The Wasteful Truth About Lauren Singer

Lauren singer is an influencer who is the poster child of the zero waste life. She is part of a group of activists who are committed to reducing waste in all aspects of their life, from zero waste makeup to zero waste vegan cooking. She is committed to making her apartment entirely zero waste. She even claims to have all her trash from the past 7-8 years contained in a single mason jar. Is any of this even possible?
Article link:
goingzerowaste.com/blog/three...
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[@GoingZeroWaste]

Hey! I'm Kathryn kellogg. If anyone is curious about life after the trash jar, I threw my name in the ring for public office and served in an advisory capacity to my city council and worked on waste reduction legislation.

[@tashaarzt6239]

Would you count going to the dentist and the waste that makes or would you not mention it back then

[@tess6047]

Tasha Arzt why the dentist

[@RobertTolppi]

Your article was amazing! I'm so glad you found this.

[@blakea.e.1681]

@@tess6047 because everyone goes to the dentist?

[@musicmama2864]

I just discovered your videos, Kathryn. I definitely appreciate your perspective.

[@hayleym1483]

I think zero waste is unattainable for the average person. 'Low waste' or 'waste conscious' would be much better names for such a movement.

[@masichasi]

It's because of the way society is built and the values we prioritize. If we create a system that allows us to be zero waste, or even better, lets us give back to the world, we could really make a change.

[@theflowerhead]

Realism.

[@theflowerhead]

@@masichasi I'm bipolar and what I need to live is wasteful but what am I going to do? I'm already so invisible and I have to sacrifice so many fun things to be healthy It's like I'm not going to get rid of my phone that gives me access to calming videos and books. I'm not going to stop taking my medicine that keeps me from being a dangerous manic person. I think you can try to counteract the things you can't give up by doing good things and just providing a way for the earth to heal itself like it has through the coronavirus. I always felt like mother nature had to be tough. But nothing is 100% obviously. But yeah, society didn't make me feel like I needed to fix my many illnesses the pain did, so sometimes I think it's just unavoidable even though our society has become so wasteful after world war II. No pun intended but some of the ways we live today is garbage, mentally and physically.

[@rmbf244]

@@theflowerhead I have not seem anybody from the zero waste community claiming you need to get rid of your phone? Everybody has and needs a phone, there are definetly ways to not be so wasteful when it comes to technology like buying phones second hand... But nobody claiming to get rid of it. I also need to take medication as well but again I've never seen anybody say people should stop taking medication to be zero waste?? That's obviously more important than putting your trash of a year in a jar. In fact whenever I've seen this being discussed everybody goes out of their way to say if it's medical to do it. If the only trash we ever did was medical the earth wouldn't be as it is

[@masichasi]

@@theflowerhead you're totally right. And we're not meant to waste absolutely nothing. Every animal lives wastefully to some extent, but humans just don't give back. We just take and take. That's where the problem lies. If we give back more than we waste, we will be ok.

[@siriuslyconfused1]

I didn’t come from Tik-Tok, the KZbin algorithm is now on your side ;)

[@RobertTolppi]

That's exciting! I feel like it's impossible these days to get in people's feeds.

[@Rehptawr]

Same for me

[@aquariusangel816]

Robert Tolppi showed up in my recommended too!! great vid

[@piau1798]

Same! I didn’t know you or that Lauren before but I’m interested in „less waste“ so I clicked :) nice video , greetings from Berlin, Germany!

[@isabellac3598]

Me too! And it’s interesting I didn’t get to this earlier cause this is 100% for me

[@hy1684]

and the thing I hate most about people trying to go zero waste is they feel they have to get steel cups or lunch bags etc. the plastic containers we all have at home are perfectly reusable, they are meant to be reused, why buy more things cause they "look" and "feel" enviromentally friendly.

[@samseeraj1989]

Love this! i have plastic containers that i have had for 4 years and i still use to store food or other things. 4 YEARSSS!!! never had to buy any "steel" containers at all. So long as you keep your things clean and in good condition they can be reused over and over. For example every 1-2 years I get new towels, my old towels i either cut up into small rags, use them for my pets, or donate to shelters who need it in order to care for the animals. Its all about using less and reusing what you have.

[@ilsevandijk]

And by throwing your old plastic container you create more waste, you should only buy it if you need a new one not when you try to be environmental friendly

[@Redorgreenful]

@@ilsevandijk That's exactly the message everyone should get.

[@elainelouve]

There are also other reasons. Plastic wears much faster than say glass. There can be micro plastic in one's food due to that and possibly some bad chemicals. Plastic containers also get stained from things like tomato sauce, and they start to smell rancid when they get old. I suspect it might be because they don't get as clean anymore due to being worn out, and food particles get stuck. This is at least what has happened with our plastic cutting boards and it tells that it's time to get new ones. (Plastic boards are easier than wood when you're also using them for meat and fish, as they can be washed in the dishwasher.)

[@zachzg]

@@elainelouve agree, but I believe the previous replies are saying not to immediately throw out plastic containers one owns until that wear happens to save costs + an obvious option of reuse when going waste conscious too

[@Robin-of2jt]

My first thought as a chronically ill person was: medication. Pill bottles, blister packs--meds come in single use plastic or in small bottles that are difficult to reuse. You'd have to never even need an Advil to be "zero-waste"

[@matthewpritchard2173]

exactly. even with my pharmacy completely sterilizing and then re-using pill bottles if you hand them in and me personally trying to reuse whatever i can, it would be impossible for me. i use mason jars to keep my sharps until i can get them properly dispose of them, and i fill a mason jar every month with my syringes for my medication.

[@ms.pirate]

If you are a builder, or a crafter. You can re use those plastic pill bottles to put screws and nails, or beads or charms

[@blondy2061h]

And God forbid you use any medical equipment. You should see the waste my insulin pump and cgm produce.

[@headlikesoup]

Also thinking about my daughter’s MANY single use suction catheters to maintain her airway. I really had to shift my perspective and not feel guilty about the immense waste we are producing

[@blondy2061h]

@@headlikesoup my perspective is that I try and be conscientious about the products I use where I can, but my medical products are necessary to my health and ultimately a small fraction of a fraction of the world's waste.

[@jackdavidmullen8058]

it’s better to think about being less wasteful then becoming obsessed with just the mason jar border. it’s unhealthy to create borders if she really was waste-free.

[@RobertTolppi]

Amen!

[@batmanlikespizza2541]

Agreed!

[@Knura]

Why does this remind me so much of people preaching not to restrict calories

[@thethmooteresa]

@@Knura *cough* Metaphors

[@MajimeTV]

@@RobertTolppi Why are you saying "Amen" to this after responding to the person you're talking shit about who literally said she held an advisory position in government to help reduce waste? She probably just had the mason jar as a way to prove to herself that she can do it, and it's definitely not an unhealthy obsession. There was a point in time where the only trash I ever had come out of my house were compostable food containers and plastic wrap because I work in the food industry. I never paid for garbage pickup the entire time I lived in that studio apartment because I never produced more trash than could fit in a simple office trashcan. Now, I feel as though I produce a lot of trash and most of it is packaging from the foods I eat.

[@JustObsessing]

I wonder how many zero waste influencers threw out items they already had (like plastic toothbrushes for bamboo ones) for the aesthetic of looking eco friendly instead of just using it until it no longer works.

[@emilybeaty27]

I wish I could like this comment 1,000x

[@gimygaming8655]

True

[@Starry_Night_Sky7455]

This comment nails it!

[@p1ysaucedo]

They tell you not to do this and to use and reuse the plastic you do have until it can no longer be used.

[@oldgeezer2780]

I know someone who brings her bamboo cutlery to work in a special cloth wrapper. I stick a fork and spoon from the silverware drawer in my bag.

[@kelseyfinlayson9498]

As a person who has been in the “zero waste” community, her lifestyle has never been attainable for most of us. We try our best at reducing our consumption and waste but her image of zero waste IS toxic because it scares away people due to her extremes. In reality it’s just cutting out stuff like plastic to-go boxes and plastic shopping bags. I’ve seen a lot of people online who go by the term “Low Waste” because that’s what’s more attainable and honestly it’s more accurate. Aight - i’m done

[@fredsmith-kingofthelunatic7810]

It's also 1000x more realistic and believable. I read your comment and immediately thought, yep you're on the level. I saw her claim and had to stop myself from laughing.

