Zero Waste Habits for 2020 | Sustainable Tips & Hacks

[@Shelbizleee]

Check out the Green Dreamer Planner here, greendreamer.com/shop/planner-light-linen If you're looking for a sustainably made planner that also gives back this is a great one!

[@lyndsey268]

Shelbizleee I’ve been trying to binge ALL your videos the past couple days, and I’m realizing how many subscribers you’ve been gaining in just a couple weeks! Last I checked it was 188K, and now it’s 190K?? Congrats Shelbi, you’re my favorite KZbinr!

[@hopesands2381]

Shelbs, PLEASE do a gardening how to/vlog!! I need a visual, I'm so bad at growing stuff! lol

[@stefanlindbohm]

I’m one of the co-creators at GoClimateNeutral, big thanks for mentioning us! I just wanted to pop in and say how amazed I am to see such an optimistic, friendly and inspiring community here on KZbin. It’s definitely a light of hope in contrast to so many other communities. Keep it up Shelbi & everyone reading this! And of course, I’d be happy to answer any questions about carbon offsetting. Put them as a reply to this comment and I’ll do my best to answer them!

[@aainomielinen]

How is it so cheap with GoClimateNeutral? With other services it would cost me 20-30e, but with your service only 10e?

[@avacurtis2729]

Thank you for what you do! I dont offest all my carbon, I use go carbon neutral but it was just too much for my budget (I'm trying to save for colledge) so I went back in and said I drive less than I do to make it more affordable I offset about 80% of my carbon now :)

[@stefanlindbohm]

Thanks, @@avacurtis2729! We definitely have the use case of offsetting for a lower amount than one's own footprint in mind. So far we've just not landed on a really easy way to do it (things tend to always get more complicated when you set out to actually do it! :) ). For the time being what you did is the workaround we have. You can also change the amount (to any amount, regardless of footprint result) in settings anytime after signing up. Thanks for the feedback and for joining!

[@lauramolteni2431]

In Italy we don't use dryers, we only hang dry clothes.

[@ANASantos519]

Laura Molteni 🙋🏼‍♀️🇵🇹

[@anitaferro1405]

In fact, I laughed at that one🤣

[@safura7195]

Same in my country Bangladesh.

[@deannamilwain5770]

Same in the UK. X

[@irishcladdagh3]

Back home in the Caribbean we also hang dry our clothes...I miss that so much 💔

[@recovering.with.rachel]

This sounds so lame...but I started keeping a couple of Pyrex containers in my car when I go out to dinner to take leftovers home in instead of the Styrofoam container they put the food in. I also started bringing my own cup to work for fountain drinks.

[@cheyennebailey5149]

That's not lame at all! :)

[@ukoncentreretlaeskedrik]

Good job! 👏 more people should be doing that!!!

[@mwolfe2022]

Why on earth would this be lame? This is what everyone should consider doing.

[@frankieberry]

That's really cool.

[@wonderwoman5158]

Never thought about doing that I always hate those they spill or leak thanks for the idea.

[@gabryelalilly]

You can also rent tools from Home Depot so you don’t need to purchase it. It is a good option if you only need that tool once.

[@vickyvaleview2081]

Whoa i didn't even know that!!! Thank you

[@isabellebasara5148]

My goal is to eat less meat, eventually transition to being a vegan, and buy secondhand as much as possible!

[@lirazdemasure936]

You should check "Challenge 22+" on google, it's a free vegan challenge, I've been a mentor in these challenges a few years and they can really help you making it easier. Good luck!

[@amandaburger2506]

I'm working towards cutting out meat too. A bonus I've found to eating more meatless meals is I can use the money I save to buy my animal products local, free range, and organic.

[@anthonyp2697]

You're awesome for caring about the world!

[@rajvishukla458]

More power to you, girl! ♥️ All the best and positive vibes sending your way

[@IWishUDidntNoMyName]

Just don’t buy secondhand meat, LOL just kidding. Those are great goals!

[@lilymayt3]

🌿My resolutions are: •A no spend challenge •Eating veggies and fruits that are seasonal •Walking to work and school more often

[@beckygriswold6794]

I recently implemented "Waste Not Wednesday" I use it to prepare a meal from the leftovers in the fridge and/or utilizing food already in my pantry.

[@juliaaalovee]

Becky Griswold ooooh love this

[@marybalantic2683]

This 67 year old vegetarian retiree loves your channel. I have used my clothes dryer to damp dry my clothes then I hang them on a wooden clothes bar to finish drying. Now I’ll just hang them after washing. I’ll start commenting to companies that use plastics in packaging. That is crazy and needs to stop. I sold my coffee maker and now use a no plastic French Press. I have recycled, reused and reduced things for decades. 2 of my 3 adult kids with families now are also on board and we share ideas. My rural area now has places to recycle styrofoam and food wastes for future compost. Love this. 2 years ago I purchased a 1980’s mobile home which is fantastic. Can’t believe I was actually thinking of buying a new one! So glad I didn’t. Peace to you.

