what NOT to do when going zero waste/ eco-friendly/ sustainable

[@dayna6938]

The biggest things I have learned from you is to have patience when I want to buy something. If I wait and keep my eye on the thrift stores I usually always find what I am looking for OR I waited for so long I realize I don't really need what I was wanting. I have saved 100's of dollars by not shopping at all and by also mainly shopping second hand! Thanks!

[@williamsaunders3571]

My minimal waste home looks like an eclectic witchy shop The mistake I made is telling to my cousin who now buys me reusable zipper bags every Christmas

[@novakien2714]

I waited almost a year for new baking tins and a cheesecake springform pan. Yes it took time, but sooooo much cheaper!

[@ellaronci2703]

I think the best tip is just use what you have before you buy more 'sustainable' options. Im still using plastic toothbrushes because i have a bunch, but next time i need to buy one, im going to get a non-plastic option. Instead of throwing what you already have away and getting a 'better' option is more wasteful then just using what you have first

[@XeLYoutube]

but if the plastic hold animal flesh and secretion, producing those corpse cost alot of potable water and gmo monocrop soy

[@lydiaswanson3240]

Great reminder!

[@lamb444]

@@XeLKZbin how does plastic hold animal flesh

[@8_oceanrain607]

I just use my unused plastic toothbrushes as a prop to show how much plastic waste we produce in my videos and instagram posts.

[@minagrey9584]

I fell into a huge sort of “eco- depression” for awhile trying to consider every decision I made to be eco conscious and it wrecked me because I felt terrible guilt any time I made a wasteful decision. Like instead of takeout or buying more food, I’d force myself to eat really unsatisfying meals (I’m not a great cook- I just don’t know how to combine things in an interesting way) to the point I stressed about eating at all, or I would try not to buy online but felt bad driving to stores, and I suffered through wearing threadbare or unattractive clothing or clothing that didn’t fit because that is what I had and I was taking months to try to find a thrifted item or purchase from a sustainable business…it was rough. I still struggle with the guilt but am recognizing that it’s part of me trying to work within a system not geared towards a sustainable lifestyle. And there are too many areas to try to tackle them all at once.

[@fancy24frenzy]

I feel you. The ultimate sustainable person does not exist (literally). Please don't forget about the "living" part in "sustainable living". If you spend your time stressing out about not being sustainable enough, you're missing out on the joy in life, which eventually leads to a lot of wasted time. I'm well aware that it's sometimes hard to find the balance between being eco conscious and having fun, but there is no way of doing it perfectly. You're doing great and it shows that you're a very empathetic person ❤️ P.S.: How about taking cooking classes with a person you like spending time with? Always a great gift idea and I'm sure there are online options 😉

[@nellie3176]

Something I try to remember is everyone collectively working TOWARDS zero waste, is much more beneficial than a few people PERFECT at zero waste!!

[@SaveMoneySavethePlanet]

Here’s what my wife and I did (and still do) in order to get better at cooking: 1) buy a cookbook that looks interesting 2) leaf through it one afternoon and “dog ear” all the recipes that you want to try making some day 3) come back every Sunday morning and pick a recipe that you’ll attempt for dinner 4) grab the needed stuff during your shopping trip and have at it What I found that I got out of it wasn’t so much the specific recipes but more so the ideas. I would finish a recipe and think “I never thought about using canned beans this way!” Or I might think “wow, paprika and Rosemary pair really well as spices! I’ll use that again sometime.” Slowly but surely I built up all these little individual learnings so that my cooking throughout the week has become way more varied and interesting.

[@rinadashrenee]

Omg I didn’t know what I was feeling had a name. I definitely suffer with eco depression. I would stop myself from buying necessities until I could find an eco friendly version of that product. I was driving myself crazy and felt guilty all the time. I’m trying to shift my focus to using what’s not sustainable to its full potential so I don’t feel so bad about waste.

[@estellec5340]

I used to feel a lot like that. It's not as bad now and I think I really needed to take better care of my mental health...if I think too much about it then I do so many unsustainable things. I have to remind myself of the many sustainable things I do (especially compared to the average person). We don't need a few people who do everything sustainably, we need a lot of people who do whatever they can to live more sustainably even if it's not perfect.

[@99leadpencils]

My mistake: thinking that *driving* to the bulk store (7-min away) to buy package free was a net-better choice for the climate than buying packaged items at the grocery store I can walk to. When I did the math, the weight of the plastic packaging I was avoiding was NOT worth the gas used. I only broke even on my big stock up trips in terms of CO2 emissions. My new year's resolution is to (1) take my bike for these special trips once it is warm enough. And (2) instead of worrying about thin plastic trash, write more often to companies to provide better options.