[@Annnabannanna]

Exactly . Zero waste is not possible. For example, braces, medicine containers, safes, padlocks, and pretty much a lot of things we need. We can deifnetly use paper packaging etc, but sometimes, the best option for the planet is the worst for humans. A paper pad lock would be useless. So i think completely zero would not be obtainable. I once tried to be zero wastw, but these types of peoplpe really put me off. I used a plastuc bag, intending for it to be reused and i got bashed. It ripped from me using it over 20 times, and i got bashed for binning it. Fun fact, the plastic bag was made because cotton and paper took a lot of energy to make. The plastic bag was intended to last longer. So if we made thicker and more durable plastic bags, that would be a lot better than paper bags, ect...

[@facelessdrone]

@@Annnabannanna how is a zpadlock waste? Thats just technology you use everyday. Zero waste is completely attainable, look at rural communities, they've been doing it for decades. Its just harder in the city because everyone gets so comfortable with throwing stuff away... my great grandma used to tell me how during the great depression they'd reuse every single thing they had, and obviously that was before a lot of plastic containers, but because of that mindset rural communities typically still operate that way, reusing literally everything, even blister packs and ripped, too small to wear clothes.

[@stormwing1424]

@@facelessdrone zero waste is very hard most and impossible for some people. low waste or reduced waste is a a lot more realistic and better Goal to strive to. You gotta understand that most are balance things like work and school and relationships that your waste is something you don’t really think about. So unless your life is going perfectly zero waste is almost unattainable

[@stray3865]

I work at a store where a very popular zero waste individual held up the line to take her herbs out of plastic. Only to hand me the plastic and tell me she couldn’t take it home, I was left at my register with a small pile of trash to deal with before helping the next customer. The glass jar idea is so ridiculous

[@yiz1612]

sounds like she needs a reality check

[@RuRaynor]

Sounds like someone who needs to start a herb garden! That's the only way to guarantee herbs without packaging.

[@tomorrowpie5425]

Ru made truth! I also add paper seed packets into compost as well

[@mousey4983]

I think it's good they did that. Let the store deal with the waste. This is a classic protest.

[@shaquicedacosta]

mousey4983 I think the sticking point was when the individual held up the line. Where I live, there’s a counter we use to sort trash into provides bins before we leave the store.

[@Adam-de8jm]

"I didn't personally throw it away so there's no waste."

[@lovelykitty42]

r/technicallythetruth

[@guktefngrshoo7465]

What else is she fucking supposed to do? There’s only so much in someone’s control. She did the right thing when she was supposed to and decrediting this movement ends nowhere good

[@sussurus]

@@guktefngrshoo7465 hello lauren

[@Adam-de8jm]

guktefn grshoo Shes still doing a better job than most of us waste wise, but like the video said the jar idea has loopholes. I just think it’s funny when people post the jars like that’s all they’ve produced for years.

[@chipppsssaaa269]

guktefn grshoo She shouldn't be acting like she's setting some kind of standard when she's just as wasteful as the rest of us. If you're going to live the lifestyle of mason jar waste, then actually make it a realistic goal instead of setting yourself up to be some kind of waste-less messiah. Her influencing is setting an unrealistic standard for most average people, and debunking "lifestyles" like this is actually a GOOD thing, as it gives us room to focus on more achievable goals. We need stepping stones to even *reach* close to the point she's at. We're not just going to magically get rid of all our waste overnight, y'know? So, maybe stop white-knighting her because you and people like you are the reason none of us have a modicum of hope to start working towards this, you make it seem like you want it to just magically be done and over with, but that's not how life works. Sorry to burst your bubble-but things, ESPECIALLY monumental changes to someone's lifestyle, take TIME.

[@melissamozambique]

I’m so interested in how the COVID epidemic has impacted the zero waste movement.

[@jayscott2769]

As a low waster, it is nearly impossible. Especially because of the importance of supporting local grocers, restaurants and small business as our economy is tanking.

[@rainecolubio]

It's very hard. When we were called back to the office, disposable masks were REQUIRED.

[@ah5721]

its made it hard to get anything plastic free. I used to be able to get lots of baked goods and things in bulk at Sprouts, not anymore - its in plastic baggies. I cant even order a 20lb bag in paper the distributers switched to pre bagging themi n plastic little sizes. I'm lucky that I even have a couple of local places that sell bulk. The soap store 18 min from me is great but the midwest is slow on the uptake , like everything else.

[@Hello_Gorgeous]

I'm worried honestly 🙁

[@jimash1672]

@@rainecolubio but can't you guys use cloth masks like just a suggestion: you can make ur own 2-3 layered cloth mask which is more or somewhat better than disposable ones since the cloth ones are 2-3 layered. Have a nice day or night ❤️

[@sagessedantan]

The author of Atomic Habits, James Clear, said something that applies so well to what you're describing: "If you focus on the number on the scale, rather than on becoming healthier, you'll start to do unhealthy things to see that number go down". The trash jar is like scale in that scenario; not what we should focus on! Thanks for sharing this video :)

[@oliviac295]

Wow, thanks for sharing. I think that sums it up!

[@plamoretti673]

I needed to read this

[@gonnacry442]

Woaa I just randomly stumbled here and found this comment and it's great timing 'cuz I've been trying to lose weight by eating right (exercise is well-enough) but somehow, the scale stayed from less to same. The quote makes absolute sense

[@myrrhsense]

Can we acknowledge the fact that toilet paper is also waste and that she probably doesn't put that in her jar

[@celo7carvalho]

i mean, I agree100% with boy in the video and she is definetly phony, BUT: reusable personal towels are a thing

[@sibam5092]

I believe she says she used to compost it , but she now has a bidet.

[@nothx6420]

toliet paper disolves in water so simply flushing it gets rid of it

[@odessaollandini7198]

no thx but the waste is still there

[@dongysakura418]

Ewww. 🤢 You can used a bidet

[@nicolefancy69]

I like to imagine Robert had an ex that gave him 1000 plastic straws because it was just too specific

[@gregdubya1993]

Yeah, that one had some pain on it.

[@melanatedgod5337]

Real shit. 😂😂😂

[@kelseycoca]

I think the original author had an ex but who can't relate to an ex giving you hundreds of plastic straws.

[@themyofmy]

@@kelseycoca ?

[@kelseycoca]

@@themyofmy the author of the no waste article he referenced*

[@itstatilol4392]

The condoms make me so angry too! Even if they were biodegradable, there’s no way the emissions from cross-country shipping have less of an impact than three normal condoms would make

[@Redorgreenful]

And the emissions and costs of producing so many of these tins!

[@reylime2991]

Latex is already biodegradable i’m sure💀. It literally comes from trees. What about condoms isn’t biodegradable?!?! That’s why there’s an expiration on them.

[@carolinablue6987]

I want to see her jar of used tampons.

[@fredhasopinions]

Ah yes, the absolute staple of modern pollution issues: condoms

[@svogel6459]

@@carolinablue6987 she probably uses menstrual cups

[@superhotninjacat]

Ngl, I expected an angry video on how stupid she was for being that extreme in her zero waste movement, but what I got was a well-informed person making a good argument for why the specific brand of Lauren singer zero waste is harmful and suggestions for how to do better. Honestly a very good video

[@helenhatter]

Also I assume she's been to the doctor or hospitals, dentist, etc within 8 years. Is she going to take the latex gloves the doctor wears or the pill packaging they used for her jar? It's better to focus on reducing waste, instead of focusing on creating the illusion that you produce no waste

[@marieantoinette4587]

"It's better to focus on reducing waste, instead of focusing on creating the illusion that you produce no waste" SAY IT LOUDER FOR THE PEOPLE IN THE BACK!!!!!!!!!!! AMEN! PERIODT.

[@icon6200]

yes! it’s people like her who make people not want to join the reduced waste movement (although possibly unintentional), because it seems so unreasonable.

[@belen4485]

That's what i was thinking about, bc even tho if you go to a restaurant to eat, the cooks are going to pick ingriedents that maybe are packed in plastic!

[@laur-unstagenameactuallyca1587]

YES!!!

