Author

Megan Kioulafofski

Megan is a writer, business owner, and a passionate eco-enthusiast. Wanting to share her passion and enthusiasm for eco-friendly living, she writes about topics that can help others live more sustainably in their daily lives. Currently living in Puerto Rico, she spends her spare time at farmers’ markets, cooking delicious meals, and practicing beach yoga.

Single Use Plastic Ban Goes Global

by Megan Kioulafofski January 30, 2020

4 minutes read

The single use plastic ban is no news for those of us that are conscious about the way we treat our planet and the legacy we leave behind for the generations to follow. And since we are speaking about legacy, the latest environmental facts and statistics should be a real cause of concern for all of us. In fact, one of the most alarming warnings comes from WWF which states that we might be the last generation that can save nature.

single use plastics ban children in landfill

The Planet Is In Crisis

Among the many ways we are slowly killing not only our planet, but also ourselves, plastic pollution has now become a full blown global crisis. If you are still new to the whole sustainability concept, you might be thinking that plastic cannot be that bad. In the end, it’s one of humanity’s greatest discoveries, right?

Well…the answer is not so simple. There is no doubt that the benefits of plastic are not easily matched by any other material and for sure plastic is not pure evil. In fact, the single use plastic problem doesn’t even derive from plastic, but from the careless way that we are handling it. And if you still don’t believe that we are facing serious problems ahead and you might even start to wonder whether I am not just a plastic drama queen, let me give you some food for thought.

Single Use Plastic Ban Going Global

Our plastic addiction is so destructive, that can lead us straight to the end of the world as we know it. As a result, solving the single use plastic problem became a top priority on the agendas of many governments. In an attempt to minimize the harm we are causing to our environment, the single use plastic ban directive was adopted by the European Parliament in March 2019. As of 2021, the majority of the single use plastic products that are littering our earth and oceans, like drinking straws, plastic bags, glasses, cutlery or plates will be banned from selling within the European Union.

Luckily, European countries are not the only ones concerned with preventing plastic waste. In fact, measures were taken even since 2002, when Bangladesh became the first country in the world to ban single use plastic bags. South Africa came second in 2004 and soon after, countries like Morocco, Kenya and Rwanda have all adopted similar bans. And the good news doesn’t end here. Actually, one of this year’s greatest resolutions towards the environment comes from an unlikely place. China, one of the world’s biggest plastic producers and consumers agreed to join the single use plastic ban movement, by developing a massive plan meant to solve the problem throughout the whole country till 2022.

single use plastic ban - say no to single use plastics

Another big surprise for me was finding out the drastic measures that some countries have resorted to in their fight against plastic waste. A great example comes from Kenya. In 2017, Kenya adopted one of the toughest laws against the use of plastic bags. Kenyan people that are being caught producing, selling or even using plastic bags, can receive fines of up to $40,000 or can even risk being sentenced to jail. So in case you are planning to spend your next holiday in Kenya, it’s better to be on the safe side and pack in your suitcase a stylish organic cotton tote bag which can accompany you everywhere from the grocery store to the beach or even during a safari trip.

And since the single use plastic ban has become a global movement, there’s no surprise that it has even reached the highest heights on Earth. Starting January 2020, the authorities in Nepal have banned single-use plastics in the Everest region, in an attempt to try and reduce all the waste left behind by climbers.

As this is our first post in 2020, I will end by kindly asking you all to make a new year resolution and start thinking more about our environment. Every little step we take and every single thing we do can really make a difference. It is only together that we can heal the world and learn how to live in harmony with this beautiful planet that we all call HOME!

January 30, 2020 0 comment

4 Steps To An Eco Friendly Kitchen

by Megan Kioulafofski November 22, 2019

6 minutes read

Many of our kitchens have become hotspots for overconsumption and waste. All you need to do is take a look in your refrigerator, cupboard, or trash bin to see how many single use products find their way into your kitchen. While the amount of waste we make in our kitchen is shocking, there are simple steps you can take to create an eco-friendly kitchen. Follow the four steps below to help the environment, reduce clutter, and work towards a zero waste kitchen!