[@RosaVsEveryone]

how do you figure this out? my refill place is a bit far from me... but i've convinced myself it's better than buying more packaging and i'm not sure if that's true!

[@Ruth-tbk]

Personally, having less things makes me want to purchase less things. When my space is cluttered I'm more stressed and actually have noticed that I make more impulse purchases. So for me (personally!) decluttering helps me to consume less. Obviously I try to do it as responsibly as possible.

[@volvoblues]

I completely agree. I decluttered a few years ago, I am sure it have had a huge impact on my shopping habits. The issue is not the decluttering but what happens afteewards.

[@zakosist]

If it works for you it makes sense. Personally I dont get stressed out by clutter unless its an extreme amount or directly in the way. And would even prefer a too messy house over a too empty one (I dont prefer clutter, the best is a tidy but well decorated space), many minimalism interior pictures makes me feel like I would not be comfortable being in that space at all, and its almost like you haven't moved in yet

[@kittykat1846]

I've found that a great way to declutter is to give things away through buy nothing groups on Facebook. This way I know that the things are going to people that want and will hopefully use them.

[@SaveMoneySavethePlanet]

Have you used the new buy nothing app? I’ve stayed away cause I don’t want to start using my Facebook again, but was considering starting now that they have a stand alone app. If you have a review then I’d love to hear it!

[@kittykat1846]

@@SaveMoneySavethePlanet oh what's the name of the app? I haven't heard of it

[@NovaWildwood]

Same, when I moved last year I had to downsize pretty drastically but gave almost everything away through facebook (helps that I lived in a college town, it mostly went to incoming college students who needed furniture or housewears) and only had to take a few things to goodwill.

[@jaykayspoons]

You weren't the first creator I saw about sustainability but you were the first one to break it down and to make it attainable! Thank you for your hard work and services you have provided over the years and I am looking forward to continuing this journey. 😊

[@ashleyh6407]

Using a tailor/dry cleaner has been the best decision for me recently and I don't hear a lot of people mention it as an option. I have heard you mention to repair things yourself, but paying a small local business to fix it like new is even better!! I started by having my favorite reusable collapsible bag fixed, then had 4 shirts altered instead of buying new ones and ditchthe old. Just picked up a pair of pants they fixed the seam on, and I'm taking a pair of pants today that was like new at a Goodwill but needs the hem dropped. Now I have my mom doing it too! (Because I take her stuff and pick it up for her 😆)

[@IQSim]

This! I'm taking clothes that need to get repaired to a local tailor. I could give them to my sister-in law. But I want to support a small local business.

[@winterzealot]

That’s really awesome! Can I ask how much it usually costs to get something altered? A shirt, for example? I’ve never gone to a tailor before, but I’m curious

[@ashleyh6407]

@@winterzealot between $6-$8 usually. That has been for fixing seems, cutting off long shirts and creating hems, sewing material into the neckline of blouses to make it look like a camisole under it, (I supplied the fabric). Dropping a hem in pants. I'm good with a needle and thred, but I don't have a machine to do professional looking repairs, especially for my work clothes.

[@fancy24frenzy]

@@winterzealot I'm sure it depends on where you live, but last winter I had my favourite wintercoat altered for about 20-25€ (~23-28$) I don't know exactly

[@megangwilliam5343]

I have a bunch of clothing that I keep wanting to send to a tailor, I’m just incredibly anxious about doing that type of thing. I have a bunch of old jeans that fit but have some holes (and stuff I’ve thrifted that has rips in places I don’t like) and need to get them patched

[@kathryncryts5537]

I’ve never really felt like I related to “minimalism”, but I’ve definitely made the mistake of just giving so much stuff to goodwill instead of making sure it found a good home when I first paired down my consumption and was trying to get rid of things I didn’t use. Also, I’m sure I’ve forgotten a reusable bag and bought more because I’ve forgot it, but I specifically remember my sister telling me she almost always forgot her reusable bag so she almost always bought a new one when she went to the store and I was very adamantly like “No no no, it’s SO much better for the environment to just use the plastic bags then buy a new reusable bag every single time. Or just carry or cart everything to your car.”

[@SaveMoneySavethePlanet]

Goodwill is always so hard to resist. It’s just so much easier than making a CL posting, responding to the floor of emails, and then meeting a stranger in a random place… Still, I’m trying to get better at doing the more responsible option.