[@janina.ate.the.microphone7179]

Mary Balantic as one of the young people your comment makes me really happy! I always see young people make changes and it’s so great to see older people doing it. We all need to stick together to make a big change! Bless you♥️

[@ninacasali8612]

My daughter gave me a beautiful handmade coffee mug for Christmas so I donated 2 mugs out of my collection. A town near me has 1 or 2 repair cafes a year. You bring in small items and people help you fix it, free. This type of thing is great, so many small things get thrown out.

[@aiwxo]

This sounds so good!!

[@kalpic11]

Repair cafes? Like a repair event at a cafe?

[@ninacasali8612]

They hold the event in a municipal place and have people who have skills in repairing, sewing etc and serve coffee and baked goods. Repairs are free, refreshments are not but the proceeds go to local programs. Might bring my big kitchenaid mixer as it now only works on med high or high speed.😏

[@thefrugalcrafter]

I wanted to share a tip that might help your viewers if an appliance breaks, many states including Maine where I live, have an Implies Warranty Law which states that if an appliance fails before it's natural expected life the company has to repair or replace it. This overrides a manufactures warranty. My 3-year-old refrigerator stopped cooling and the manufacturer was not going to fix it but when I told him about the implied warranty law he sent out a repairman free of charge. HP also replaced a photo printer with a refurbished one when it died just over a year after purchasing. If your state has this law and you purchased the product while living in the state (meaning the company sells in your state or delivers to your state) you are covered. I recommend calling the company and asking how long an appliance typically lasts before telling them yours is broken. I think there is a chart that says major appliances should last 10 years minimum, minor appliances might be less. Your mom may want to check with her state and save a costly repair bill because the company doesn't volunteer this info.

[@ideoformsun5806]

What a great bit of information to know about! Thank you for commenting this.

[@Ginnyinyourpants]

I don't know what your end goal was with this channel but I can tell you after all these years of watching you I have certainly become more eco-conscious. I'm not perfect by any means but I certainly stop to think when I am making decisions and make the more eco-friendly ones.

[@taytaysharrard]

same here! I feel more aware and like I'm slowly making more and more eco conscious decisions (esp while I still live with my parents I can't do every single thing)

[@theresabott3883]

When my husband and I bought a house our neighbor was tossing a solid oak bedroom set, I asked if they minded if I took it for our spare room, that's when I started going to estate sales to buy whatever we needed. That was 3 years ago, I still go and get things like cutting boards when I need to replace what I have (I sand them and use lemon juice and salt to clean them). Tools are cheap there too, I'm the handy one so I'm always on the lookout. We also put in 4 large raised beds, a rain barrel, an apple tree, and 3 large flower beds to feed the bees. Plus a very large compost area, we mulch all our leaves. Love what you do, you've helped me be better to the earth than I had been. Thank you!!

[@Zullala]

6 refrigerators for 2 people! I'm feeling anxiety just imagining 6 fridges packed with expiring food! I get upset when veggies in my crisper start to turn!

[@HosCreates]

same!

[@Lemonyjean]

My parents have I think 2 fridge freezers and 3-4 freezers but a lot of it is harvested veggies and meat because they have a farm and a really large garden

[@Zullala]

@@Lemonyjean that makes sense. Don't want the garden or the hunt to go to waste.

[@Lemonyjean]

@@Zullala yeah! And even though they spend a bit on electricity, they're pretty much zero with the food transportation and play a very useful role in shopping local

[@amandaburger2506]

My grandma was a hoarder and it included food. She had 4 deep freezers and 3 refrigerators for anywhere from 1 to 3 people depending on who was living with her at the time. 1 of them was for the chickens that she farmed.... The rest is a mystery best left alone.

[@laurenbailey2772]

Using pantry items! We call this "Chopped: Home Edition."

[@denden798]

Lauren Bailey yes yes yes I love doing this!

[@MrNioMoon]

🌿 My New Years resolution: - Learn more about being sustainable - Implement it more into my life slowly but surely - Plan ahead more often 📒

[@somedude172]

ive "rented" so many things from the second hand store lmao. all of my Halloween costumes as a kid, and all kinds of other stuff. you end up spending almost nothing, and then you can just give it back when youre done with it. I stimulate the economy without collecting tons of junk that way lol

[@thriftyacorns3545]

I don’t like to hang dry, especially with three kids but I have started running my dryer for shorter times. I realized it really doesn’t take as long to dry my clothes as I thought and I can cut that down in half! I love having leftover/ pantry nights, and growing as much as I can. I’ve lived on second hand shopping my entire life lol. I need to be better about shopping more consciously.

[@ambercascanette7453]

I hate hang drying towels. They just get hard and crunchy 😣 I have 4 kids and I just hang dry the synthetic and it cuts down on drying time quite a bit. I can't believe how much synthetics the kids have 😬

[@joannekosheluk8819]

My goals for this year are to borrow more and line dry as much as possible! I already shop for my clothing pre-loved or local (and shop waaaay less than I used to), and I’ve started giving away items that I have old emotional attachments to (after I thank them for the joy they’ve given me). Thanks for being such a great inspiration 😊

[@stefanied5723]

I’d like to write to companies more this year. There are many things I love that I no longer purchase because their packaging isn’t sustainable.