Step 1: Remove Plastic Bags From Your Kitchen

While you likely know plastic bags are bad for the environment, you may not know the extent of their damage. For starters, every year people consume more than 500 billion plastic bags worldwide. What makes this even more frustrating is that we only recycle 9% of the plastic we consume. That means most plastic is used once then discarded!

Too many people use plastic bags to bring their groceries from the store to their kitchen. Thankfully, there’s a solution to the plastic bag problem that prevents so many people from enjoying an eco-friendly kitchen. That solution is to invest in a set of organic cotton tote bags. Next time your cashier asks you “paper or plastic”, proudly hand them a reusable cotton bag to hold your groceries.

Plastic produce bags are another source of waste in your kitchen. If you want to make another stride towards a zero waste kitchen I suggest getting some reusable produce bags. Organic cotton bags are the ultimate eco friendly product that should be in every sustainable kitchen. Cotton bags are not only better for the environment, but are also bigger and sturdier than the flimsy produce bags you get at the store!

Step 2: Start Bulk Bin Shopping

Bulk shopping is a fantastic way to both save money at the store and build an eco friendly kitchen. Many supermarkets, especially health food stores, have bulk bin sections where you can buy dry goods such as grains, nuts, and spices without wasteful plastic packaging that gets in the way of a zero waste kitchen.

In order to truly go zero waste in the bulk bin section you must shop with reusable containers. If you want to be cost effective you can reuse kitchen jars as homemade eco-friendly containers for your food.

Before you go to the store, weigh your jar and find the “tare weight”. The “tare weight” is the weight of your container without food in it. This weight will be subtracted from your purchase at the store, once you fill your jar up with goodies!

If you want to really speed up the process, you can use reusable bulk food bags for bulk bin purposes. Cotton bags have the tare weight on their label, so you don’t need to weigh them. They’re also light, cheap, and easy to bring with you to the store and back to your eco-friendly kitchen!

If you don’t know where to go bulk bin shopping in your area, I suggest your local health or organic grocers. Bulk bins are especially common at these types of stores. There are also online resources you can use to find stores with bulk bins. My two favorites are The Zero Waste Home App and Litterless’s list of bulk bin locations.

Step 3: Ditch Paper Cleaning Products In Your Kitchen

reusable kitchen cloths for eco friendly kitchen

Paper towels, napkins, and other single use cleaning products have no place in an eco-friendly kitchen. Before I made a commitment to zero-waste living, I used to spend close to a hundred dollars a year on paper towels alone! Not only were they expensive, but they ended up right in the trash can after a single use. That’s not what you want if you’re trying to go zero waste in the kitchen!

With so many eco-friendly alternatives, there is simply no need to buy single use paper products for your kitchen. Instead of constantly buying paper napkins, why not purchase cloth napkins which you can wash and reuse again and again. Instead of buying paper towels, it’s much cheaper to buy eco friendly kitchen products like microfiber dish rags.

If you’re feeling adventurous you can turn this step into a fun DIY project! There are many easy zero waste swaps for paper towels and napkins. One of my favorites from this list is to cut up old clothes and bed sheets and use them as homemade kitchen rags. There are a ton of other items you can repurpose for your zero waste kitchen. This is your chance to get creative!

Step 4: Cook More Homemade Recipes

homemade jam for zero waste kitchen

Cooking from scratch is a delicious way to build an eco-friendly kitchen. Processed and pre-made foods often come in wasteful single use packaging that’s terrible for the environment. Homemade recipes are not only more sustainable, but they taste better than the cookie-cutter items you find at the grocery store!

Some of my favorite homemade recipes are for common kitchen sauces and condiments like ketchup, mustard, and salad dressing. Check out some delicious waste free recipes for these condiments. Once you finish a recipe, store it in a reusable container. Something as simple as an old glass jar works great! This helps cut out plastic waste from your eco-friendly kitchen.

If you want to take things a step further you can also make foods like bread and pasta from scratch. Check out these zero waste recipes for baking bread and making homemade pasta. These help you reduce waste in your kitchen and are also fun foody projects you can do with friends who are also working towards a zero waste kitchen!