[@mathildelonborg]

@@SaveMoneySavethePlanet I don’t live in the US so I use Facebook Marketplace/Facebook buy nothing groups, but find it really easy to use. I often just end up leaving the thing out on my doorstep and then they come get it whenever it suits them. Minimal hassle for both of us. I would never give anything away if I had to travel to do it 😅 So I completely understand. Taking a big box to a thrift store is so tempting 🙈

[@zakosist]

One thing that can help you remember bringing reusable bags is to not throw out any of the plastic bags you take (and dont buy new reusable bags either, if you already have them at home its practically pointless to buy more, if you take a new one every time its not really "reusable"), unless they're already full of other garbage that isn't other plastic bags. When I first started using reusable bags for real, and not throwing out any plastic bags (other than for trash), I had leftover plastic bags for months. I also think it helps to put the reusable bag together with whatever you usually bring with you when leaving the house, then its more automatic to grab it.

[@yvettelombera1031]

One zero waste habit that I have is re-using the glass jars that my groceries come in. Things like marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce and big jars for mixed nuts. I have accumulated at least nine glass jars that come in different shapes and sizes; they come in handy when I don’t have the right Tupperware to store a liquid and I’ve found so many uses for them!

[@misscrackwood]

I can't ever throw a glass jar and it drives my husband absolutely nuts 😅 but I feel like it's such a waste to throw them in the recycling bin, they're so useful!

[@megangwilliam5343]

I worked at a daycare and whenever the baby room ran through a certain amount of baby food they would give me all of the jars. I still need to clean like, two dozen of them, but I know they have potential 😔✊

[@lizziepine4164]

The biggest mistake I did was to view being more sustainable and eco-friendly as an all or nothing commitment. I can afford to buy everything in zero waste packaging? Then forget it - I won't buy any of it in eco-friendly packaging type of thinking. Realizing that my best effort will always outmatch unattainable or unsustainable perfectionism was difficult and I still struggle at times, but watching your videos has always been a kind reminder that every little bit helps!

[@SaveMoneySavethePlanet]

Yea, I feel like we all hit that same point early on in our journeys. I find it useful to remember that no matter how small my personal carbon footprint is, climate change will continue to happen. Because our countries have set up infrastructures which make it cheaper and more convenient to NOT be eco friendly. So I use the daily zero waste habits as a reminder that I need to show up to the next environmental March that I hear about, vote on the next big issue, email my representative about current legislation being debated, etc.

[@22turtle]

I'm on an eco journey AND a decluttering journey at the same time. Part of recovery from shopping addiction and hyper consumerism. It is hard for me to donate or throw things away since I feel torn about destroying the environment. But I have tried to let go and recognize the joy in having the things that I need. It helps me appreciate what I have and think more about the items I bring into my home.

[@RealisticallySustainableDiary]

My favourite way to make sure I remember to carry mu resuable tote bag, which i hated cartying as i love being hands-free, was to make merch of the novel Ive written and putting that design on a tote bag. Now the fangirl and proud newbie author in me adores carrying the bag everywhere.

[@Alicia-ot7kc]

Unfortunately, I was one of those people who got caught in the ✨aesthetic ✨aspect of sustainability, ended up buying a ton of plants and jars, stainless steel containers, etc 🤦‍♀️ not realizing I was actually doing worse

[@MsSamhoffman]

You have taught me so much about my past consumerism. I am very lucky to just use the things I have always. I have really looked into changes I can make such as fixing my own clothes. Speaking of clothes, anytime I decide to "purge" my closet, I allow all of my friends to pick anything they want and I always tell them to only take stuff if they will use it, after that I will call local women's shelters to see what they need and if I have items that match those needs and then I will research a company that will take my textiles and reuse them. It's time consuming but it's definitely worth it. I am currently making the mistake of composting. I moved into a house and so I got compost, well I just use a trash can I mix with a broken broom handle but I don't have any use for this compost at the moment. So right now I am researching where I can donate my current compost (i have indeed found some places) and how I can continue to compost (which I found a program in my city that gives you a bucket that gets picked up bi-weekly for you to put your compost in and they use it to grow city gardens!). Thank you for all of your knowledge!

[@SaveMoneySavethePlanet]

Another common pitfall I see people hurt by is simply trying to do too much too quickly. Lower waste solutions are almost always you trading extra time for lower waste. So if you try to do ten things at once then you might exhaust yourself, decide it’s too hard, and then bail. So I suggest trying at most, to simply adjust once facet of your life per month. Sure this doesn’t sound like a lot, but before you know it you’ll have changed almost everything! Edit: I commented this early in the video and you kind of covered it in the “expecting it to happen overnight” section.

[@amberdwyer1242]

Yes you always gotta introduce change slowly! I've been on my lower waste journey for over 2 years and everything has been gradual changes. There's been many 180's I've made from absolutely not wanting to make a lower waste decision to now always making that decision and that's only happened because I've been kind to myself and gave myself grace and time.