[@yenfr5306]

I agree I'm switching all products I have once used up, but 2 main things i would love to keep buying, but I can't is the cerave pm facial moisturizer and a face sunscreen that has pa+++.

[@Laura0IN]

My daughter when working overtime, would use the pickup groceries...but she hated it because EVER SINGLE item was put into its own plastic bag!! I immediately told her to ALWAYS ASK for them to combine items, at least within a department, and to also complain to management!

[@ChatOmbre]

Stefanie D Yes! I’d love tips on this. I don’t know why, but sometimes I get anxious and it helps to watch a video or something of tips first.

[@sentientbeingslove]

Oh, Shelbi, THANK YOU! I have been wanting to offset my carbon, but thought it would be too expensive. I went right to GoClimateNeutral while still watching this, and found out I can offset my household for $10 a month, for myself and my husband. I am seriously crying right now, I'm so happy.

[@EllieNova29]

At the beginning of the year I asked my boyfriend if he would be interested in moving to a more reduced waste lifestyle. With that conversation, this year we are both trying to be more mindful of what we buy and how much. To kick off the year we went through our closets and were able to donate an equivalent of 3 garbage bags (the 13 gal ones) full of clothes we just didn’t wear, some we didn’t even like but just still held on to!

[@misham.8983]

So excited to see a fellow San Antonian promoting these practices. My resolution to take from the video - repair what you already have! I used to be embarrassed I couldn't even sew a button (my mom & nana are excellent sewers, but I never learned). It's so wasteful so finally watched some KZbin videos and learned to sew shut a tear. Fixed two sweaters and a pair of jeans! My first efforts aren't pretty, but I'm feeling motivated. And there are so many courses/videos online to learn these skills. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@Nutritionbypaolao]

You should do a ted talk when you’re ready to start public speaking again!

[@sabrinahoran2555]

I have gone vegan this year! I think it's one of the most sustainable things someone can do on an individual scale. Also definitely want to start growing some of my own food :)

[@Dallasfairdale]

Sabrina Horan good on you! My husband and I have went vegan as well, and we're loving it! Such a great choice to make for the environment, the animals, and your health. ❤️

[@sionv2009]

Always plant mint in a small pot separate from other plants! It's a very invasive plant it can very easily take over your entire garden.

[@cristym8118]

sionv2009 Good advise. I just ripped a bunch out of my herb garden for this reason.

[@paigeokeefe9721]

I definitely want to try to start implementing the pantry habit and not immediately feel like I have to grocery shop... thank you Shelby for being so inspiring and committed to this lifestyle!!

[@nikolinabistrovic2377]

In Croatia it's not usual to use dryers and I never used one because of that, but now I even don't want to, also I started planting my own garden and I hope it will get bigger each year! I love all your ideas not just because of ecological reason but also economical and we all should take that into consideration! 😁😁

[@divdesmitpieci6767]

Coming from Latvia hang drying clothes, making pantry meals, repairing stuff and shopping second-hand seems like a no big thing at all. However, I personally really struggle with engaging with community, borrowing or swapping things with others. And my 2020 goal is to get my carbon offsets covered - thank you for this remindor. :)

[@1jackieworcs]

In the Uk I always air dry clothes when I can. It is rare I use the tumble dryer probably only in the winter for the thicker items and bedding. They cost too much to run all the time xx

[@deannamilwain5770]

1jackieworcs yes that so true. I live in the UK too. X

[@clothyoriginal]

Same

[@HosCreates]

I'm curious .. how many cloths do you own? I air dry and I feel like we have to much because it takes forever to get all the clothes done for a family of 4 including myself.

[@deannamilwain5770]

Amanda H I live in a house of 6/7 so we only are dry when we can. In summer it's a lot more but bigger things like duvets we use the tumble dryer. X It depends on the weather and what we are washing. Xx

[@Scr3amerrr]

@@clothyoriginal I'm only 1 person but one load of washing fits across 2 drying racks. This'll take about a day to dry so unless I'm doing more than 1 load of washing a day it works

[@Nickimay]

You’re like our big sister when it comes to sustainability! Thanks shelbi ❤️

[@hollyb6940]

Love the video! I'm looking to implement the pantry meals. I am guilty of over grocery shopping and creating food waste. I recently went vegetarian so my pantry is full of beans and lentils that seem endless. The only thing I need I really need on a consistent basis is my veggies which I can focus on getting at my local farmers market. I'm also going to be more of a conscious consumer! The thrift stores around me are packed with cute and useful stuff. I'm working on the mindset to go there first. I'm the type of person who find it relaxing to go to target just to "see if I need something" which leads to wasteful buys. It'll be a journey but I'm looking to change the mindset this year!

[@christinamariemoney]

This will always be my go to channel for all things zero waste! You are amazing Shelby! ❤️

[@heatherdavis1458]

I'm planning to try and grow my own food indoors and then maybe start a garden too! Thanks for the great tips, Shelbi! You inspire me all the time.

