Month: March 2018

Any type of traveling can be stressful enough. Whether you’re just heading to work or flying across the country, there are a million things to worry about. Where are my keys? Should I bring a coat? Do I have the right papers for my flight? Despite double and triple checking everything, you still wonder ‘Do I have everything I need?’ as you are walking out of the door. We get it: life on-the-go is not always easy.

But a travel-packed life often has some issues of its own that we may not want to recognize. First and foremost: waste. To-go containers and gadgets, food packages and drinks, and single-use everything can be convenient and easy to travel with, but at the end of the day they’re just another disposable item making it into our landfills. After all, as destructive as single-use items can be, people like them because we can use them and get rid of them (out of sight, out of mind, right?). Once anything goes into that forbidden trash receptacle, it’s easy to forget about it–as well as the 500+ years it will spend in our landfills. As a culture, we are conditioned to always seek out convenience. We often forget that this convenience comes at the expense of our beloved environment. But don’t worry, there is hope! With these simple zero waste travel tips you can become a conscious, on-the-go expert in no time!

Your “going out” essentials pack

This is a list of essential items for almost everyone. When you leave the house, make sure to take these with you! Never be caught unprepared and forced to take the dreaded single-use anything. Put these items together and keep them on your person, in your car, at work, or wherever is most convenient. If you have these with you when you head out, then you’re on the road to reducing your trash output in no time!

1. Reusable water bottle

Hydration is a key player to human health, so make sure you do it the right way! Ditch the plastic bottles and opt for a sturdy reusable bottle that can be filled, washed, and reused over and over again!

2. Reusable utensil set

You never know when you will encounter the need for utensils. It happens more often than you think! If you carry around a reusable set, you are sure to be prepared for any spontaneous snack or meal that comes your way!

3. Reusable bag

Whether it’s a planned trip to the grocery store or an “I just want to look” turned accidental shopping spree, make sure you’re prepared. Keep a reusable bag with you at all times; you never know what life will throw at you!

4. Reusable straw

There is no reason not to carry around a reusable straw. It’s slim, lightweight, and overall easy to carry around. With your pick of stainless steel or glass, you will be sure to make a statement anytime you pull it out of your bag. Oh, and make sure to tell your waiter ‘no straw, please!’

5. Reusable to-go container

Sometimes there are leftovers from work that you do not want to go to waste. Other times, you may decide to treat yourself to a meal in town. Maybe you stopped at a friend’s house and they want to give you some food for the road. Who are you to say no? If you keep a container on you, you mean business. Styrofoam, plastic, and aluminum foil are all food storage containers and wrappings of the past. Simply fill your reusable container, store, eat later, and enjoy!

Be eco-friendly everywhere!

Now, let’s get into some situational stuff. While the essentials will get you far, it can’t hurt to be even more prepared when certain events arise. Is work an eco-disaster? Zero waste travel tools are here to help! Going out to eat with the gals? We have gear for that, too! Taking a trip with your little ones? Have no fear!

To work and beyond! 

For many, coffee or tea is a morning must. Whether you make it at home or get it on the road, do your best to ditch disposables! Opt for an insulated mug instead that will not only save your hot drinks from getting cold, but the planet, too! (Pro tip: if you get coffee on the go, ask your barista if they can prepare it in your mug. They may not always say yes, but it can’t hurt to try! Some cafes will even give you a discount!)

So you’re making lunch at home and bringing it to work–that’s awesome! Using plastic wrap, tin foil, or other less sustainable means to transport your meal from A to B? Not so great. Avoid plastic wrapped sandwiches and unsustainable snacks by using reusable containers or food wraps. From tiffins, to sandwich wraps, to bento boxes, there’s tons of ways to pack a lunch without plastic. 

Now, how are you going to eat your lunch? Sure, plastic cutlery is convenient, but reusable utensils are much more fun and eco-friendly! With a bamboo utensil set, of course! 