[@SaveMoneySavethePlanet]

@@amberdwyer1242 exactly! We always underestimate how many of those little 180’s we’ll end up making. When you’re specifically trying to lower your waste and may even buy stuff in order to do that, then a 180 can be super detrimental to your goals. At work, I always recommend that teams try to simulate potential solutions as much as possible before actually investing in them. This tends to help us avoid a 180 being as detrimental to our efforts and I feel like the advice applies to the zero waste movement as well.

[@menoswaste1780]

Super agreed!

[@casselnoel]

I definitely identify with originally feeling like I needed that all or nothing mentality (not just with sustainability either) so slowly changing has been my journey. Instead of an overall sustainable “resolution” each year, I started making smaller goals each year that compound on each other. Years and years ago I focused on having reusable bags and buying more groceries without plastic packaging like bulk. Then it was reliably using a water bottle and not buying water. Slowly I’ve built up to the place I’m at now and continue to grow and adapt. Which works for me. Your content and message has definitely helped to reframe my mindset 🌎

[@jennrae67]

Thank you for your open mindedness about what is eco conscious. I have an ongoing background mental discussion on how to balance my goals with my daughter’s special needs, of which what she will eat and how are a big necessity for her health, I have found an internal balance of my goals and her needs. You saying it’s ok to have reusable straws makes me happy because even though she’s a teenager, she can only drink out of a straw. And I mean happy in the way that it’s not black and white but it’s also what I can do and what works for my family.

[@psylettagilroy]

One of the BEST lessons that I have learned from you is that USING what I ALREADY have is really the MOST sustainable thing that I can do. I have DEFINITELY been wasteful in the past and swapped out a lot of things (before I saw your channel), but now I'm trying to be more aware of that practice and limit the things that I replace/repurchase.

[@AdorableAcushla]

We live in the NYC Metro area, the nearest grocery store is a 20 minute walk away. We have decided not to replace our car when it broke down and rely on walkability and public transit (which is admittedly amazingly good in this area). That said, if my partner accidentally forgets bags buying another one is really the only option as my city has done away with both single use plastic bags and reusable straws. You really can't juggle an entire 2 weeks work of groceries in your arms and walk 20 mins.

[@debifisher2101]

Have you considered a wagon or shopping cart to bring groceries home? I have a shopping cart and I use a lift to go to store, saves my back, the cart was actually my moms. Stay warm and safe

[@AdorableAcushla]

@@debifisher2101 we have a cart but have not been able to find a liner as it seems to be an odd size. So bags are needed so everything does not fall through the holes

[@justmonicarae6933]

Since losing my husband last year I have fallen for every one of these!!! I am trying so hard to just calm down and be more mindful.

[@Ally-ug3nq]

One thing that I did was put a lot of pressure on myself to be perfect and produce such little waste - I felt like such a failure and realised overtime that this pressure wasn't good for me and to step back and re-analyse what I can do in a good way and without the pressures. It is a journey and like you say S, always more to do and more to learn!

[@diesels_girl9695]

My water softener salt currently serves a dual purpose. Right now I drive a 2 wheel drive truck (I will be getting something more fuel efficient when I can afford it) in the winter I use the salt to weigh down the back of my truck so it does better in the ice and snow. Then in the spring we use it in the water softener. While it doesn't reduce waste, it's helpful and I don't have to buy something else to do the job.

[@wmstchic]

You taught me that what I already have is the most sustainable thing. I've come back to that on many occasions.

[@0iska]

Good list. Related to your point about thinking what works for someone else works for you too, I'd like to add the opposite = thinking what works for you is possible for everyone else also. I think this is often related to innocent ignorance (no one can know everything after all) or beginner enthusiasm where ppl just forget that our lives and options are incredibly varied. But this can lead to judging others and make talking about sustainability difficult, so I wanted to mention it.

[@amezvel8239]

my biggest embarrassment at the very beginning of my journey was when i was super excited having had bought a cutlery set made out of wood. i showed my family and my little sister said “they look very nice, but couldn’t you have just taken all that from the kitchen?” I realized I unnecessarily made a purchase just so I could feel I actually did something. My youngest sister is someone who I try my best to set a good example for always and I not only felt like I failed my goal, the movement, the plant BUT HER TOO and she saw it and pointed it out made it even worse for my ego and pride 😖 BUT it made me proud that she could point that out also lol it definitely embarrassed me enough to the point where i scrutinize absolutely everything in my carts before actually buying them.

[@Trigillia]

OMG that little compost video teaser zoom in was everything

[@Sophie-db1ko]

‘Find joy about chasing something that you care deeply about.’ ❤️

[@chelseyaustin6015]

only been watching your videos for a week but love love love how you constantly say "i thought/said this, got new information, now I think/do this." it is so refreshing to see someone take accountability, not that anything you have said was "wrong", but so many people do not update their beliefs and feelings.