[@andreajackson804]

My goal is to have a garden by the end if this year

[@Alesanascreamokid]

so cute! good luck

[@debmccudden242]

Start out with some large pots in the meantime 😊

[@rachelwo1671]

Thanks for this list! My resolution is to open up more to others about my efforts to live a more low waste lifestyle. When I first bought my reusable produce bags, my sisters gave me such a hard time about it! Since then, I have avoided discussing most of the changes/efforts I am making. But no more! If someone asks about my collection of empty pasta sauce jars, instead of making up an excuse, I am just going to be honest-I am using them to buy in bulk and store food to avoid plastic! Etc etc. Happy New Year, hope your dad is doing well!

[@ariilynton-smith1256]

this year i’m super excited about creating a capsule wardrobe! i’m working towards this to help ease my anxiety in the morning. My wife and i are also going to start a compost at my mom’s house!

[@estefanycastaneda6237]

I still live at home and I’ve been the main one actually at home so I started transitioning the fridge with items we actually eat vs all the food that was being wasted before and labeled as ‘staples’ and now I’m the grocery buyer at home and make sure to ask everyone if they want anything so they don’t miss out on any particular thing! I have also been shopping my pantry more and making sure there is always something easily conventional oven friendly to make!

[@caramelushca]

My goals this year are: - learn how to use my sewing machine so I can mend my clothes and sew some of my own produce bags and stuff like that - try to get a composting system in my apartment - reduce my food waste by using what I have P.S. Was that your Charlie Feist backpack that broke? :(

[@carolburnett8372]

Caramelushca, you can get lots of free sewing tips and lessons right here on U-tube, but I bet you know.....

[@caramelushca]

@@carolburnett8372 Yes, thank you, I just need to summon some time and patience :) I've watched some tutorials, but it keeps getting stuck for some reason; I think I just need to figure out my machine better :)

[@elisa4620]

Same! I finally got a sewing machine after years of wanting one but bring broke. This was a treasure found in my local charity shop. Just had to buy the necessities to take care if it and find an adaptator for the part where you connect it to electricity (it's an old model). Now I have to find time and patience to learn to use it and it will make sewing do much easier :)

[@1KITIG]

this video made me realize as a beginner that I already have some skills that I’ve never thought about in an eco friendly manner, I feel less discouraged from knowing I’ve already do stuff in more sustainable way. thank you for that.

[@melissablair1347]

My new years resolution that has to do with sustainability is growing from seed at least 25 new trees and getting some of last year's saplings in the ground. I started this last spring, sprouting apple and maple tree seeds and ended up not killing 12 of them. So I want to keep going with it and more than double what I did last year. Plus I'm trying to expand my knowledge of species and will be attempting evergreen, butternut, black walnut, and chestnut trees. Wish me luck!

[@73geisha]

I have decided to try to buy second hand first for 2020. So, I just bought a flat iron from a second hand store that supports veterans. I almost purchased a new one for $125. But I only spent $5 instead. Looks like I'm off to a great start for the new year. Thanks for the tips and tricks. They are very inspiring.

[@petah9795]

I definitely like the "borrow" method you mentioned. I already buy secondhand where I can (except underwear), but borrowing might even get me talking to my neighbours...🤷‍♀️

[@AminahMosley]

Shelby, you’re an introvert?... 🌱 I have a resolution to implement an indoor herb/veggie garden in my Brooklyn apartment. I was chatting about it just this week and your kale looks so delish. I’ll probably begin with cilantro & mint. Let me know what you recommend. 🌳 I use Ecosia, the search engine that plants trees baed on individual consumer usage of their search engine. 🔂I definitely utilize the one in, one out policy. ♻️Because of you, I often think second-hand 1st, and I typically get items that are like new or only gently-used. Great for the planet and my budget!

[@Jocey_10]

Would recommend that the mint be grown in it’s own pot as it likes to strangle the roots of other plants around it. But herbs like thyme, basil, oregano, are so easy to grow. Just think about which ones you normally use in your cooking. Best thing I did last year!

[@KaylaKasel]

I have mint in my family's backyard (not sure where it came from, to be honest. Long forgotten plant it seems) and it grows in incredible amounts! I personally love it, but if we were to ever try to grow other plants in that area, it would be a nightmare for sure! Getting into (indoor) gardening last year was one of the best things I did. It was very fun and satisfying to watch something grow because of me. 10/10 highly recommend.

[@ideoformsun5806]

A good skill to learn during the pandemic is sewing or knitting. Don't hoard the supplies for these, though. Just buy what you need for each project. Making a quilt out of old concert T shirts, or souvenir T shirts, or old clothing from a cherished grandparent is also great for reusing things, since thrift stores will often just throw out a lot of clothing or turn it into rags. I want to bring back the use of aprons! They can be very creative and cute, even more so than your regular wardrobe. They are easy to make, and help your clothes to last longer.

