First Steps to Going Zero Waste

The average American produces around 1700 pounds per year. Zero waste is the practice of designing a lifestyle where you reduce consumption of non-renewable resources, recycle or compost all your waste, and reduce your carbon footprint.

While most zero-waste practices are implemented in business settings, they can also be implemented at home! Here are some tips to get you started.

Learn About the Recycling Program in Your Building

Each building will have a different recycling policy. Make sure to check with your building’s staff on what they accept and how to implement the policy. Consult the management of your building to clarify what grades of recyclable products are accepted.

Sort paper and cardboard separately

With proper sorting, your recyclables can be recycled correctly, instead of being mixed in other trash that needs to be taken out each week. To save space, take any recyclable that fits into a bag and roll it up before putting it into the recycling bin

Recycle Plastic Products

Plastic bottles can be recycled in most buildings, provided they are cleaned, dried and the labels are removed. However, pharmaceuticals or beauty products cannot be recycled with regular plastics due to their toxicity levels.

If you live in an apartment, you will need to separate plastic bottles from other trash by checking recycling codes on the bottom of containers.

Living with a roommate

If you live in a dormitory or shared apartment, this means you can only recycle what your roommates will allow. A good idea is to agree on a recycling policy before you move in with your roommate and write it down so that everyone knows what is acceptable and what is not.

Start Composting at Home

Throw any compostable item, such as paper plates, cardboard boxes, vegetable scraps, eggshells, and food waste, in a compost bin in the building’s kitchen area. Composting bins have lids to prevent insects from getting in and odors from escaping.

If your building does not offer compost bins, you can buy your very own home food composting machines.

Use Recyclable Products

Identify what types of items you most commonly use and find zero waste ways to use them. For example, ensure you use reusable produce bags for your fruit and vegetables instead of plastic bags. Another idea is to reuse plastic containers instead of buying new ones.

If you’re looking for quality eco-friendly and compostable products, we’re here to help you. TP Green offers a range of environmentally friendly products that help create a sustainable environment for everyone. We also sell non plastic disposable products,home Food Waste Composter, Shop Porcelain tableware, bamboo cutlery, and much more.

Contact us today to learn more about our products.