[@karya7118]

Exactly, some jobs have waste requirments. We can do our best but we shouldn’t kid ourselves. I sculpt and yes a huge chunk of dry clay and newspaper is perfectly decomposable- but unless I grab a sledgehammer, break it down to bits and sprinkle it across a park... I must be honest about that being in my waste. Safe waste is still waste when it goes to a landfill.

[@ahwhwhshwhs]

this is why people say there is no ethical consumption under capitalism: you can try as hard as you want to minimise your impact environmentally but you have no control over the ethical and environmental violations made by those who produce the things you need. what lauren is doing is not only disingenuous in that she is lying about the amount of waste she herself is actually making, but is literally overseeing a business that does the same thing she is so against-making large amounts of waste and convincing her consumers that they are responsible in order to make money.

[@madday9589]

Jackdw31 Other economic systems aren't really any better. Capitalism follows the market & what ppl demand. The truth is that most ppl just don't care, the corporations don't care because ppl don't. If most ppl demanded it the businesses would reduce their waste & environmental impact. At least capitalism allows the country to thrive which improves quality of life but if we want to make a change with businesses, that power lies with the people & what they demand

[@gcc2313]

Ana Shan While I kind of agree with some of your points. you are also making it seem better and simpler then it really is. Everything has pros and cons. We put up laws and regulations surrounding environmental issues because we do care. We start organizations,petitions and donate because we do care. We know that we can’t live in an environment with toxic air and water and destroying nature because we still depend on it. You’re on a video about reducing waste after all. But many companies break those laws and try to pay their way out when they’re caught. The main drive is typically profit not that people don’t care. Otherwise they wouldn’t bother marketing themselves as sustainable, it’s a selling point because many people care. The same goes for inclusivity etc. Some people don’t care because people are either selfish, don’t grasp the true severity of the issue. Or they’re broke and can’t afford anything but the cheapest products. Capitalism may allow countries to strive and gives some people a better life quality. But usually at the expense of others. And the benefits are mostly concentrated in the upper few percent. If we look at very rich and extremely capitalist countries like the us you can see that they give up a lot for capitalism. and end up coming around and adding more socialist qualities. Because at some point people get fed up with living in a countries with one of the highest gdp per capita in the world but also have many homeless people or those not being able to afford food and rent. And no affordable good quality healthcare and education. Because they capitalize off everything. There is indeed power in what the people want and demand. But we’re never that united to force that change and companies know and abuse that.

[@turtletail313]

@@gcc2313 Capitalism has nothing to do with waste production. Every society on Earth creates enormous amounts of waste. Even if all corporations were owned by the government (which is such a scary idea if you think about it), there would still be waste. Why? Because there is nowhere near enough money in the world to supply millions upon millions of people with a sustainable zero-waste lifestyle. Not to mention the fact that no society in history has successfully achieved socialism or communism; and those that have tried, such as Cuba and China, can hardly be representatives for sustainability. China has built its entire economy on producing trash. Basically, all I'm saying is you can only make an argument for socialism if your claim is that it will eliminate social inequality. But you simply cannot claim that it will also eliminate all waste. You're living in a fantasy land with no proof to back up your beliefs.

[@ahwhwhshwhs]

Ana Shan-i agree with you that regardless of economic system, people produce waste; that much is simply fact. my comment was not a criticism of capitalism as entirely responsible for all waste, but on the capitalist ideal of individual responsibility. lauren singer’s affluent way of life is sponsored by hypocrisy and by convincing people who aren’t as well off as she is that they are responsible for the waste they have no stake in creating. capitalism thrives on a culture of excessive consumerism, because proletarian wealth is funnelled up to the bourgeoisie, and the waste that they necessitate is what goes back down. a lot of what you are saying comes from the assumption that people are individually responsible for the exploitative nature of big business-they aren’t.

[@ahwhwhshwhs]

Turtle Tail-again, no one is saying waste ONLY happens in a capitalist system. waste is, however, necessary to capitalism’s goals of furthering the gap in wealth. there are actually a fair few examples of socialism working-allende’s chile, sankara’s burkina faso, tribal socialism in africa-most of which have been undermined by capitalist colonialism. there are many different types of socialist ideology, and not all of them are authoritarian like china or corrupted by american influence like cuba. a lot of your argument is just making false assumptions about what else we believe then attacking those false beliefs rather than actually engaging with what we are saying.

[@strikerchampi]

Went to college with her. We ordered delivery at her apartment for a school meeting once and she made the delivery driver come back to get her cutlery and napkins that they accidentally gave with the order. Which pissed him off and I’m sure he just threw away in her own building.

[@happyfacefries]

And a waste of gas.

[@ssharkbait]

I guess green house gases don’t matter to her in regards to the environment. Making someone drive back and forth. Just because she isn’t throwing them away, the driver most definitely did. At least of it went to someone else they would’ve been actually used. So she basically by proxy threw away and wasted those things.

[@facelessdrone]

She could've just used them so they didn't turn into waste and then had extra silverware for her guests? Thats what my family used to do when we were super tight on money

[@RaizerZ]

Sure you did random internet stranger

[@supervolutto]

She related her experiences and confessed she used a loooot of plastic when she went to college. THEN she realized how harmful and nonsens it was.

[@Star-rp7vy]

Quick tip!!: "Eco-Bricks" are 1 liter plastic bottles filled to the brim with plastic and waste until theyre as heavy and dense as concrete. Great alternative to the jar!! Many organizations take donations of them to do things such as build houses!

[@margoshuteran7988]

This is amazing, thank you for letting me know!!!

[@arletblues]

I'm going to buy some! I have a wall in my garden that is destroyed so I'll rebuild it

[@9melissal]

Unfortunately this isn't safe as it would melt and release carcinogens in a fire, basically creating a death trap for anyone in the house.

[@Star-rp7vy]

@@9melissal It actually is safe, as the bottles are encased in concrete!

[@kaydavidson5535]

I always personally felt that some zero waste lifestyle stuff is trying to completely blame global waste of individual people (no hate to people who chose a zero waste lifestyle). When In reality most global waste comes from corrupt companies and if we blame the individual it distracts us from holding These companies accountable

[@evan8567]

this is so true. also the zero waste movement focuses too much on materialism (buying new things in order to get into the lifestyle). it's dangerous to place the blame on the consumer rather than the producer

[@lucia5227]

This!!!!

[@oliviasteven1796]

That’s true, but we still do support them. Obviously having the option to avoid terrible companies is privilege, I’m able to to avoid fast fashion because I can afford a pair of jeans from a sustainable company, or I have access to good second hand clothing. Sustainability needs to become more accessible to actually be possible, an expensive fancy tin of condoms probably isn’t 😂

[@luciabreccia1901]

Thank you!!!!! I've always wondered the same thing, I'm glad people notice that.

[@whalienreader1261]

Yes EXACTLY

[@alexandrakershner4463]

Yess, I started going zero waste and it just felt unattainable with all the pretty mason jars and metal bento boxes and my wallet was SCREAMING for help that I just gave up. Now I find I’m actually more zero waste than when I was trying to be as I’m incredibly aware of plastic bag usage, car mileage, etc. The zero waste movement has just started to take on this idea that you’ll never be good enough till your trash fits in a jar-completely discouraging people from even trying in the first place.

[@buttonsnrubbish]

For me, focusing on sustainability and buying second hand have helped my low waste lifestyle.

[@TwinkiesPiano]

@@buttonsnrubbish little by little is good cause at one point those little changes become your new normal. I started out with minimalism and would beat myself up over not being able to decline a purse my sis had gifted me for Christmas cause it wasn't my taste 👀😂 now I'm over that and it's not even minimalism anymore, it's become how I think and approach my things and what I buy. As for Less Waste, I had some t-shirts with tiny annoying holes near the bottom and I tore it up, cut into lil squares and sewed them up into tiny napkins that I can use instead of paper towels. Not much, but it's something 😊

[@hachir5648]

The problem is, zero waste should not be buy more things because of the aesthetics. What zero waste influencera sells you is only an aesthetic, unachievable if you don't want to waste money and resources

[@KateeAngel]

Wait, you cannot have a car and claim you are "zero waste" at all... Right?

[@macarooni4023]

Kate S yup even if it’s electric cause of the waste that was caused during production.

[@yourstrulynina1524]

she’s the perfect example of “fix it” instead of “prevent it”

[@didi9126]

I got a big fat serving of serotonin whenever you said "environmental no-no". It made me giggle.