[@BrookieBlogsMilford]

My biggest goal this year is living more intentionally as a whole. That means creating less waste, making smarter decisions when I do purchase things, growing our garden this year, and even just spending more time present with my family without my phone. A lot of these are inspired by you and your channel 💗

[@lyndsey268]

I’ve been gardening food for a couple years now! Thanks to my farmer grandparents 😁. Right now I have blueberries and strawberries sleeping through the winter, and will come back in the spring. And I LOVE home grown blueberries, so much better than in a store.

[@caseydunkley2033]

I love what you said about fixing what you have instead of buying brand new. We’ve always thought “well if we have to spend the money why not upgrade” never really thinking about the waste. This puts it into such great perspective. Things I do off this list so far: Similar to many others who have commented line drying is the norm here in Australia. We have a dryer but it barely gets used, mostly just for nappies in winter when they can’t fully dry on the line during the day. Buying second hand where possible is one of my big goals for 2020, I’ve managed to get my sons school uniform all second hand in perfect condition and even convinced my husband to thrift a few new business shirts rather than buying new. Loving watching your videos, so inspirational!

[@kathrynsargent5769]

I’m old, so I actually grew up with a lot of these practices. My mother dried our clothes on clotheslines, outdoors, for years. My father tried to fix everything. My mother painted the house, inside and out. My mother’s favorite story is about the time daddy had her make him a camouflage hunting suit out of a silk parachute. She made our Barbie furniture out of milk carton bases, and they were upholstered, wingback chairs, when she finished. They grew up having to”make do” with whatever they had, and grew their own veggies and fruit. I bet their carbon footprint was pretty small. You remind me of all of these things we used to do, and some I’ve returned to. You do good work, Shelbi!

[@danielleeaslick1796]

Shelby, I just want to thank you so much for your videos, and I agree SkillShare is amazing! Without you I wouldn't of come up with my soap business being centered around plastic-less packaging. And SkillShare is helping me prepare for my business start up. I can't wait until you start speaking for seminars and maybe a Ted Talk one day if that is a goal of yours. You are an inspiration.

[@krishnagelda9653]

I like that definition of minimalism (15:50) - To have the smallest footprint we can on the resources it takes to make the things that we buy

[@PolyPrincess315]

We recently found your channel and are so enjoying your content. 😊 Who said “You can’t teach old dogs new tricks”? 🐶👨🏻‍🦳👵🏻 My husband and I are learning so much about sustainability and are implementing more changes every day. Need to work more on conscious purchases, and really making sure our purchases are necessary and sustainable. 2020 is the next step in our journey and we are so glad we have you to help us in that journey. The younger generations sure has more on us older folks when it comes to knowledge and practical implementation of sustainability, low waste, minimalism etc. Thank you Shelby!! 💜💚💙

[@abbyhagan3099]

I’m starting a garden this year! I’m even more excited that I’ll be starting it with compost I started January 1st

[@tungstensmum1491]

Because you asked: 1. I line dry or partially line dry as much as possible. I don't have a laundry space that makes it easy so it doesn't happen all the time, but in good weather we almost completely line dry. 2. Heavy meal planner here, and I keep a regular pantry and freezer inventory to keep in mind before shopping. 3. We have a veggie garden and herb garden. Being in Canada we don't have a long growing season but we do what we can. Unfortunately our house is quite dark and we don't have much good light for growing herbs inside, but maybe one day. 4. Filled my winter wardrobe holes with a couple trips to the local second hand stores. 5. Borrowing is a great tip that's often under considered. My husband's family shares large tools pretty freely and that's something we do a lot. 6. I'm lucky we have a handy family and we are able to fix most things ourselves. My husband is probably going to replace my phone battery today and also does some basic sewing. This year I've been going to a local place to get alterations done. Had my favourite purse fixed instead of buying a new one. 7. We don't do carbon offsetting because $$ but, there we go. One day. 8. I'm on a couple of local buy/sell groups on Facebook, so, while not being "active in the community" I'm often able to buy used items directly from somebody locally and we are able to share information about things that are happening in the area. 9. I'm pretty careful with our money but probably impulse buy a little more often than I'd like. Good tip. 10. Reviewing and reaching out to companies is definitely something I don't do enough. Will consider.

[@lifebeyondthesalary2458]

Tungstens Mum don’t forget to check out the buy nothing fb group in your area!!! I scored a working electric skillet. Nothing wrong with it, they were just decluttering what they didn’t use!!!

[@heidijeffs4307]

My ultimate goal is to homestead and live off of what I personally produce. So this year I am taking some gardening classes, implementing a garden and hopefully will feed my family mostly from what we grow. We already hang-dry most of our laundry, and try to do some of the other good habits you mentioned. Thank you for doing these videos, I *truly* enjoy them and have learned so much from you - THANK YOU!

[@peytonjohnson7307]

2020 sustainability goals -Set up a system to get my whole household to utilize our compost -Not one you talked about but bringing my own to go containers to restaurants for leftovers since in my area going out to eat is one of the most common forms of entertainment

[@afroditi8380]

My biggest resolution is getting involved! I recently started an environmental health organization at my university in hopes to get others to join and learn more about what they can do to help the planet!!