[@liveby.eunhye]

You're the most realistic, enthusiastic and genuine eco-influencer I've known. Thank you so much for sharing with such honesty and insights. It reminds me that eco-friendly living is not a fad, but a serious matter that I need to learn and practice long-term.

[@kaitlincrane_]

Currently growing out of the, “I have to get rid of all of my things and then buy sustainable things to replace them phase” 😂 Oh boy haha, I realized the most sustainable thing I can do is to use what I have!! I love what you said about figuring out what you can’t and can compromise on, and about perfectionism around it. There are some things we can’t compromise on, at least not yet!

[@scminor99]

I think a huge one for me was buying sustainable swaps I just didn't need! There are so many swaps I bought in the past thinking I needed because someone on the internet told me I did, when in reality, I've rarely or never even touched them! Life tip for myself (and possibly others), buy only what you need, will use or brings you joy!

[@francescazins]

I'm super pumped about the upcoming compost video!!!!!

[@smiles1234happybunny]

I've always loved how you style your hair with curls! Would you consider doing a tutorial? Perhaps a sustainable haircare routine :)

[@terriannzanco2115]

Yes, please.

[@j.o.d.i.e]

"Revolution is a serious thing, the most serious thing about a revolutionary's life. When one commits oneself to the struggle, it must be for a lifetime." Angela Davis One of my favorite quotes, because I sometimes let the unending work depress me. I've been on my sustainability journey what feels like my whole life, but it started being more all-consuming around the same time yours did, it seems. I'm definitely not perfect, and much of what I struggle with is the mental game. Seeking perfection/black and white thinking (about plastic and stressing about my trash), those things resonate to an extent, but mostly in that they just take up so much mental space. I haven't been thrown off the lifestyle because of them, I just tend to stew in it and make myself feel like shit when in reality I'm doing a lot with what I have access to. Also, I definitely one day realized I had waaayyyyy too many reusable target bags from years of not having a better system of using what I had. I think it's important to mention that the longer you're on the journey, the easier some of these things will feel. It used to be MUCH harder for me to steer away from buying new for the aesthetic. I think there's a point of pride in buying something new (which varies depending on an individual's family's relationship with money and capitalism) that can be really hard to identify and face. Training yourself to ask those questions "do I need this?" "but how was it manufactured?" etc. is HUGE in terms of breaking habits.

[@Ellie-yn9zz]

Starting a no-buy in Feb after watching your quitting fast fashion video! Thanks for all the great resources and tips! :)

[@taaotest]

Buying neutral color things for i.e. furniture might also, in a way, be sustainable in the long run. Neutral colors stand time better than bright trend colors that come in and out of fashion so you don't get the urge to change them every few years.

[@Rhaifha]

That really depends on the person though. I've had pretty much the same style for my home for years, and some parts of it are currently quite trendy. It'll go out of fashion sometime too. That doesn't mean I'll stop loving it. I guess it's a "know yourself" kind of thing.

[@gmommie2]

I’ve just started my journey slowly. I’m very “instant gratification,” so I have to remember to keep a list of the eco better items to buy when it’s time, like when my current products are almost gone, and not now just because I want to start.

[@menoswaste1780]

Sounds like you are off to a good start!!

[@menoswaste1780]

Oh my goodness so much truth in this video 🙈 I think the one I fell for the most is the "trying to reach perfection" and that is actually what led me to start my Menos (less) waste shop and community 🙏🏽 Less seems a bit less (jaja) daunting to many. Anyway, your videos have definitely helped me!! Thank you for all your work 🤙🏽💕

[@halligallo5954]

I’ve always wondered about bulk bins, do they come wrapped in larger plastic bags before they’re emptied out into the bins?

[@misscrackwood]

It depends on the company and the products. At Bulk Barn, some stuff comes in giant bags they empty in the bins, but some other stuff (like coffee), I realised I could buy bigger bags at Costco (and so less packaging). Smaller bulk shops tend to select specific products and companies that deliver in reusable containers, so it's really something to check and ask questions. But in any case, when I need a special ingredient for a recipe I won't use often, I rather go to bulk Barn (who often have more options than my local independent little bulk shop) and only buy the amount I need, instead of buying a whole bag and letting the rest sit in my pantry until it goes bad!

[@kathryncatalan9952]

I love this! I have environmental anxiety

[@mocha1821]

I'm moving soon and am currently in the decluttering-and-sorting-through-all-my-shit phase of the moving process. I've been doing a lot of research to avoid donating all the things I'm getting rid of (since Goodwill was my scapegoat for about the last 15 years of my life). It's been so satisfying and rewarding to find a place that takes what you no longer want and ACTUALLY uses it! Clothing, bras, underwear, shoes, or even household items such as picture frames, lamps, computers. There's always someone out there who wants what you don't and can give it another life :) It's certainly taken a lot of effort, but it's been so worth it!