[@alexwei4956]

Honestly props to Kellogg for coming out and talking about everything wrong with the jar.

[@Shelbizleee]

THANK YOU for speaking on this when many of us felt we couldn't... I'll just leave it at that 🤭

[@-MaryPoppins-]

Colin McKenna there’s not reason for her to lie or exaggerate. She can inspire by telling the truth!!!!

[@RobertTolppi]

My sister loves your channel! You're amazing.

[@LaloMacKenzie]

Omg i’ve been obsession-watching your content Shelbizleee and then here you are-cameo!!!

[@CF.]

I’ve been thinking about this concept a lot lately.

[@shmooley2626]

Shelbizlee, your the first person to make sustainability seem possible, as a lifestyle, to me! Your channel is awesome!

[@raeyned]

It's sad to know that even the zero-waste community is somewhat toxic. Even when it comes to making Earth a better place.

[@klaudiaklaudia7155]

I think it shouldn't even be called zero waste bc that is already unattainable. Some people start to realise that and call it less waste or just living sustainably

[@mechanomics2649]

@@klaudiaklaudia7155 It absolutely is not unattainable.

[@klaudiaklaudia7155]

@@mechanomics2649 maybe if you live in a countryside and produce things you need yourself and have a community of people who are focused on living zero waste it would be somehow attainable. But generally it's not realistic

[@mightytaiger3000]

It’s sadder that you guys reach so hard to make everything “problematic”.

[@verybarebones]

Every community centered around social media is gonna be toxic because no matter how good something is, people will lie to make themselves seem better than the rest.

[@likira111]

I remember I looked up her opinions on condoms and she desperately urged anyone not to put zero waste above their personal health and to find environmentally friendly companies, so I knew the jar wasn't 100% accurate but I understand not wanting to carry around years of used condoms.

[@carolinethecreator1982]

OMG I tried contacting her for a science project and she sent me a copy and pasted response plugging her merch 💀

[@aknurlukpan8542]

I was also questioning her trash jar because in all of her interviews, you can see new kitchen appliances, new tech and etc. Basically things that come with a sea of packaging made from plastic and styrofoam. That all can’t just fit in a jar. Also she says she makes her cleaning products from scratch. The ingredients of cleaning products probably come packaged ( for example: baking soda is always packed), so that’s also a lot of trash. I still respect her because I think she uses the trash jar to advertise the zero waste lifestyle, so more people join the lifestyle. But it still creates this unrealistic expectation for new zero-wasters, so she should be more open about the amount of trash she creates.

[@Kath-Erina]

Most apllinaces etc come packaged in cardboard boxes and cardboard is recyclable, so she probably doesn't count it as 'trash'

[@bsidethebox]

@@Kath-Erina True. But. I just bought two large countertop appliances, so this is fresh in my mind (and bins). While they both came in large (recyclable) corrugated cardboard boxes with large (recyclable) molded paper-pulp inserts instead of the older (technically recyclable but rarely actually accepted anywhere for recycling) block-styrofoam inserts, the boxes were sealed with enough plastic tape and stickers to fill a mason jar by themselves, and units themselves came 1) wrapped in a /maybe/ -recyclable-at-the-supermarket plastic film bag, with holes in it so they aren't useful to reuse as a bag, 2) with a plastic so-satisfying-to-peel sticker over the stainless steel and glass portions(trash), 3) with individually plastic-bagged (probably recyclable at store dropoff but not printed with any information so it's iffy) accessories sealed with a 2-material non-recyclable strip of tape, and 4) the paper instruction manual in a (Google-says-it-could-be-recyclable-but-my-local-recycler-will-not-accept-or-process-it) clear acetate sleeve. The power cords come with giant plastic warning stickers and wrapped with reusable-but-at-this-point-I-have-more-than-I'd-ever-use-in-a-lifetime plastic coated wire twist ties. I mean...they go in a jar for reuse, but I have about a hundred and use them almost never, so basically they're just living in purgatory until I inevitably trash the whole jar when I have to move houses. You could get away with buying used, or store floor models, in which case the unwrapping and trashing was done by someone else...but that's a weird "semantics" way of doing things. The jar is a powerful attention-grabber, when you hear it holds a years worth of trash...but when you hear 6 years I kinda feel like it just invites an eyeroll and instant dismissal from anyone who has paid /some/ attention to how recycling and packaging works.

[@ImNotCallingYouALiar]

mila maria What about the non-recyclable styrofoam it comes packed with?

[@Kath-Erina]

@@bsidethebox I totally get what your saying and totally forgot about different recycling systems in different country's. Where I live we have an extra recycling category for plastic packaging/wrapping. So all the stickers, sleeves, peel-off protectors, Styrofoam etc would go in there so if I'm not forgetting anything (at least where I live) wouldn't be any "trash" left over. But on the other hand I've heard in our country we do collect it but basically 80% of it will be 'used thermicaly' wich means they burn it and take the heat as a source of energy. Which is incredibly bad for the environment... So I guess you have a point there

[@antibiryaniacct221]

i thought the same thing! it reminded me about this video i saw about all these old computers and appliances ending up in ghana and contributing to a lot of health and environmental problems there.

[@ColorsOfOrion]

"Zero waste" is like perfection: Tho we should always strive towards it, it is unreachable. And those who claim to be, are straight up lying

[@ohbooyah6006]

i suggest you try to watch videos from goodful, a channel. one of the people there says that you don't need to have no waste to be considered practicing zero waste lifestyle. it is about, trying to have the better alternative that can produce less waste, until you can attain minimal to no waste. Stay safe, and please keep being green on your own! A lot of ways, not only the mason jar thing, can help make the world a Greener place.

[@rainbowradicals5372]

That jade roller at $30 + though.Looks identical to those on Ali Express for a couple of dollars

[@theab3957]

I was just thinking that. Probably the same manufacturer lol.

[@nottocleverxx614]

Looks exactly like the one I get a the Dollar Tree.....

[@brisuschrist5942]

I also do not think that she could have kept only a jar full of trash over eight years. It isn’t great to lie about being a “great role model to the eco-friendly community” if you aren’t putting all your trash in the jar, girl.

[@masinka4447]

I like your pfp

[@brisuschrist5942]

Masinka thanks XD

[@theweirdkid8585]

Yea

[@leahnielsen2954]

Brisus christ never thought Iwould see you here... ( I’m not crazy just a Queen fan )

[@brisuschrist5942]

Stoppet Nielsen omg what a coincidence

[@saturn4rchive]

The whole business thing about her is what threw me off the most, it reminds me of how a couple months ago I ordered a set of reusable grocery bags because I was tired of accumulating the plastic ones. I did my research, placed my order, it came a week later in a cute little cardboard box, I was so excited to open it and what's inside first thing? Plastic packing air pockets. For cotton reusable bags. From a so-called "eco friendly company". I don't even know what to say anymore |:

[@Kath-Erina]

I totally get it. Asos for example (fast fashion brand) got rid of the printed return paper and sticker for environmentaly reasons, woch is good of course, but ship their orders in big plastic bags.. At first this really threw me off thinking why, but the reason is actually quite logical. Order in a plastic bag is a a lot more lightweight than a cardboard box AND you can fit so many more orders in one truck. This means less trucks, that are less heavy, which means less emission during transport. So coming back to your piont, paper stuffing is much heavyer than sealed plastic air pockets. It's not always black and white..

[@editazilinskyte3681]

@@Kath-Erina that's a wonderful point. I think it had become inheritly bad to use plastic for anything and paper is degradable. But that actually makes sense. Rather than making it look "eco" they actually did it.

[@ThirrinDiamond]

@@editazilinskyte3681 i want "rather than making it look eco, they actually did it" on a poster

[@mushu6928]

they don’t even need it as well, the bag in no way is fragile

[@Kath-Erina]

@@mushu6928 that's a very good point though!! You are absolutely right for this specific product they could just leave it all together

[@crowsquared]

My “method” of “zero waste” is just -hoarding- _collecting_ everything lol.

[@Poodleinacan]

At the store: Cashier : "Do you want the receipt?" Her: "No." Also her: "I make less trash than most people."

[@9melissal]

This is what always stands out to me. These people say they don't want a receipt but almost all stores, the receipt prints automatically whether you take it or not.