[@annaslater11]

I'm so excited to start growing some of my own food this year! I can't wait to have my own garden some day. Also, in addition to borrowing from friends and family, some libraries are starting to lend out materials like tools and sewing machines and stuff. Just an fyi! I'm trying to be more sustainable starting in 2020, especially only buying clothes second hand and interacting food more sustainably (composting, buying from local farmers, etc). It's great to see someone model how to actually live that lifestyle. Thanks for making this journey more accessible!

[@grimt0es229]

yay i cant wait to incorporate all these habits into my life. im trying to live more sustainabily and trying to influence my family to do the same

[@jessicaf5866]

My new resolution is to save at least 1/3 my pay check, and to not buy so many things. My family is not very eco-friendly, but I am starting to make more conscious decisions. Planners really help with that- to write down ideas, keep organized, etc. I love you! You have made me want to change, and I am trying my hardest!

[@_tayler_elise_4159]

I was just having a conversation with my husband about this. I was telling him that I wanted to start dehyrating fruit and was showing him all brands on Amazon. I was taken back when he said I should go to my moms and use hers. I told him that it would be easier to have my own. That was literally 2 hours ago, and here I am watching your video and learning a new way to be better to the environment. Thanks for your video and educating me 😊 My husband also appriecated the validation 😂

[@jaedyncall8212]

I do most of these, but i am excited to implement the others. My focus for this year is to just be an example instead of getting upset with others. Thank you!

[@audreyhui5839]

I currently hang dry laundry, grow my own herbs and vegetables, and thrift most of my clothes. I try my best to encourage my family to shop more sustainably and watch what they buy. In my household we have connected our washer to a rain barrel so that the water used to wash our clothes can be used to water our plants and catch rain at the same time. We use an eco friendly detergent so that the plants can use the water. My goal this year is to be carful with what I buy and restraining from impulse purchases. Thanks for you videos.

[@MckaylaKatharine]

Air drying my clothing is definitely something I would like to take up!

[@HosCreates]

be ready to iron clothes they get wrinkly if you dont have breeze

[@emilyrosin1369]

Amanda H how so? I don’t own a dryer OR an iron and my clothes aren’t wrinkly? Are you actually hanging your clothes?

[@Marciocha319]

@@HosCreates I'd say you're more likely to have to iron the clothes that dried in a dryer than those that hung up

[@SteampunkPrincess]

For repairing, our couch is very old and has gotten multiple tears in the fabric that I have sewn up. We borrowed an upholstery cleaner from a grocery store to clean it up as it is quite stained. And now that it is starting to get more holes and still looks stained I recently bought a couch cover to help extend the life of the couch. Our kitchen chairs were falling apart so we bought wood glue and fixed them. I need to start doing the one in one out rule, and probably another declutter because I still have too much clothing/stuff. We moved to a smaller place so having less things is now a necessity. I haven't done the 30 day wait rule but I do have an ongoing wishlist so that I am constantly looking for stuff I need or want when thrifting but not buying until I find it sustainably whether that's from thrifting or local artisans or a more ecofriendly online store. Loved the video Shelbi, I definitely feel inspired by some of your suggestions.

[@ItalianCurls]

I love the first tip about hang drying. I grew up in Italy and nobody had a dryer there so it was natural for me to purchase a drying rack when I moved to the US. Still my favorite method, not only for the zero waste effect but also for the amazing way that makes my apartment smell. There's nothing like walking home and smelling freshly washed linen!

[@macieday6089]

My goal thia year is to work on better consistency with my habits! I do a lot of these ideas already as it is, just need to stay consiatent with them!

[@sarahracha]

Hanging clothes to dry is a wonderful calming thing to do. I enjoy folding the laundry as I remove it from the clothesline so much more than folding a basket of laundry from the dryer. We don’t give ourselves much quiet time to do chores. It’s always rush rush rush. I use a reel to reel clothesline so I can stand in one spot as I hang the laundry. The only time it was a pita was when hanging teeny tiny baby clothes....took forever. But the babies are all in their thirty’s now...lol it’s always good to spend time outdoors.

[@kathrynhockenbury9564]

I was literally taking clothes out of the dry just as she was saying that. I’ll definitely have to think about be more eco friendly

[@Samew0001]

I have been doing the 30 day wait period, because most of the time I am buying on impulse. I do have a wishlist and I think it's helpful to wait it out and to know that I actually need an item, or want it because I know I'll definitely use it a lot. This also helps me to cut down on my spending, when I am bored or feeling down I browse the internet for anything to buy to make me feel better, but the feeling doesn't last and then im stuck in a cycle. So with that the goal is to buy less, then buy quality, and secondhand if possible. Love you and this channel!

[@tapirs6737]

For the new year I’m trying to get better about food waste so I’d like to try out the pantry meal idea you suggested. I did a big fridge clean out just before Christmas and I was embarrassed when I realized just how much food I let go to waste. Another resolution of mine is to try to produce less waste in general. Last summer my girlfriend and I moved from a house to an apartment that wasn’t set up with recycling collection, so we were hoarding our recyclables until we finally got our council to get us recycling bins. There’s really nothing like having 2 months worth of recycling piling up in your tiny apartment to show you how essential it is to emphasize reducing 😓 To make things worse, we haven’t had a single pickup since the bins were delivered. We’ve tried to get in touch with the council about it but nothing has changed, so I’m gonna make an effort to reduce my waste - it negatively affects my mental health to be surrounded by waste all the time, and I really should be making it a habit anyway! Thanks for this helpful video 💛

[@LizChaRob]

Carbon off setting is goal for me! We do fly and don’t plan to stop at the moment. So it’s a big one for us!