[@melodysmith5573]

I was one that bought new bags … never thought to just go without and just work it out when I got home

[@claires2096]

Shelbi! YOU HAVE CHANGED MY LIFE!! Thank you for all of your videos and research. You give so much back to this community. Your videos have helped me NOT throw everything away to start fresh with new zero waste/sustainable items. I’ve learned to be much more conscious with my purchases, to repair first!!! Then if I muuust shop, to shop second hand instead of creating more demand. I’ve learned to look up appropriate ways to recycle certain things that don’t go in the curbside recycling, that zero waste is about doing what works for you, not to fit any aesthetic. And most importantly to lead by example instead of trying to force everyone in my family to live like this!!! (Still working on this everyday) Im still learning new things each day and I love that you’re such a big part of my journey. Thank you!

[@foggybottomz]

Thank you for reiterating all the R’s that precede recycling!

[@DarkSeraph01]

"But, uhh, you're an introvert" pretty much defines my existence so I felt that in my soul.

[@Amaika16]

Love the waves Shelbi! 💁‍♀️

[@lauraodylis]

I’m definitely just beginning. but it has taken a lot of guilt away when I realized baby steps is the only way and as long as I get better everyday that’s all I can do. Also I remind myself corporations are mostly at fault and if I can support organizations or companies that support big change for the things I’m not ready to change yet, that’s what I do

[@lindaespinosa4390]

omg I really needed this! I have been trying to be more zero waste these last few weeks and I feel like I have been harder on myself!

[@pixkypix]

I love that you point out how we need to learn how to compromise!! You’re so brave to admit to these things and live freely because you already do so much! 👏 we all need to be in this mindset!

[@Hannah-cx3pt]

There are things that I bought because I just wanted them, reusable straws for one. I only had one and I used it all the time, and now I have a few! I bought a silicon tea steeper because my metal ones always broke down so fast and I felt bad about not being able to repair them. Use what you have, and take your steps!

[@cjphights8324]

The last time I was in goodwill I saw someone buying used glass baking dishes for meal prep and I thought of one of your videos where you talked about that.

[@Ally-ug3nq]

Looking lovely S!!! - I have been living this lifestyle for around four years and it has changed quite a bit for me with regards to what I can get, price and my outlook on this topic! I still make mistakes now but don't beat myself up about it. I have learnt over time that some changes are better then 100% changes that don't make one happy, use lots of time or complicate my life.

[@megbyt]

Such a good video! So glad you talked about this. Eco-anxiety is real and just being more sustainable in general can be confusing. Thank you so much for the knowledge you provide!

[@tehczmych]

For me the most important thing is to realise that recycling is not the solution. It's a widespread myth that as long as you sort your garbage things are, ecowise, fine. I was there too, till a few years ago I came over a book about recycling and it was truly "my life is a lie" experience. While recycling is necessary (even little is better than nothing), reducing is what matters the most. Thanks for talking so often about this, your videos are excellent.

[@adrianaoram3988]

Your videos are so amazing. I have always been into helping the planet and animals. You made me think more about what, where, and why I am purchasing things. To reuse to help our planet. ♻️ 🌍 I am currently in the process of no longer buying any plastics and bottled items. You helped make this happen so thank you. 💕

[@soapkohtv641]

OMG yes! Watching your video collab with Kathryn saved my life! I was about to place a big order of glassine bags made of paper for my business but you both talked about reusables like cotton over paper and I was able to pivot and bring my zero waste liquid soaps to market in a much more impactful way.

[@karladhdz8482]

Thank you for caring and sharing ❤

[@cutegixie]

The angelic glow behind you is incredible ☀️☀️☀️ you are literally outlined in light! I'm struggling with two things: the clothes for my life style and career are in flux rn so I'm mostly buying second hand or returned clothing, but it's still catering to my retail therapy at times. So need vs want is really hard to distinguish between rn (and I don't have room but can't tell what I should repurpose or give away) The other thing is living with in-laws who feel that they are doing enough for the be environment (based on thirty year old info). They are very kind and patient with the changes that I make for me and my partner to utilize but I unfortunately don't always feel that same patience with their unwillingness to adapt. Working real hard to be a better communicator and letting things go when necessary 😤

[@patriciaisaacs3080]

14:25 - this is why I love that Trupo Treats came out, plus the wrappers are compostable

[@josephineeverett9901]

I have always found that if I didn’t need/want the unsustainable version of something, I definitely don’t need to buy the sustainable swap. But it can still be hard to resist. I have never been someone who used ziplock bags, I always used Tupperware or jars, but when I started to try living a more sustainable life I really felt like I needed stasher bags. ( I ended up moving in with a roommate who already had some and I realized that I never reached for them). The same goes for reusable paper towels, Swedish dishcloths, and beauty rounds, I have always used rags for those purposes and already have so many. I think the reason I want to swap all of these things is because changing your surroundings feels like a fresh start and feels like progress even when it’s not.