[@Poodleinacan]

@@9melissal where I live, most stores also use in preferential plastic bags. Paper bags are either hidden, farther from the customer in self-serving cashiers (or non-existant) or the baggers take plastic bags instead of the readily available paper ones (and you have to specify that you want to use the paper bags like you have to specify that you don't want ice in your soda at fast foods). Sometimes, the cashier may even say that the paper bags are fragile... Like bitch, it's cardboard! It's even tougher than the regular plastic bags! You can carry more and heavier things in them without worrying that it'll stretch and break the bag.

[@jevantepaige3622]

She lives in New York you’re telling me she never used a metro card ?

[@obscurus4339]

Yeah. When I was in Europe, some metros had reusable plastic metro cards that you just refilled much like a debit card

[@recycledhips]

BentoBuff you can refill metro cards in NYC

[@jevantepaige3622]

Metro cards expire...

[@lavenderhazel5125]

Although you can refill them, they expire so you will have to purchase another one. So she would have to purchase another metro card every year.... didn’t see a metro card in her jar though....

[@ilovethebroadway]

@@lavenderhazel5125 maybe she lives walks/bikes everywhere? but yeah, it would be nice to have seen a metro card in there, if she did travel via subway.

[@emilyfletcher7124]

My biggest problem is, do you never get sick?! Cold and flu medicine, supplements, antibiotics? That has packaging that you can't do anything with. I remember she had those plastic seals from vitamin bottles but what about blister packs of pills?!

[@athoswolff776]

As someone trying to go zero waste: its okay to buy pill bottle as long as you repurpose them. Currently using as pots for planting spices and succulents.

[@lilascharmante2712]

They are recyclable. I can take my pills bottles back to my pharmacy.

[@yubima]

I use 3 medicaments, that dont come in bottles but im going to put them in what we have here as " eco ladrillo". I try to reduce the most i can but im never going to be zero waste, i did change to glass containers instead of plastics ones, but i will use those for plants or little tools i have arround.

[@makaelaischillin]

Yasin Jadauji Sickness is a normal part of life. It doesn’t matter what you eat or do. I knew a woman who smoked a pack of cigarettes a day and ate like a 5 year old and lived to be 98. Her sister ate healthily and exercised a bunch and died at 47.

[@ellaaryev922]

You can mail these items in through Terracycle's national recycling programs.

[@Anaandreasi]

I loved how polite you sounded. This video did not sounded like a takedown or an attack whatsoever, and that's so rare to see.

[@patrickaaroncraig9239]

i think the main problem with the zero waste jar is that it looks so perfect that the average person could be discoraged from going low waste becasuse they feel like they can't make a difference when really it's better if everyone went imperfectly low waste then a couple of influencers being "perfectly" low waste

[@thepanda9782]

I'm so glad you mentioned the "buying less stuff" part of reducing waste. A lot of the things we do that produce extra waste are purely for aesthetic reasons. Eg) right now I have a huge urge to buy new decoration items bc I have this weird issue where I have to reorganize my living space otherwise I go crazy bc it feels 'stale'....but I haven't done that; I cleaned up and rearranged some of the stuff I already had and it looks nice and fresh. This could apply to clothing, hobbies, stationary, makeup, etc. She could be giving people advice to help them reduce their consumption habits...but wants to make more money instead.

[@ionaf9]

Exactly! People often forget that "reduce, reuse, recycle" should be done in order. The first step is reducing consumption, then reusing, and recycling should be a last resort - it still has carbon implications and it's much better to not purchase things unnecessarily in the first place!

[@livewithintention1625]

You could try redecorating with natural materials that occur naturally; a pressed flower print made with fried petals, autumnal leaves made into a wreath, a vase of flowers, a gem stone or crystal strung in front of your window to give reflective light throughout the room, a dream catcher made from willow branches and feathers. You could find stuff like that in nature (except the gem stone maybe lol, unless you really know where to look) and when you get tired of it or it breaks, just give it back to nature ❤️

[@Maevemarlowe]

Yeah, I think a lot of people have problems with buying stuff they don’t need. Same with me. I think a cooler thing to decorate a space is to make your own stuff, so then you have an emotional connection to it and you have to work hard to have it. Then your space really is you.

[@iciajay6891]

I do this. I only buy second hand items as well.

[@marjakarjalainen9547]

yeah!! i love thrifting- it saves money and you find a bunch of unique pieces to decorate with!

[@lpsmaker11]

She's selling an image that when one normal person tries it causes "eco-anxiety", cause it can be pretty expansive or unrealistic. I do what I can but theres not one bulk store here in Puerto Rico. It's not acknowledging the diferent situations, enviroments and goverments.

[@RobertTolppi]

She has some issues with this. She made an Insta post a while ago to the tune of "everyone can go zero waste." It's a little inconsiderate.

[@peachysandie]

I have never heard of bulk stores in Norway, there might be some, but I've never heard of it. The closest you get to that is the produce isle in a grocery store, or the loose weight candy.

[@laneyb8911]

Exactly! The only bulk store near me - since whole foods never has anything in stock anymore - closed and it was still 40 minutes away. There is a lot of privilege in zero waste and I notice this is not a known concept in a lot of zero waste communities. I looovee Sedona Cristina because she personally addresses availability as well as convenience and her channel eased some of my "eco-anxiety".

[@priscillajimenez27]

I live in Orlando and due to the pandemic the only bulk store permanently closed

[@AnnoyingAsianWitch]

This just this. I work a minimum wage in a smaller town in Malaysia. It's not sustainable or affordable for me to do this mason jar garbage or go on a nutritional vegan diet since our purchase options are limited compared to the capital city, even then I can't afford it.

[@nivedanahta7451]

Got one word Frugality. Be frugal and you'll be eco-friendly to a large extent! As simple as that.

[@emilykoontz7693]

Yes!

[@tessaawoods]

I applied for an (unpaid) internship with Package Free back in 2017, I remember seeing her office was full of white women. While I do love supporting women-owned businesses, when it lacks diveristy and inclusion, it really turned me away. Also, it was an unpaid internship. I also like how you brought up that, "we can't shop our way out of our wasteful lifestyles."

[@sigridbdale]

I went straight from Tiktok with NO hesitation

[@sabihashoyab2066]

Bruh same

[@neptunesedge9123]

Same

[@holliesara]

Same 😂❤️

[@kiers10saison39]

i came from tiktok and it was so worth it!!

[@piggygaming6985]

IKR

[@amandar7524]

Same

[@joannahumphrey8855]

sameee

[@fatal_goose4017]

Same!

[@sophieee9010]

yupp!!

[@jspihlman]

There are small things people can do to make an impact that don't involve going full on crazy trying to be zero waste: reusable shopping bags, reusable produce bags, recycling, composting, avoid fast fashion and wearing old clothes until they are worn out, etc. You don't even need to go all in. If all you do is just collect cans and turn them in it does help.

[@ohbooyah6006]

that in itself is part of the zero waste lifestyle, I think.

[@DanielMartinez-bw3tf]

Good job. At first I was like who the hell does this kid think he is. Three minutes I’m like yeah ima listen to whole thing, it’s pretty good

[@Monthlyjune]

her mask on her website is 22$ when you can get a 4$ one from target with probably the same amount of waste used

[@insomnia5448]

What? You could buy a reusable mask for 3$ and problem solved! I can't fathom

[@Hannah-nc7cb]

Her mask is probably made biodegradable cotton 😐

[@user-ol4cv3vv2i]

You're paying an additional $20 for no plastic bag. Her brand is classist and recently hiked up its prices.

[@witchysshame]

what about junk mail, is she really gonna put it in the jar? i doubt it

[@aashnasadeque9822]

recycle

[@RobertTolppi]

I'm sure she recycles what she can, but 8 years of those plastic privacy envelope covers would fill that entire jar.

[@sarah-zh8ko]

i mean my family and i send junk mail back but it’s just gonna get thrown away and if you recycle not everything is recyclable

[@mika-jx1tx]

environmentalists always avoid recieving mail tho

[@azuenkageyama]

@Pia Pia we also have those in Portugal but people still put junk in the mailboxes lol 😂😂😂

[@meganb8012]

it’s kind of strange because i was just thinking about the jar person and how bad it made me feel about myself lmfao

[@likira111]

I remember I looked up her opinions on condoms and she desperately urged anyone not to put zero waste above their personal health and to find environmentally friendly companies, so I knew the jar wasn't 100% accurate but I understand not wanting to carry around years of used condoms.

