Why impact something negatively if you don’t have to?”

[@c0uc0u]

I knew I would like this video even if the title is "negative". 😊 Really appreciate your channel, it is really relevant and helps me a lot to reduce my waste. Big love from Montréal ❣️

[@SustainablyVegan]

Thanks for your comment :) I really appreciate you and your words

[@emmaolliphant9486]

I LOVE the idea of "low impact" rather than zero waste - it's much more accessible, while allowing people who already do all they can to still do their all, minus the guilt of living up to such an onerous label.

[@theminimalistninja]

I absolutely loved this! Over time I perceived the term "zero waste" as very limiting. It encompasses so little (waste) and leaves so many important parts of lowering one's footprint out (minimalism, veganism, intentional living, frugality). GREAT VIDEO!! :)

[@xiovandijk933]

Totally get you, you are very brave , very authentic & honest.I say "less" "reduced" & "low" waste. I love your inspiration and if only 0,1% would try so hard to be the best they can like you do, the world would start to heal immediately! I mean that from the bottom of my heart.I follow you for a long tome & I hardly comment but you truly have thought me a lot.Very warm greetings from the Netherlands P.S. Thank you for this video :) & I love the new term , you go girl!

[@annemariesamples5582]

I have also had very similar feelings, and I'm grateful to hear you speak about the "zero waste" term. Its a nearly attainable goal for some people, but after a year of seeking this lifestyle, I am still unable to "get there." Partly because I have a large family, and bc I live on a tiny island full of imported goods wrapped in plastic... yay... it is easy to get easy to become discouraged, but Im not a quitter, so I just keep looking for ways to improve! Anyway, THANK YOU, for what you do!!! You are kind, brilliant, and an inspiration!! 💗💗

[@caramelushca]

YES! I think the low impact movement sounds so much better than zero waste and is much more inclusive of people and ideas. Zero waste seems so unattainable to many/most people I think and makes them feel guilty for their choices, even when they have no better choice. I'd love to hear more suggestions and ideas you have about what we can do at a bigger level and influence people in higher positions and company owners to change their ways. Because I feel there's only so much we can do at consumer level, but the real responsibility should be in producers' hands, because they are the ones that can truly change packaging etc. I'm doing my best, but I'd like to not be put in the position of having to give up things that can improve my health just because they come in plastic packaging :(

[@Maya-pn1ik]

I love this x'c it is actually making me emotional right now. I have been needing this for a while now, thank you SV

[@TheVanProject]

Such good points! We just started a "no plastic" journey this month while traveling on the road (but if we had to really explain it it's more of a no disposable/new plastic.. we're not throwing away all of our plastic containers yet so). Which is to say: It's hard to encompass what we try to do with a few words alone. We're all trying our best to be more sustainable and green in our daily life!

[@k.l.8804]

Low impact movement, that is actually perfect. Thank you.

[@sakarikinnunen]

Low impact is such a great term!! It includes all the ways you can lower your impact and doesn't mean just going plastic free like the term zero waste is often understood. Sustainable peace and love from Finland!

[@sydshome]

This really resonates with me. I’ve just started recently moving towards low waste and have come up against a lot of these issues. Thank you for sharing, it’s really helpful!

[@monikawillowmatic]

You are one really really cool and calm person. I agree with calling it low impact movement.

[@filizmely]

Thank you so much for opening the topic barriers I don't have Instagram so I didn't see the post but I've gotten really frustrated and kind of excluded from the zero waste movement bc due to mental disorders and disability and therefore a bery poor finanical situation and not being able to work I never could as much as I wanted and getting told by every zero waste blogger/youtuber that 'Everyone can do it blahblahblah' made me feel incredibly shit anout myself and my disabilities. Bc I think we need to differenciate that phrase 'everyone can do it more' bc I think it means 'everyone who has the abilities' but unfortunately not everyone has the abilities and thats a topic which is talked about too little yet if not not at all... also thank you for mentioning that in the end it's the companies who's turn it is to change.. eventhough I think it's important to spread the issue of waste and change your way of thinking and your actions I think it's important to remember that also policy has to change in the long term and therefore we also should put more pressure on it and do more work in society and protests. (sorry for my poor english.. it's not my original language and rn I'm not able to look things up in a dictionary) Lots of love ❤

[@jurottluff2364]

Ich kenne dein Problem selbst auch. Bis zu meinem Umzug in eine größere Stadt hatte ich wirklich gar keine Möglichkeiten Lebensmittel plastikfrei zu kaufen, da ich schon froh war, überhaupt einen Supermarkt in der Umgebung zu haben. Aber ich habe versucht, auf die "Kleinigkeiten" zu achten: Kaffeebecher, Plastiktüten oder -besteck, einfach, weil ich mir des Problems bewusst war. Wir haben alle unterschiedliche Möglichkeiten und es ist schon wirklich gut, überhaupt darüber nachzudenken und sich des Problems bewusst zu machen. Auch das macht schon einen großen Unterschied und ist gerade in Situationen, wo man eben genug andere Probleme hat, die einen eben an einem "Zero-Waste-Leben" hindern, trotzdem noch an sowas zu denken. Irgendwann kommt der Tag, dass es so massentauglich ist, dass alle dazu Zugang erhalten können. Aber bis dahin ist bereits das Bewusstsein schon eine gute Möglichkeit, die Idee zu teilen. (Und ja, eventuell bin ich ein gruseliger Mensch, da ich meine Vermutung, dass deine Muttersprache Deutsch ist, anhand der Videos, die du magst, überprüft hab.)

[@filizmely]

Julia Rottluff vielleicht ein bisschen ;) nee ernsthaft.. danke für die Antwort! Es ist gut zu wissen dass man nicht alleine ist :)

[@denisefe902]

Beautiful. Honestly that is exactly what I was searching for. Not only minimal waste but also minimalism, veganism and everything else that lessens our impact. I was never really a fan of the zero waste term anyway. Thank you for your activism at the Social media and your kind words against all this wrong forced perfectionism