What is Zero Waste?
Zero waste isn’t as literal as it sounds. It’s less about producing no trash and more about making conscious efforts to reduce waste over time. The idea is to cut down on plastic, single-use items, and food waste by making more sustainable choices. For instance, you could make your own salad dressing at home or buy a version in a glass jar instead of plastic.
There are endless ways to tackle zero waste. Some people simply swap out toothpaste tubes for refillable options or use cloth rags over paper towels (because who doesn’t love doing more laundry). Others go all in, homesteading and making essentials from scratch.
At its core, zero waste is less about achieving perfection and more about being intentional—because every small step matters, even if it’s just rescuing a jar or saying goodbye to plastic bags.
Here at Wasting Away, you’ll discover practical tips and ideas to help you take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable lifestyle and less trips to the garbage can.
The Zero-Waste Road Trip Checklist
I recently took a five-day road trip through Arizona with some friends, and while it wasn’t a perfect zero-waste adventure (I wasn’t in charge of the snacks, okay?), it made me realize just how many simple ways there are to reduce waste while traveling. Whether you’re hitting the road or catching a flight, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping trash to a minimum—without sacrificing convenience. Here’s how to make your next trip as low-waste as possible, with easy swaps you can actually stick to.
Zero Waste Toilet Paper
Toilet paper is one of those things you don’t really think about—until you start questioning just how sustainable your wiping habits are. I’ve tried bamboo TP, recycled TP, and even gone mostly TP-free. So, is “zero-waste” toilet paper actually better for the planet? And more importantly… does it actually feel good?
My Experience with Gardyn
Moving to NYC meant saying goodbye to fresh, local produce—but my Gardyn has been a game changer. This indoor hydroponic system lets me grow herbs, greens, and even cucumbers right in my apartment. Some plants thrive (hello, endless basil), while others aren’t worth the effort (looking at you, green beans).
10 Ways to Reduce Kitchen Waste
Your kitchen doesn’t have to be a landfill-in-progress. With a few simple changes—like using every part of your food, freezing smart, and storing ingredients properly—you can drastically reduce waste without sacrificing convenience. From making broth with scraps to mastering meal planning, this guide offers practical tips to stretch your groceries, repurpose leftovers, and even compost.
Storing Fruits and Vegetables
Discover the secrets to keeping your fruits and veggies fresher for longer with this easy-to-follow guide! Whether you’re battling wilting greens or rock-hard avocados, these simple storage tips will help you reduce waste, save money, and make the most of your produce.