[@samaraisnt]

@@likira111 I understand the "used" part but the disposable wrappers would absolutely be a greater visual signifier of true waste and a lot more honest. The problem I have is it's not transparent. She throws away single use things that are given to her which should be part of the narrative of unavoidable trash...maybe it's a class thing but I would never make a minimum wage worker take back my trash or demand that they instead dispose of my personal plastic. I would understand it as a burden of the wasteful (actual) world rather than the ideal world she created of 0 waste. I would definitely carry around old condom wrappers (even as a woman), it's real waste I produced, and there are 0 waste alternatives.

[@bl0ndiey]

You are very well-spoken! And not trying to be hateful, just educational and wanting to open the topic up for discussion. I admire that!

[@user-eq3sz2xy6c]

There is not such thing as zero waste but there is a thing called less waste as much as possible which is more realistic

[@brureis3449]

"ecology without class struggle is gardening" - Chico Mendes

[@Redorgreenful]

I have to steal this. This is too good.

[@algumnomeaihehe]

the only correct take

[@miam.g]

Btw she just took part in an interview where she talked about using plastic packaged products because of the pandemic. Thought you might be interested :)

[@itsthecharlz]

As many others in this comment section have stated, I was also discouraged from trying the whole zero waste thing because of the trash jar. But I've since started simply doing what I can to reduce my negative impact on the environment. I buy the most locally produced items (especially produce) and the least packaged ones. I eat meat mayyybe twice a month and then I buy it from a butcher that sources locally. I take canvas bags to the supermarket (many or all (?) have completely gotten rid of plastic bags anyway). I don't own a car (yay public transport). I've decided to not fly unless visiting family overseas. Ive started buying fabrics that were produced in my country to see some of my clothes myself. I'm doing my best. Could I do more? Theoretically yes. But in my financial situation... not really. But that's okay. Even trying is better than not to attempt reducing your waste at all

[@alyssapizzi5066]

I highly recommend Sustainably Vegan Shelbizzle or Girl Gone Green. They’ve shifted towards and more “low impact” model of that I think is more inclusive. It’s much more than just physical waste and more about life cycle and carbon footprint. I think so many people get fixated on physical waste and the aesthetics of this lifestyle.

[@nadiraadiswari3077]

Also fairyland cottage! She's one of those more encouraging and realistic environmentalists!💕

[@nicolewaithera1814]

@@nadiraadiswari3077 thanks for the suggestion!

[@odessaollandini7198]

It is all about small sustainable choices and changes start small and build up when you buy a new thing try and get a more environmentally friendly choice if it is when your buying bulk dry food to try and go to a low waste shop

[@TheGooglyminotaur]

I don’t think ‘inclusive’ is the problem. It’s honesty.

[@nestigator]

and Levi Hildebrand!

[@lexib2154]

“or you’re given a gift of one thousand plastic straws by your spiteful ex-boyfriend” *what a legend*

[@dongysakura418]

No really

[@schlagie]

@@dongysakura418 ??

[@dongysakura418]

@@schlagie I meant not really. for the earth

[@GilbertGTV]

Hahahahaha that man would be LEGEND!

[@allilong5005]

@@dongysakura418 my theory is instead of throwing away straws by themselves I put them into like the jugs of juice (I forgot what they're called) I just think it makes it less likely for them to get ate in the ocean. but it probably doesnt do anything (I use reusable straws just like straws from Starbucks)

[@gage3180]

I never thought I'd hear someone say "idk why these condoms are making me so angry"

[@alphadelalune3740]

I still stan, she was the person that introduced me to the lifestyle! I understand all of your points and I'm sure she's aware of the negative impact her business is making. After all - you don't start collecting your trash in a mason jar if you don't have eco-anxiety in the first place. Thank goodness we even have zero-waste influencers instead of exclusively influencers who people follow just bc they hot

[@emiewolfe7850]

I was expecting this to be really negative and bitchy but you actually make some good points. 'zero' waste is a myth but it is SO important we all reduce our waste as much as possible, so I do appreciate her bringing attention to this

[@randommob2806]

Here’s the thing, us as individuals can not make a significant impact, that’s a lie created by corporations who are actively destroying the environment on an incredible scale. It’s not us, though it’s a nice thing to do like being polite or putting your shopping cart away. But we need to focus on legislation that impacts corporations dumping and polluting.

[@beep3242]

@@randommob2806 This, absolutely. It's a thing we should still try to do, but it's just a little drop in a giant ocean that is produced waste. It's more realistic to go after the bigger fish, those being corporations who do have the money to do better.

[@alexsayshi6782]

@@randommob2806 definitely agree w this

[@caitlinb8781]

I don’t agree with the way she posts because it discourages people who want to make less waste as they often feel overwhelmed and insignificant but I have found that most ‘single use’ items are reusable, like plastic cups from Starbucks can be cleaned and used at parties, plastic bags used every time and even if the store Clark does give you one, you can give it back, and with broken appliances, you can break it down for parts to be reused, however, I agree, it would be impossible to keep 8 years of rubbish in a jar, zero waste is about doing what you can, and people often like to judge others who aren’t perfect which puts them off, just try your hardest to remember to bring your reusable cup and reuse the plastic ziploc bags

[@RobertTolppi]

Caitlin B Amazing comment right here. So true. To everyone who is dedicated to reducing their amount of waste they produce, thank you!

[@cocolouie4232]

ok but like what about her on her period? there’s no way

[@caitlinb8781]

Coco Louie no I actually have zero waste periods (al though it’s a lot easier now we’re all stuck at home) I use a reusable moon cup and reusable cloth pads for extra protection, you can probably find some on eBay for cheap and they’re very economically sensible as the average women spends £18000 on period products in her lifetime but you only buy these once

[@humppapomppa1186]

Using my teeny tiny IUD for some years now made even my moon cup useless. But yes, changing it every 5-8 yrs makes a one handful of trash, mostly paper based.

[@odessaollandini7198]

I am working on my waste but i am still making waste like ones a week i am putting out the rubbish but now it is half the amount of landfill and everything that can be recycled is being recycled

[@enough2715]

I know its interesting to deconstruct these "zero waste" phoney ppl, but I can't help but feel its starting to become like some sort of new drama community, like the makeup community. It feels like people are coming after them because they feel personally attacked by this lifestyle they can't obtain. Instead of focusing on these people we need to have actual conversations about cutting down waste. That's not to say this video isn't good and informative, because it is!

[@elizabeththornton8982]

There’s no point holding yourself to a “zero waste” standard and bearing yourself up when you fall short, just do your best ! It’s way more productive

[@annifv]

There’s no ethical consumption under capitalism 🧚🏼‍♂️

[@terezastepankova7036]

there's no waste in ba sing se

[@gabriellastauffer]

@@terezastepankova7036 AHAHAHA

[@walkingaround360]

So Where Can It Be Ethical consumption? Because consumption comes with capitalism, in other systems you are not free to consume as you want

[@icebear8793]

ohh this one got me thinking...

[@uncreativename6210]

Is there ethical consumption under communism, then?

[@anikaperry3017]

you also remind me of john green

[@MsShingstar]

yess!! thats it!

[@JD-zz3lf]

100%

[@ailuaras]

Thank you so much for this video. I own a small eco-friendly store as well. And sometimes I get caught up by my competitors who are selling really well. This video made me realize and brought me back to my core value of why I started the business in the first place, to save the earth, not to destroy it even more. Thank you so much!

[@tylerlindsey4772]

can we stop calling instagram 'influencers' marketing geniuses? That ain't it.

[@gobblenobble3433]

As someone that just graduated from college with a degree in sustainability this video is very important, I’m really gonna share this with people I know, thank you!!!

[@RobertTolppi]

Please do!

[@IngridsVanlife]

It's wise to be aware of what lies behind, but still, Lauren lives far less wasteful than I myself do, and still provides good inspiration for continuing on my journey.