[@vivigoesusa]

If you do your shopping by car anyways then a great thing to do is buy a collapsable crate/box for your trunk and just rolling your cart until there without any bags. Transfer it and voila you didn’t need a bag but you still get the convenience of carrying everything at once when you reach your home.

[@mentalmadness5402]

I have anxiety too. Mine prevents me from going to the grocery store, so bulk bins are not an option. BUT I can use bar soaps for my body, shampoo and dishes. I can pick organic options. Everyone doing what they can is important.

[@sunny4jenny]

I love that every time I watch one of your videos I learn something new or new way of thinking about living a greener life💚

[@anikamukherjee7027]

Fantastic video. Thanks for another banger Shelbi!

[@victoriam9242]

If so few things get resold after being donated to the thrift store, does it make more sense to “use the thrift store as a rental service” and buy an item second hand just to re-donate it after you use it or does it make more sense to give it directly to someone that can use it or store it? Like if you needed specific items for a wedding or event?

[@suzysizzle]

My biggest sustainable life change was a pack of bamboo straws I was gifted in Bali. Since receiving them two years ago I haven't had to buy another straw - ever! Only one broke due to splintering and knowing how many fewer straws end up in my garbage is just the best! I think the next item I want to get is a travelling cutlery pack (with chopsticks) so I can say no to plastic cutlery where ever I happen to get take out :)

[@saramorris6686]

Thank you! I needed this video. Sometimes I forget what I'm trying to do with eco-minimalism that I start to revert back to old, unsustainable habits, but in a more sustainable market. Your videos really help me keep myself in check.

[@jenchapman5734]

Ive been watching your videos for a few years now and you have definitely made an impact on the way I view sustainability and my (more) eco-concious lifestyle. Little changes over the years that have been influenced by you and a few other content creators. These changes have definitely rubbed off on family and friends as well. Thank you for all your positive influence! You are beautiful inside and out!!!

[@peacefuldingus]

Thank you for making this video Shelbi!! I especially loved when you talked about perfectionism and how it’s not possible to live more sustainably overnight because of all of the systemic issues we’re dealing with. Very well put and I’m loving the graphics in this one! You’re a freakin earth goddess SO STUNNING! 😍

[@VertigoVirgo94]

For preface: I live in a household of 9 people, 10 on the weekends. It sounds odd to some but has worked so well in my household and we waste a lot less food…is doing daily or every two day shopping. We used to try to bulk shop for a week or couple weeks at a time but a lot of it kept going to waste or we would forget about it or wouldn’t be in the mood, but when we made our purchases more frequently we waste a ton less. We also walk to the grocery store because it’s 3 blocks away. We all have different work schedules so whoever is home that day does the shopping and cooking and sometimes we have leftovers but because our fridge isn’t over packed it actually gets eaten up. So if someone has a larger household with more adults in it, this could be a consideration. Do eco-friendly things that benefit your household size and not because everyone else is trying it. Like meal prep doesn’t work for us, so we stopped doing it.

[@nataliawineland34]

So excited for the compost video!!!

[@kriscrawsx773]

Yes! The compromise! I'm not going to change doing what I love, and what brings me joy. But I will do the best I can to choose sustainable options in other areas of my life. Its really stressful changing your life style. Its hard finding sustainable habits/things that will work for you. But I think the easiest thing for sure is buying second hand ✌

[@jamie5510]

Absolutely love how real this is. This is probably the best/top video you e ever made! 🎉😊🔥🔥

[@mwyoung07]

I think tip #1 nailed what I have been feeling lately, 😭 but working very hard to use what I already have instead of replacing with new sustainable products. If I run out though, of course, I'm working to invest in more sustainable products. A good reminder of a practice I already knew but have to actively practice. Thanks for putting this together!

[@misscrackwood]

I always loved your focus on eco minimalism instead of falling in the "sustainable trend". I feel so many people are missing important keys when it comes to what sustainability really is (best exemple of that is leather vs "vegan" plastic leather) On decluttering, I always prefered doing yard sales or donating to people I know will use the items, instead of sending to Goodwill, so I knew things would be really used! I can't wait for the summer to be back here in Canada, I haven't been able to do a yard sale for a while now because of the pandemic and I have way too much stuff with the kids growing up 😅 Keeping stuff I don't need anymore or clothes that don't fit anymore takes too much mental space, and I have to constantly stop my hubby from buying all the tools instead of just renting or borrowing stuff when needed. Like you say, it's a journey, and we need to be kind with ourselves on that journey 🤭

[@cdw629]

Can’t wait for a video about different types of composting!!!