[@modernmrscleaver]

I do most of these in one way or another. The only one I hadn’t even thought about was writing to companies. Thank you for placing suggestions in my mind. The last Sunday of the month I do a “pantry” inventory. This includes the refrigerator and freezer. I take stock of what I have and move anything that will be expiring soon to the front. My father is a big clearance food shopper and brings us dry goods often. I implemented this system so I wasn’t wasting those foods.

[@laurencampbell2780]

My mom has always put her laundry in the dryer for about 5 minutes before taking it out to hang dry. I always thought it was strange, but she said it gets the hard wrinkles out without running the dryer for 40+ minutes. I’m going to try to start doing this! I’ve been trying to do better about buying second hand, but right now I’m doing really well with being choosy about where I spend my dollars. I very rarely (once or twice a year) buy anything from amazon or target and probably spend 90% of my spending money (not bills, gas, etc.) with small local businesses. I’ve found so many great businesses in my area and truly love being able to support them. I’ve had a small garden in the last, but in Phoenix, AZ, it’s hard to keep it going once it gets to be summer. For me the issue is keeping up with watering, but my cousin just told me that he has extra drip tape and extra supplies to set up a whole watering system, so I’m hoping this year is the year I keep the garden going more than a few months, plus it’s all second hand, bonus! One other thing, I just booked a flight to New York for my cousin’s graduation, I don’t want to miss out on a chance to see extended family and also travel somewhere I’ve never been before, but was feeling bad about the impact of the flight. Thanks for the info about carbon offsets! I will definitely be looking into that!!!

[@lilyhuber1367]

I do two of these hang drying my clothes and trying to repair everything I can. This year my new goal is to get a garden started and a compost

[@lauraferguson9531]

One of my goals this year is to grow my own vegetables and make a meal with them all. 😁 xx

[@amberallen1230]

Yes! I will be starting composting, I am going to start small and grow 1-2 veggies on my own, only thrifting for clothes or things I want, and also eating through what we have before buying more at the store. They are all goals for me this year.

[@marynelson2875]

I love this! My New Years resolution is to eat no meat and less dairy. I’d consider myself past beginner at sustainability so I appreciate these intermediate tips.

[@brizh5171]

I just wanted to say that I really enjoy your videos and the lights and plants are very soothing to see.

[@brookelangley5137]

I work with adults with disabilities and one of our goals this new year is planting herbs in reusable clay pots that are donated to us, and selling them so my clients can make money. Growing my own herbs and food has been a long time goal for me and I'm going to make it a reality with this new project this year!

[@elizabethdirks6533]

Thank you for your videos. I have been binge watching while doing house chores and organizing/purging. Without a doubt, you are making a difference through your videos by positively influencing the every day choices of your viewers. This year I will use the dryer much less often (zero is honestly not feasible now in our 4 member busy lifestyle). I also will make it a point to write letter to producers about more ecofriendly changes in packaging. Another big change, not mentioned here but still applicable, is eating out at restaurants less often. I have been getting annoyed at every day things that I hadn't even thought of before, such as the plastic straws and cutlery. Anyhow, thank you again from a sister Texan. ❤

[@jgeorgio]

I'm planning on seriously instituting the 30-day waiting period for me and my family! I've already started easing into it, but I've noticed it not only cuts down on the impulse-buys (which I do a lot of...ugh) but it's helped us stick closer to a better budget so we can break away from the check-to-check living! Double win!

[@elisecccccccc]

I started buying used electronics this year and it feels so great to be able to give that money back to the individual seller and to be able to keep that item from either wasting away or ending up in a landfill!

[@KJbean]

I had to pause the video to sign up For the carbon offset! I am so shocked to only see less than 4000 people signed up! I hope this can somehow gain more attention. What a wonderful thing we can do and keep in the background to help our future! Thank you for sharing!

[@Eastybeastyy]

I've started an eco tracker in my bullet journal focussed on making note of the little sustainable things I do, which is great for motivating me, as well as keeping myself accountable, and basically adjusting my overall thought process when it comes to becoming more sustainable. I struggle with hoarding tendencies and definitely want to try waiting 30 days before buying some of the things I want. I've been slowly improving becoming less of an impulse buyer!

[@Ayydoubleu]

Thank you for sharing the carbon offset website. I’ve never heard of this, and it’s such an easy thing to set and forget. Public transportation is not a realistic option for me, so I’m interested in being able to offset all my driving.

[@CraftingVicky]

I really love your ideas!!! There's a lot of items that we have done here including watching youtube videos to repair our appliances (and yes you can a lot of time fix them yourselves). I also love purchasing items from thrift stores and giving back as well what I no longer use :) I think the idea of getting better skills is awesome and something that we should all strive to do.