[@sandratran8335]

I agree! Lauren was the one who inspired me to be more low waste and introduced me to many products and methods I never heard of before:)

[@ckevorkianxo]

@Ingrid Marie Kjelseth Which is why Robert said it would be great if she could tweak some aspects of what HER brand has become because it is going against what “created” her... Making things that on every level (from what I’ve seen on her Vox episode) could be considered “your untouched-messy-draw worthy” kind of crap. Which translated; Her actions have become hypocritical. So she’s selling all you “the story” while not doing her part..?

[@rcr257]

She doesn't live a less wasteful life because she owns a company

[@caylarose6658]

I'm a very very small business owner. I am not a zero waste person but I will even reuse packaging from stuff I order for myself to use to ship my products sometimes. It's not hard to find ways to help minimize your waste when it comes to selling product. But there is no way that you can make it "waste free" and the ppl who live by that should understand lol 😆 ppl need to think and use thier brains instead of just going off what others say. I really like this video and your way of calling ppl out lol

[@skitskit333]

this man spits facts every single MINUTE. his passion for this work really shows!

[@ohbooyah6006]

I just want you to know that some of the things he said is not true. Lauren avoids getting plastic cups when she buys coffee, based on the Vox video. and she also says to use tote bags instead of plastic ones.

[@LunaMoon84]

*looking at the 65 thumbs down* why are you booing him? He’s right!

[@jedithekitten8891]

Now it’s 115, some people can’t tell fact from fiction. This video being fact :)

[@User-xk3nw]

This video provided assumptions and guesses and jumped to conclusions. He has not spoken to this woman personally but makes all these claims about her and her lifestyle which may or may not be true. That is why i disliked. There is no solid evidence given of her hiding waste. Just guessng and assuptions. I found this video rude. Obviously her lifestyle is not realistic to the average person, definitely not for me, but who are we to say her lifestyle is fake... without any proof. All people are doing is assuming in this comment section and in the video. No solid proof.

[@mischa2643]

minted oil I mean her brand new appliances and tech that routinely pop up in the background of her vids, in addition to the cleaning products she makes from scratch.... all of these come in packaging. Plastic, cardboard, styrofoam-and none of it in the jar. Not even a box or other packet of baking soda which is one of the main ingredients in some of her cleaners and such. I get that the jar is a nice lure for folks to come explore the zero waste lifestyle, but honesty would serve better. I buy the floor model when I can because the occasional ding or scratch (and occasionally a little discount is nice too) is worth not having all the packaging in my eyes. Most of my tech is secondhand-my phone is four generations out of date. Things along this line. I’d have far more respect if she spoke as to how she managed such issues rather than just toting her jar about and bragging over it.

[@creedsacrifice1]

It's Lauren and her minions lol

[@kimwagner8350]

@@mischa2643 You do know she recycles tho right lmao

[@SustainablyVegan]

And your hard work clearly pays off! Thank you for such a well informed and comprehensive video. I gave up on the 'trash jar' probably after only 6 months of trying to use it. It made me feel like such a failure and just wasn't what lowering your waste and raising awareness is supposed to be about. Thanks for this video, I appreciate the hard work you put in to it.

[@lindsaygarcia9131]

Hi Immy :) I love your channel and actually found this video after watching your sustainable daily habits you actually do. Your garden is looking great by the way! I live in an apartment and grow some vegetables & fruits in pots on my porch, and I agree that it is so very rewarding when they produce and you grew it all yourself :)

[@wldlvndr9934]

"I don't know why these condoms are making me so angry." 😂

[@tallulahgrace_]

I encounter the argument a lot that individual actions do not have any noteworthy effects, and thus that people like Lauren Singer who claim to be ecological heroes are really not. Whilst there is some validity in this, most of us live in heavily capitalist societies, and I think social movements DO heavily influence the brands that rule our lives. In the past 10 years, we have seen vegan products hugely spike, brands commit to removing plastic straws, supermarkets remove single-use plastic bags etc. These actions are taken because people follow influencers like Lauren Singer who idolise this 'green' lifestyle, and capitalism is taking notice. I have always rejected the argument that individual change is unnecessary. I am 17 and climate change feels overwhelming to me, the only way I can counter my anxiety and anger is controlling what I can, which means being vegan, eating locally produced foods, and not buying plastic that I know will never be used. My actions affect my friends, and my friends slowly affect societal trends, so big brands notice and slowly, slowly, align their practices. Lauren Singer is not perfect but she inspired me when I was 15 to start researching my ecological footprint on a larger scale, and that is a far better influence from the internet than someone like Kylie Jenner's equally unattainable branding.

[@0.5views79]

Anyone else had this in their inbox without knowing anything about these people?

[@Kino_Cartoon]

Yeah but his video was great and I don't lneo why I looked at you pb, sorry 😂

[@Raphael3032]

meanwhile in the southern hemisphere, we literally recycle because we need to sell trash or we're gonna die of hunger

[@emilys2562]

Oof

[@katharina1474]

:(

[@somethingunusual8456]

Are you brazilian?

[@FallingStary]

You get paid by selling trash but here it costs money to recycle. The company I work for doesn't recycle even tho we have it labeled and blue cans like other locations. We dont do it because the cost of recycling is too high for them in my state.

[@queenjeski591]

FallingStary another reason why the us sucks ass and why their ecological footprint is huge. where i live there are government sanctioned recycling plants where you can go and recycle your trash, most apartment complexes also have ”recycling rooms” and there are mini recycling stations at every supermarket (for things like cardboard, metal, newspapers, plastic etc.). in places like japan they don’t even collect your trash if it’s not recycled right and i believe you can also get a fine if you don’t recycle.

[@muskanshrivastava9485]

This video is actually really informative and yeah I agree Lauren Singer and other businesses may send the wrong message that you have to buy their products to be more sustainable, when that is simply not true especially when her products are so expensive. I have a few things to say though. 1. Being sustainable and reducing your own personal waste is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT. You as a consumer basically cast a vote every single time you buy something, so if you buy something that is unsustainable, you basically tell that company you like their product, you're okay with it being produced and you'll buy more of it. That includes single-use plastic products like straws, fruit/veggies packaged in plastic, meat which contributes so much to global warming and environmental degradation, etc. Doing simple things such as buying pasta sauce in glass jars instead of plastic ones, or not buying useless things that are packaged in plastic or are plastic themselves is great and helpful. Even buying less junkfood, because that is often packaged in plastic that can not be recycled, plus it is better for your body if you stop buying it. That is just one example though. Being extremely low waste actually takes some time to achieve and a lot of effort (which is worth it in the end), but simple things you do to reduce your waste are soooo important. 2. Not all plastic is recyclable. Period. And under 10% of plastic actually gets recycled and thats mainly due to contamination. We really suck at recycling and we cant blame companies for not wanting to buy plastic that is not properly sorted, because then they have to spend more to get the material what they actually want and it drives up the price for production. 3. If you want to go low waste, its really important spend less money on things you dont need and use what you have. Consumerism is what kills the planet. If you need a glass jar, clean out that old pasta jar. My mom uses plastic Smucker for our spices, and I save glass jars/bottles for growing plants. Wanna stop using plastic water bottles, use that reusable water bottle you have instead of buying a new one. Need reusable shopping bags? You might have reusable bags lying around your house.REUSE REUSE REUSE and reduce the things you buy! Cause yeah, you do not need a jade roller. Oh and take care of your stuff so they'll last. 4. Ya'll need to stop buying new clothes all the time and then throwing them out. Fast fashion is major contribute to emissions, waste and the companies rely on cheap labor from other countries. If you need new clothes, try thrift shopping! And if you really do not want your clothes anymore, donate them to a reputable charity. Also, don't throw something out because it ripped, SEW DONT THROW! Learn to repair your items! 5. There are things we need to buy regularly, like soap and toothbrushes. But get bamboo toothbrushes instead of plastic ones, bar soap instead of body wash in plastic packaging, shampoo bars, etc. But do NOT BUY THEM from big brands. I know Colgate sells bamboo toothbrushes now but god knows if those are made sustainably. Buy from more sustainable brands if you can, just google them; some of them are decently affordable And even if they are not 100% sustainable, they're definitely better than the bigger brands. Basically, there are so many simple things to do to reduce your waste that do not involve buying all this stuff and there are so many more things that I didnt mention that can be done without breaking the bank and may actually save you money. Below are some instagram accounts for those of you who want to learn more about zero/low waste in an easy way. Insta @thezerowasteguide @erasingwaste @zerowaste.japan @zerowasteworldwide @wastenot_want KZbin Sedona Christina Simply by Christine Shelbizlee

[@ohbooyah6006]

and, this supports the zero waste movement. I do accept the ideas that her business is not all that positive, since most things have flaws, too. but I guess, what she is trying to do is to let her shop be another way to patronize reusable things, and to avoid single-use products. it doesn't mean that you are not having a "greener" life if you chose to buy from a different shop.