Going out to eat

A reusable container once again saves the day! More often than not, restaurants serve large portions. But no worries, save that delicious dish for a next day meal! Leftover containers are very rarely eco-friendly. The most they can be at most restaurants is compostable, but few take the steps to do that. Instead, we are given plastic and styrofoam, neither of which are good for the environment. To solve this problem, bring your own container, slide your food into it, and take it with you. It’s that easy!

Restaurants and bars are notorious for contributing to the plastic straw epidemic. Straws are both harmful to the environment and the wildlife within it. Do your part and take action one of two ways: bring your own reusable straw or tell your server, No straw, please! These glass straws come with their own carrying case and cleaner. They come in a variety of fun colors, so choose your favorite and bring it everywhere you go! Or, find the straw alternative that works for you here!

For your longer travels

You really can’t go wrong bringing utensils around with you. Never again should you miss an opportunity to eat some delicious goodies, especially when you’re traveling! Say no to disposable plastic cutlery that will never be recycled, and yes to reusables that are easy to simply toss in your bag. 

Airport snacks can be so tempting, and expensive! Every corner you turn, there is another kiosk trying to sell you plastic wrapped this and disposable that. Avoid the expensive cravings by packing yourself some food for when you’re waiting. Trail mix, cut up fruit, and cereal are all lightweight and easy to carry zero waste travel options that are sure to make any adventure better!

To ensure you don’t have to buy bottled water, or take one of the free bottled waters on the airplane, simply bring your reusable bottle along and ask the flight attendant to fill it up for you on the plane! You’ll get more water, won’t use any plastic, and chances are, your bottle will probably spill a lot less than the little water cup they leave on your tray table.

Traveling with kids

When traveling with kids, it is important to use whatever fits your lifestyle best–and create positive habits to pass along to your little ones! Kick Ziplock bags to the curb and instead, fill these reusable snack bags with your kids’ favorite goodies, store, eat when ready, wash, and repeat! Your little ones certainly won’t mind the snack bag switch up, and neither will the planet! Or, try a compostable alternative to Ziplock bags–they are single-use, but won’t leave behind plastic thanks to their biofilm material. 

As convenient as those small, plastic water bottle are for your kids, they do not have a small impact on the environment. Instead, opt for some kids sized reusables! Not only are you reducing your consumption of plastic, but this is a great way to teach your tiny tots about responsibility by having them take care of their bottle! Plus, try kid-sized utensils made for tiny hands!

You’re setting an example!

Every time you pull a sustainable tool out of your arsenal, you are making a statement: “I care about the planet and you should too!” All too often, people assume that it’s too difficult to be sustainable, but you are living proof! When you bring your own container to the restaurant, people will notice. When you refuse a straw and instead pull out your own, people will catch on. Your choices and actions will make an impact, all you have to do is get started!

Soon enough, your friends and family will jump on board and then their friends and family will, and so on and so forth. The Zero Waste Movement is picking up traction and we want you to be a part of it! Take what makes sense for your lifestyle and implement it. Bringing these goodies with you from place to place and on every journey will become second nature in no time. Then, you’ll be on your way to being a zero waste travel expert!

Today’s culture has made it really easy to buy, use, and throw away at a pace that our planet can’t keep up with. Most of the things we buy are made to be used for a short period of time, and tossed out when they aren’t needed anymore. Going zero waste involves a shift in thinking, but once you start thinking about how much waste you produce, it’s easy to start reducing it!

At EarthHero, our aim is to provide everyone with the opportunity to be a conscious consumer and live a zero waste lifestyle. In this week’s post for Zero Waste March, we’re sharing our favorite zero waste home hacks and “Do It Yourself” projects to lessen the amount of waste coming in and out of your home.

Time to Clean House

It’s no secret that traditional cleaning products are packed full of harmful chemicals–not to mention the disposable plastic bottles they come in! Your cleaning arsenal is a great place to start thinking eco. From shopping selectively to making your own, there are plenty of ways to make a change!

The DIY breakdown

Citrus + Vinegar

Citrus vinegar is an excellent way to clean even the dirtiest of kitchens, bathrooms, and tile floors. On top of that, it’s super simple to make; all you have to do is soak your citrus peels (lemons, oranges, limes) in white vinegar for two weeks, strain your concoction, and slap on a spray topper. Now you’re in business! You can even add some mood-lifting essential oils to bring some energy to your cleaning.

