The Zero Waste movement emerged in the 1970s in the United States following the declarations of certain scientists, whistleblowers, about the climate , the over-exploitation of natural resources and the threats hovering over biodiversity .
In the 2000s, the movement grew and became global thanks to emblematic figures such as Béa Johnson and her book "Zero waste, how I achieved 40% savings by reducing my waste" which influenced thousands of readers.
The Zero Waste concept is now applied by people from multiple backgrounds. Thanks to social networks, awareness has increased and collective awareness is on the move.
My transition to Zero Waste has allowed me to highlight many advantages:
Save money
Consumption becomes more considered with a global approach to products. Impulse purchases are avoided. Do I need this product? What will it bring me? Do I already have something similar, so is it really useful? Where does this product come from, how is it made? In 2021, we can no longer close our eyes, especially on this last point (child labor, slavery, etc.).
Consuming less but better does not mean being frustrated, quite the contrary. We take pleasure in having a responsible approach. Unconsidered purchases can happen and it's ok no fuss.
It's true that the stage where you equip yourself with durable objects (gourd, charlotte dish covers, menstrual panties...) can seem expensive. But, once the step is taken, we quickly realize the savings. The use of reusable products definitely reduces shopping lists.
A product can have several uses
Zero Waste rhymes with minimalism. A single product may be intended for several uses. Like for example white vinegar which can be used as a multi-surface cleaner or even as a rinsing liquid for dishes. The luffah, a vegetable sponge, can be used to clean the house or to exfoliate your body.
Better quality and healthier products
Unprocessed, fresh, local and seasonal products are favored in the Zero Waste approach. Eat better to understand and take care of your body.
Ditto for the bathroom with the use of raw products or simple composition. Cosmetics with dubious composition with endless INCI lists are no longer up to date.
Protect the planet
Recyclable waste is good, but "zero" waste is better. The best waste is that which is not produced. Each object designed requires the use of natural resources. When we reduce our consumption, we save natural resources. The planet, our home, needs to be preserved.
Giving value to objects
The choice of an alternative mode of consumption through renting, borrowing, buying second-hand, donating and repairing gives real value to objects. Value that is lost in consumerist societies based on rapid and perpetual renewal.
Reduced mental workload
Less consumption means a less cluttered house, a dressing room that is easier to store, shelves that are easy to dust off... Domestic tasks that are less.
However, be careful not to want to do too much by changing your habits too suddenly. Every gesture counts, it's all about doing it at your own pace.
caring community
Zero Waste makes it possible to interact and mobilize together. A sharing of tips, ideas and benevolent advice. A group social dynamic is created towards a common goal.
Fewer trash cans to throw away
By reducing packaging and over-packaging, you are guaranteed to have fewer bins to throw away. A chore that we would all do without. Will one day my trash can fit in a jar? Good question ! In the meantime, we continue our little gestures on a daily basis.
To help you get started, I listed in a previous article mistakes to avoid when embarking on Zero Waste ( here ).
To your small gestures my Hummingbirds.