[@thatgirlcanyon6374]

I’ve noticed that now I live and work in the same town, I drive more often and drive short distances. I’m trying to actively walk to work as often as the weather allows. I am interested in growing my own food but have the thumbs of death so this will take a lot of work! Finally, I am trying to be more conscious when I shop of what I need. I’ve always been quite good at this because I’m on a budget but I can go the other way and deny myself things and feel such guilt when I do buy them that I end up returning them later. I’m trying to find a better balance between the two and now when I shop I look for more sustainable solutions so I don’t feel as bad when I do buy something. Your mantra about what the earth needs has honestly helped me so much and I say it to myself when I get a bit overwhelmed with everything that’s happening in the world and worry about how much I can or can’t help (guilt complex the size of Russia here!).

[@natalinacampopiano9985]

As soon as you mentioned goclimatenuetral I was excited. Trading out my Spotify subscription for this. Also loving the reminder of community involvement. We're lucky to live in a very green part of California, but there's always something that can be improved! This year we must come together in support of the greater. Im also about to start my first school class in years, intro to sustainable environments. Thank you for your work and your inspiration!

[@katie93.mp4]

Yes to line drying!! I'm American, but I'm spending some time abroad, and everyone I've met here in Australia either uses outdoor clotheslines or drying racks. It's such an easy change to make and I definitely plan to keep with it after returning to the states.

[@ren_b7]

I started hanging my clothes to dry them because it’s much way better even for the clothes themselves which’s something I’m really happy about. Also I started to grow herbs in my room and they make my room smells lovely 🌿❤️. The best and most affordable environmental option is buying second hand items I became so obsessed especially with I buy stuff for my kitchen you can’t imagine how many beautiful things people will feel bored with! Thinking about what I’m buying is something I’m trying to implementing in my life nowadays to reduce the amount of unnecessary things I ‘think’ I need! Thank you for the great video ❤️

[@taykdew]

I already do a lot of these and can say the 30 day rule is great for sustainability and my finances! One habit I'm going to try to implement is growing my own food. I recently moved into a house and now I have a yard where I can have a garden!

[@DeepRootsDetox]

Some of these are excellent tips that I haven’t already started or heard of! Thank you! I can’t wait to share with my local zero waste group. Was just saying I need to get a planner, but I’m checking all my frequented thrift stores and not finding anything🤞 how cool would that be!

[@briyonce777]

the clothes swap is such a good idea!! I think me and my friends will have fun, swapping what doesn’t fit, plus I have skin care and makeup I used once and didn’t like. It’ll be perfect!

[@sarahfourtner5751]

One of my New Years resolutions is to pack better lunches for myself during the work week instead of going and buying food from a restaurant and taking it to work. Another one is to get the people I love around me to understand why single use plastic is VERY unnecessary and try and help them work it out of their lives for the most part😊

[@lil.monkey8068]

I always tried to be more conscious about my impact. I started watching your videos recently and there is sooooo much i had no idea. In the past few weeks i started composting (my city does collect it but we never really did it), i stop using the plastic cups at work and carry my mason jar with me for my water, i have been more mindful about the packaging of what i buy. I have tried a few if the swap you suggested like the soap nuts(wich i love). I have never bought something second hand before but i did some research and there is a second hand toy store close to me to wich i will start buying my kids toys. I started teaching my kids what goes to recycle and compost. And i have donated their diapers to a daycare and switch them to cloth diapers. I have bought reusable pads after i watch your videos about it and i cant wait to try them. I want to thank you because i have learned a lot of things with your videos. You are amazing.

[@liamfrederic5203]

18/20! I recently thought about hosting an angry letter writing brunch with my friends to write letters to companies, stores and politicians about sustainability. I also do it on my own sometimes but it’s much more fun and probably way more impactful with more people.

[@natashabrauner8309]

Love seeing these types of videos! We are a young vegan family living in a zero waste off grid tiny home in Canada. I love seeing these videos and realizing how far we have come. All these thing are just daily habits and life. Don't even realise these are habits

[@GoslynMaxxine]

My sustainability resolution for the year is to definitely be mindful of where my produce and bulk items comes from. I already shop at local farmers markets and local grocery stores. I saw the video you made showing that even bulk bin items come from places like "vietnam" and that really opened my eyes. I wasn't even paying attention to that myself. Wow. So this year, I'm gonna be even more mindful. Thanks so much, Shelby.

[@ancag1882]

One of the things that I have seen you do often in your videos and that I hope to implement in my new year is to check any company I buy products from often and see whether they are greenwashing or if their products are actually sustainable. If I test their products and I like them, I often go on Amazon to write them a review. I’m also trying to find a community to trade goods with in my city. I live in a very tiny apartment and there is hardly any room to store a lot of dishes or cups, but I prefer entertaining at home over going out and I’m hoping I can find a group of people to trade borrowing their goods for services like pet/baby sitting or editing. Thanks for all your wonderful ideas! I learn something new with every video :)