Vodka always helps!

Calling all party animals: put that bottle of vodka to good use and use it as a natural disinfectant. While it may be known for starting a good time, it can clean up after one too. Vodka can be used to kill sickness causing germs and even disinfect wounds. (We recommend using the cheap stuff for cleaning, and save the expensive stuff for later.) Add ½ cup vodka to ½ cup water, then sweeten it up with some essential oils for a refreshing scent and added antimicrobial benefits. Try adding a few drops of lavender during flu season, and tea tree oil to give your ceramic surfaces special treatment!

When Life Gives You Lemons… Clean With Them!

Did you know that lemons are a great natural disinfectant that can be used in a variety of ways? We love bamboo cooking utensils for their durability (and they’re beautiful!), but they need special care–which is where lemons come in. Not only is bamboo a sustainable resource, but it will last a lifetime if taken care of properly. Hand wash your utensils in warm water and use lemon juice straight from the source to disinfect. Make sure the utensils are nice and dry after washing to prevent molding. Rub them down with oil to prevent cracks and breaking if they begin to look a little dried out, and they’ll stand by you for a long time!

It doesn’t stop there; lemons can also be used to remove stains from countertops and ceramic surfaces, clean out the gunk in your microwave, and freshen your garbage disposal. The best part is, you can toss them right in your compost bin afterwards!

Simpler solutions

Not into DIY? We’ve got you covered. Here are some of our favorite swaps for your sustainable cleaning supply…

Organic Glass Cleaner

Natural Clean-All Scouring Powder

Citrus Spray and Mop Floor Cleaner

Declutter that Bathroom

Tooth Powder

It’s time to breakup with your tube of toothpaste. Sorry toothpaste–it’s not you, it’s me. Actually, it’s the tube. If taking a look at the ingredient label doesn’t already scare you away, think how many toothpaste tubes people toss over their lifetime. Typically made with plastic or aluminum, around one billion toothpaste tubes end up in landfills every year.

Now, we aren’t telling you to not brush your teeth, but we are suggesting you to try out tooth powder! It’s available to buy here, but if you’re feeling a little adventurous you can give this DIY recipe a try!

The three main ingredients are 4 tablespoons bentonite clay, 2 tablespoons baking soda, and 1½ teaspoons unrefined sea salt. Once you mix that together as a base, you can add whatever you like! Cinnamon is antibacterial and adds great flavor, activated charcoal will make those pearly whites even brighter, and peppermint essential oils will leave your mouth minty fresh.

Now, switch that plastic toothbrush for a bamboo one, and you’re all set!

Simplify your hair routine

Once you find that perfect shampoo + conditioner set, you won’t find yourself with half-empty bottles cluttering your shower. Opt for a refillable option, like Plaine Products, and you’ll suddenly find simplicity in your routine! Once you’re low, just order your replacement bottles, and they’ll cover shipping your old ones back. No more empty bottles, no more waste!

DIY Dry Shampoo

We’ve all been there: you wake up a little late, and wonder if you can get away without washing your hair for the third day in a row. Dry shampoo is perfect when you need that extra 30 minutes of sleep and you’re not feeling a hat day. Not only will you save time and money with this homemade version of dry shampoo, but you’ll also keep toxic chemicals away from your scalp.

For light hair, use ¼ cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch as a base. For dark hair, add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to 2 tablespoons of the arrowroot/cornstarch mixture. Add 5 drops of essential oil to leave your hair smelling lovely. Don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone how long it’s been since your hair’s been washed (oops!).

DIY Lip Balm

With so many lip balm options out there, it’s hard to pick the right one. You want something silky, smooth, and full of moisture, but not greasy. Can’t find exactly what you’re looking for? Make it yourself! It’s that simple.