[@paxtonghandi1380]

"keeping stuff out of the jar" is a great metaphor for all greenwashing and the externalizing (not paying for) of polution by companies in general

[@Brookebeyerle]

I like how he talked about condoms for like 5-10 minutes

[@justmeyo4589]

Came straight from tik tok for this hot tea

[@mythicalclown535]

Yeah ❤️

[@user-fe6ne1er5k]

Mythical Clown yeah❤️

[@piperschiola-williams6215]

yeah❤️

[@des-di4cn]

Yeah ❤️

[@ppjskh]

I don't have TikTok, so can someone explain to me what the tea is? 👀

[@ravenmasque7156]

Not having receipts? Okay (for me) most stores I go to the register automatically prints a receipt. You not accepting the receipt does NOT qualify you as not having it as part of your trash. What it does mean…. You handed someone else your trash and said, ‘will you throw this away for me so it will count towards your trash not mine.”

[@TheCutestRulerOfEvil]

As someone who works in retail and is in charge of the truck possess and stocking, its honestly disgusting how much useless wasteful packaging everything comes in. Plastic jars come with little plastic cover on them, because people wont buy them if they have any scratches on them. This doesn't even go into how much of this crap comes broken and is pitched before it even reaches the floor.

[@beckklecan]

can i just say i love how you talk with your hands, it’s really engaging

[@RobertTolppi]

Thank you!

[@user-ug2fm5xq3q]

Robert Tolppi Are you sure you’re not Italian? 😂

[@vegetableoil3037]

Nobody: Not a living organism: Robert: *HEART ALL COMMENTS*

[@Bonnie-lo3zh]

You randomly popped up on my recommended and I’m happy you did lol

[@devons.3481]

found this in my yt recommended, this thumbnail awakened the buried memory of watching some "now this" type video on that jar a few years ago. at the time, i thought, "this is completely unrealistic. right? or am i just super wasteful and thoughtless?" and then i kept scrolling through facebook and forgot about it because all it evoked from me was some convoluted, almost imposter syndrome of like "maybe everyone else has this figured out and i'm just a terrible person who didn't get the memo." i believe the people in these comments saying she's inspired them to change something about their lifestyle or something along those lines but i think a lot of people reacted in similar ways to me: trying to forget the unrealistic standards that we know we will never live up to. sure, she's inspiring people by touting this mason jar around media outlets, and maybe her business is inspiring people too. but: a) environmentalism exclusive to the rich is intended to make money by selling the Feeling of being a virtuous, responsible person. selling a tin of three condoms for nine dollars has nothing to do with waste reduction and everything to do with effective branding. b) by focusing on the mason jar, she or anyone else attempting this can alleviate themselves of any sense of responsibility or capability to reduce waste in other ways. for example, taking shorter showers does not fit in a mason jar, but it is reducing waste. however, if someone is just trying to get their powdered shampoo to actually wash their hair (which i have never tried but can only imagine takes more time to get "lathered" or whatever the powder equivalent is) then they might be taking longer showers than they would be if they were using liquid products. c) i'm supposed to believe that her answer to the dilemma of reducing personal waste was to fill a mason jar with trash (over any amount of time, i mean who's to say she's being honest about the timeline?), then to give interviews about it and tell people what a good person she is for buying bulk products (people living paycheck-to-paycheck cannot afford to buy things in bulk but we're glossing over that), and then to start a business where she sells the idea of reducing a carbon footprint, without necessarily reducing any version of a carbon footprint. maybe she really does care about the environment, but i fail to see the part where she cares more about the environment than her own personal benefits of having a platform and making money. it's late and this comment is long and i forget where i might've been going with this, but i think it's clear what i think

[@alicelorina8079]

..."or you're given a gift of 1000 plastic straws by your spiteful ex boyfriend" LOL 😂

[@lauren-ym3lb]

as a Lauren we do NOT claim her

[@laurenprice1601]

Agreed, us Lauren's don't claim lol.

[@yulianay4422]

On behalf of my 5 y.o daughter,I do not clain her either. 😖

[@dongysakura418]

Lauren sure does have a lot of clones

[@lsmith7035]

amen

[@ploofthesheep2887]

my sister no claim her too

[@hetatoiviainen9489]

I live in Finland, and here we have this system, where recycling is mandatory - and every apartmentcomplex has recycling bins available. If we carry plastic or glass bottles to any store, you can recycle them there, and get money back. Every big bottle has 40 cents added to the price to recycle it, and if you recycle them at a store, you get that money back. With this being said, I firmly believe that zero waste is impossible in this climate we live in, but everyone should atleast try their best at recycling any, and all things that are possible to recycle.

[@shadylane8672]

One of the very few times the algorithm got it right.

[@mlev1111]

I've always wondered about her... like, will she sleep on the same mattress for the rest of her life? Will she never buy a new car? What about pet products?

[@dongysakura418]

Does she have a pet

[@TechnoScorpion2137]

She ate her pet. 0 waste, remember.

[@klaudiaklaudia7155]

@@TechnoScorpion2137 hair included. period.

[@felipevasconcelos6736]

Klaudia Klaudia, yes, she drinks her period blood. Zero waste.

[@mollyflora7299]

I've literally thought about this so much ever since seeing that original mason jar video. I'm so glad someone else is finally talking about this. It's impossible to produce that little trash in modern culture

[@daddleducky6505]

i usually struggle paying atttention to youtube videos when there are not many visuals (like here, where most the video consists of a person and a simple background) even when the topic really interests me, idk why. but this video somehow kept me engaged all the way through, thats aweseome!

[@ritatse]

Turning sustainability into a lifestyle to be bought and sold also leaves it unattainable to so many people. I’ve seen so much online of so-called sustainability advocates shaming people for not making plastic free choices. Meanwhile the mark up for these types of products make them inaccessible.

[@Javijavijavi]

didnt know who Lauren was, but i am invested! this is a great video.

[@agzerowaste7431]

the thing that bothers me about lauren is how she refuses to acknowledge any of her privilege in this zero waste journey of hers. i followed her on instagram for a bit and was motivated to even follow more you tubers that have a similar message (hence my username). however, after following her the rose colored glasses faded and i was left with what she truly is. she is a privileged girl who lives in a highly accessible city with resources and opportunities at her fingertips that the average consumer does not have at their disposal. one of my least favorite posts of hers was one where she boasted her zero waste makeup routine + how good she looked “naturally” simultaneously putting down other woman who may wear more makeup or not have the ability/confidence/money to throw on some expensive blush and call it a day in the name of “low waste packaging.” the most important part of a low waste journey is knowing that everyone has a different path they are going to take and that everyone has different abilities into how far they can go. for lauren, she acknowledges & embodies none of that.

[@hirrorstories]

about low waste makeup. one can buy refill with the metallic pan of any mu brand. it can blush/powder or eyeshadow you don't need to waste 29 bucks on eco friendly makeup brand. just cheap essence pallettes may work too. they are packaged in cardboard which is bio-degradable and metallic pans

[@WeiYinChan]

Like that’s literally the opposite of what she said but okay? She had said in an interview that the coordinations are more responsible than the consumers, she said people should do whatever they can depending in their situation, she never put down woman who wear more makeup.

[@fgcfelice]

Also she even said once that she wears contacts as well

[@shirleycarvajal193]

This is soo true! Also a thing with all those "zero-waste" products, its virtually impossible to get ALL of them without plastic shipping, bubble wrap, etc. I worked in a store like that and trust me those jade rollers came in wrapped in so much plastic because they're really fragile and my boss would have me throw all of that away in the back so costumers wouldn't see.

[@ohbooyah6006]

zero-waste is not literally no waste at all. it is, to avoid waste to a point near nothing.

[@ohbooyah6006]

and, I can still practice zero waste even though I did brought home some waste. as long as I know I tried to avoid the waste in the first place.