[@alexmcginness8859]

I own sooooo many jars because I got caught up in aesthetics at the beginning of my journey. I pickle things now so luckily have found a way to still use my jars! One thing I’ll mention is I used to feel awful for buying plastic lids for my jars. I think that’s better though than throwing out metal lids when they corrode because of the fermentation practice. I now think it’s better for me to reuse a few plastic lids than regularly buying metal ones.

[@StrollingThroughLife]

Love this video! I definitely got caught up in the aesthetic years ago. But I love a colorful 🌈 home haha.

[@cindibowden8425]

One item I bought thinking how much it would save me from using plastic wrap was the stretchy silicone covers. What a PITA they are when I can easily cover a bowl with a plate. But I did repurpose them... They are under my plant stands to catch water.

[@ajum89]

There are so many things I have rescued from the dumpster, cleaned and given away based on my sustainability journey. But I get so burned out seeing the amount of things people just trash. And I love your point about donating to thrift store, there are so many other ways to declutter but yes sometimes thrift store is the last resort. As for the extra cloth/reusable bags, check with local pantries as I volunteer in one and we need those type of bags specifically for frozen meat items.

[@authenticallytrish]

I had to make an effort to put my reusable bags back in the car on a weekly basis and check it off a list to stop buying so many dang bags 💼 that one definitely resonates

[@presleecarson532]

I have started horse back riding it’s so fun and get out of your comfort zone be yourself any stores need to be plastic free more healthy products here and a targeted in Tennessee make some changes adopt don’t shop people come on!❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@happytofu5]

I always forgot my reusable bags at home. So I bought multiple and placed one in every bag I own to never ever forget one again. It might seem excessive, but by doing so, I almost never have to buy a paper bag.

[@novakien2714]

One of my favorite swaps I have made was getting handkerchiefs! My tissue usage is significantly less now

[@CF.]

Great points Shelby. 💕

[@NoName-zh9ov]

I’m absolutely forgetful, and so is my mum, so now we have about 30 or so reusable bags and it took us about 6 years I’d say to actually get into the habit of going shopping with a backpack AND there’s always a bag in there too in case we buy more food than the backpack can carry or underestimate the weight. So yup, been there done that.

[@kailyngregorash9447]

My favorite video so far

[@imeldaj2314]

I really like your point about being ok will still purchasing things that may not be 💯 sustainable because it adds value to your life. There are still products I purchase new (and in plastic) because they work for me and that's ok. I may not be 💯 sustainable in all areas of my life but I'll do all the good that I can.

[@alexandrahenderson4368]

I lived in San Antonio for 6 months. And all I can say is yeah the water there is super hard. Like Texas water is just packed with so many minerals. Like the water fountains on base tasted like you were drinking metal.

[@fenwicus]

One of your best videos - and that is high bar. One thing I don’t understand: Why would anyone criticize reusable straws?

[@Klara_is_finding_herself]

I'm so glad I found this video 🎉 Thank you for inspiring content 🙏 💚

[@KingyoKeiChan]

I think for me the biggest thing that I struggle with is when I go grocery shopping and I'm trying to be in and out, I don't want or have the time to spend look up every company as I go to pick an item to decide whether they're a sustainable brand or not. And, it can be super stressful and make my eco anxiety really bad. My go to would be the non packaged or less plastic packaging if possible and I know that's not really what it's about like you're saying, Shelbi. wish there was something I could do to make this process easier or somewhere where I can trust that what is being sold is sustainable.

[@daisyzara]

Because of your channel, I really wanna start a sustainable business (:

[@caitlinsilver3651]

Thank you so much for making videos like this. I love your channel and you've made the tricky things like sustainable feminine products, or recycling centers so much easier to understand

[@Hannah-hx5sp]

When i started trying to reduce my waste i immediately thought "what should i buy" rather than "what shouldn't i buy"

[@landis8377]

I think that for me the biggest challenge in this point of my journey is finding new things to place the energy I typically use when my consumeristic side continues to be a part of me. Especially, when I live with a family that doesn't prioritize sustainability and is constantly encouraging those bad habits/urges :( But i think that I really am learning to accept that I am making a difference by learning how to properly store food or researching everyday items (who gives a crap and pela!) that are more sustainable and that wont make life hard for anyone in the family.

[@haleighsmith904]

I love pastels and cute things but its really hard to find things that are eco friendly that fit the aesthetic. the best thing I found to do is diy

[@terryhenderson424]

Saving money is often the best way to get otherwise less enthusiastic folks on board in the three R's of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

[@Astropheminist]

"The three Rs are in that order for a reason" Literally never realized that tysm