All you need are three basic ingredients: beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil. In just ten minutes, you’ll have all-natural, kissable lips! Melt 3 tablespoons beeswax, 2 tablespoons shea butter, and 4 tablespoons coconut oil in a pan. Once your mixture is consistent, pour it into a container and let harden. You can use any old lip balm container, or even an Altoid tin. Add some essential oils for a fun flavor, and for a natural tint, try adding a dash of Kool-Aid powder. Voila, homemade lip balm!

The Many Uses of Cocoa Powder

Cocoa powder is one of those items that is super inexpensive to buy in bulk. To fill a 4 ounce jar, it typically costs less than a dollar! Cocoa powder is a natural superstar when it comes to beauty. Its rich, chocolatey color is perfect for filling in eyebrows, swiped across cheekbones as bronzer, and even used as eyeshadow for a bold, smokey look! For all you beauty virtuosos, give yourself a warm cocoa glow by using cocoa as a body bronzer. If you’re a real expert, use it to contour your face. This multifunctional gem will save you from creating excess waste and eliminate toxic chemicals that are ever so prominent in beauty products.

Natural Makeup Remover and Moisturizer

Look no further than jojoba oil as your new skincare superhero. Packed full of vitamin E and other healthy fatty acids, jojoba oil can be used to remove makeup while also moisturizing your skin. This non-toxic oil will give your skin the natural boost it needs! It’s great for soothing acne, nourishing dry skin and hair, and keeping skin youthful and wrinkle-free. It’s non-greasy, all natural, and non-irritating. No wonder it’s referred to as “liquid gold”!

Bringing it Home

Zero waste is becoming more and more popular as individuals aim to lessen their impact on the planet. At first, going completely zero waste may be a new way of thinking, but in reality, it can actually make your life simpler. Many people who work towards a zero waste home are amazed how much time and money they end up saving!

Your journey is your own, and everybody approaches zero waste differently. We’re here to help though! Check back on our blog for more tips and tricks on how you can easily reduce your impact. The planet will be sure to thank you!

Zero Waste Lifestyle: The Transition

If you’ve read our last blog post, you’ve heard that March is all about zero waste. From saying no to single use plastics, to tackling the struggle of takeout and leftovers, the EarthHero team is taking on the challenge of producing less trash and nailing down the basics of living a zero waste lifestyle. Don’t know what zero waste is? We’d love for you to join the movement! Check out our quick summary of the movement here.

If you’re reading this, it’s probably safe to say that you’re on board with the idea of making less trash. But with any new lifestyle change, there comes an adjustment period. We’re here to let you know that some challenges are normal, and we’re experiencing it right along with you. Here are a few tactics that we’ve found helpful when starting a transition to zero waste!

Don’t Panic

We’ve all been there. You discover a new fad diet or workout trend and set out to incorporate it into your life. Your intentions are pure, and the end goal is something that you not only want, but can realistically accomplish. As the first few days go by, you’re on track and motivated, but there’s always something that can quickly derail your progress (if you let it).

The first rule of zero waste is that there’s no such thing as failing! If your goal for that week is to say no to all plastic straws, don’t beat yourself up if you forget to ask the bartender to ditch the straw at happy hour. Hell, you might ask and they’ll just put the straw in your drink anyway! The worst thing you can do is get so frustrated that you quit. Make sure to go into this knowing that you’re going to create some trash, and that’s a-okay.

Create a System

As with any new lifestyle change, it’s helpful to break your transition down into a few smaller steps. Although you might want to quit trash cold-turkey, we’re all human here, and that’s pretty tricky. Instead, write down a few of your biggest goals, and set up a schedule to slowly bring them into practice.

For example, if you’re a dedicated foodie and are constantly eating on the go, it can be daunting to avoid all of your takeout trash at once. Instead, maybe take the first week to stop getting your coffee in disposable cups. (Fun fact: single use hot coffee cups are not recyclable!) Instead, ask your barista to put your morning joe in a reusable coffee mug! While they might not always say yes, it’s worth a try. You can also think about making coffee at home. Sure, on-the-go coffee is convenient, but making it at home is one less stop you have to make during your travels–plus you’ll save money! Once you’ve got that down, try to carry around a reusable utensil set to replace single use plastic cutlery. Figured that out? Move on to bringing reusable straws everywhere you go, or bringing your own container to bring home those leftovers!

Some aspects of zero waste do involve a little more planning. Between meal prepping, coming prepared to the grocery store, and timing your bulk grocery store runs properly; it can be super helpful to plan ahead. Start by creating a menu for the week, or setting time aside to make sure you’ve washed your reusables and stocked up on the necessities. By planning out your week and anticipating potential struggles, you can drastically cut down on last minute plastic wrapped snacks, and yet another day of forgetting your reusable grocery bag. By breaking everything down into small steps, you’ll already have incorporated multiple waste reduction skills into your everyday life in no time!

Don’t Start from Scratch

Starting a zero waste lifestyle doesn’t mean you need to buy everything new. Sure, your favorite Instagram environmentalist has a snazzy new coffee mug or reusable food wrap, but that doesn’t mean you need flashy new items to successfully make less trash. While you get the hang of things, you can use your old takeout containers and repurposed pickle jars. Get creative! Upgrade when you really need more storage, or when your old items aren’t serving their purpose anymore.

If your first zero waste project is making DIY cleaning solution, use up your existing product first. If your goal is to cut down on waste, you don’t want half a bottle of unused cleaner going to the landfill just because you’ve moved on to a better one. Once you’ve made the most of what you already have, you can have fun upgrading to a fun cleaning set to make your essential oil-infused spray in! You can also use your old cleaning bottles to create some natural solutions in (just be careful not to mix leftover chemicals from old bottles!). The best way to cut down on waste is to make the most out of what you already have first.

Reduce Responsibly

Zero waste goes hand in hand with minimalism. You don’t need to be surrounded by items you don’t use, so slowly phasing out some items in your home can be a huge factor in making less waste. This brings a whole new challenge into play–what do you do with all of the stuff that you no longer want or need?

If you have clothing, kitchen supplies, or other gadgets that no longer have a place in your home, you can do your part by making sure you’ve given them their best shot at a second life. For items that are reusable, find a local thrift shop that can get these items to someone who needs them. Plus, different thrift stores benefit different organizations, so you can double your impact by donating to a store that benefits local wildlife or homeless shelters!

For items that are long past their lifespan, it’s worth it to do your research and find the best place to dispose of it. For ripped or stained clothing, find a place to drop off clothing that will recycle them into new textiles. Check your local recycling guidelines or TerraCycle to find out just how to recycle and repurpose your no longer desired items. Sure, it may be easy to simply throw them away, but what good does that do? Do right by our Earth, take the time, and recycle right!

There Is No “Right Way”

Zero waste is not some elitist club where you make one wrong mistake and you’re outta there! It’s about doing the best you can, utilizing what’s within your own reach, and reducing waste. Make it your own and get creative with your sustainability swaps and tricks. We’re here to make waste reduction a fun journey, not a chore! To recap, here are some zero waste lifestyle tips to keep in mind when you are making your transition.

Get out of your comfort zone! You may have to ask your barista for coffee in your mug and you may have to ask the bartender to “hold the straw, please.” It might feel weird at first, but in time, these simple asks will become second nature.

Use up the old before making or purchasing the new! It can be exciting to learn how to make that new, natural, 3 ingredient, all-purpose cleaner, but don’t let your half used one sit on the shelf! Use that first and then make the new.

Recycle and repurpose the right way! Do your research and responsibly dispose of those hard-to-recycle materials. If our goal is to reduce waste, then the landfill is the last place we want our things to go. A quick Google search will point you in the right direction of where to dispose of certain items.

Making the effort to go zero waste does not have to be scary. If you take your time to make an effective, lasting transition, your waste output is bound to diminish. So be patient, don’t stress, and stick with us!

Ready to show off your ZW skills? We have an entire month of zero waste coming, including tips, challenges, and a giveaway for a grand prize worth over $200+ dollars! Plus, on April 4th, we’ll be hosting a webinar with zero waste guru and founder of BeZero Andrea Sanders, where she’ll break down the movement and answer your questions. Stay tuned on our Facebook and Instagram to get involved!