If you’re committed to a more eco-conscious life, then the kitchen is the perfect place to start. Creating an eco friendly kitchen is a bold move towards a sustainable future. Use the four steps above to help you reduce waste and move forward in your goal of a zero waste kitchen and a zero waste life!

November 22, 2019 0 comment

Home Sustainability

4 Fall Zero Waste Projects You Will Fall In Love With

by Megan Kioulafofski October 2, 2019

10 minutes read

Fall’s almost here! School is back in session, the leaves are changing colors, and it’s a perfect time to make a renewed commitment to a no waste lifestyle. To celebrate the season I want to share some fun zero waste projects to try out.

In addition to welcoming in the new season, I want to show my readers that there are enjoyable ways to go zero waste. The wise Dale Carnegie said “people rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing”. These fall DIY projects are fun ways you can work towards zero waste. So let’s commemorate fall with 4 eco project ideas that have a positive impact on the environment, and you can have a blast completing!

Zero Waste Project 1: Reuse And Repurpose Household Items

clothes hanging on a rack for zero waste cleaning project

My first fall zero waste project is inspired by Bea Johnson’s “Fifth R of Zero Waste”. Reuse! I’ll bet you have a ton of household items that you can reuse or repurpose in creative eco-friendly ways. If you’re having trouble thinking of ideas here is one of my favorite ways to reuse common household items.

Do you have any old clothing or fabric you are considering throwing away? Perhaps a stained shirt, ripped pair of pants, or some dirty bed sheets. Instead of throwing them away, cut them up to make homemade dish towels. Used pieces of clothing make a fantastic alternative to paper towels and napkins. This is a fun and easy solution to decrease your use of pesky paper products that go straight to the landfill.

That’s just a few ideas for repurposing unwanted items in your home. There are plenty of other ways to get creative with the items you reuse. If you want to turn this into a bigger zero waste diy project check out other clever ways people have repurposed household items. Take a look at the links here and here for inspiration for more zero waste home projects.

Zero Waste Project 2: Create A Zero Waste Kitchen

zero waste kitchen with vintage and reusable jars and kitchenware

Looking for a zero waste approach to restocking your kitchen and pantry? Empty food jars make convenient cups and storage containers! Use those old jars and empty containers to store food items like rice, pasta, cereal, snacks, nuts, and spices. Most of these items come in non-reusable plastic wrapping so this will help with waste management in your kitchen.

Common kitchen condiments like ketchup, mustard, and salad dressing also come bottled in plastic. Replacing these pre-packaged sauces with homemade recipes is another fun fall DIY project for zero wasters. Check out Delish’s guide to homemade condiment recipes to get started. Why not make a cooking night out of it! These homemade recipes are a perfect excuse to prepare a meal with eco-conscious friends or family members!

To round off this zero waste project, make sure you pick up some reusable grocery and produce bags for your kitchen! This cuts down on wasteful paper and plastic bags that make their way from the store to your kitchen. If you don’t already have one, grab a reusable cotton produce or grocery bag.

Zero Waste Project 3: Do The Fall Declutter Challenge

simple linen vintage clothes hanging on rack DIY zero waste cleaning

The next idea is an eco project for your home, called the “Fall Declutter”. The start of a new season is a convenient time to evaluate what you do and don’t need in your home. Even if you’re an ardent zero waster, you probably have items that you don’t use. If you can’t find a way to repurpose unwanted items for Projects 1 or 2 now is the time to donate them to your local Goodwill or secondhand store.

To transform your declutter from a stale seasonal cleaning to a fun fall project I suggest you come up with a “challenge” for yourself. Make a benchmark for the amount of items you want to get rid of and set up a reward if you meet it. For instance, I like to reward myself with one item from my favorite secondhand store for every 5 to 10 things I donate.

To make the challenge even easier you can isolate it to a specific room in your home. If you need a desk for your office set a goal to donate 5 items in your office and reward yourself by purchasing a desk second hand if you succeed. This eco friendly home project helps you reduce clutter, and gives you an excuse to splurge a little at your local thrift store. Which is a “win/win” in my book!

Decluttering your home is also a step towards a minimalist lifestyle, which goes hand in hand with a zero waste living! Unnecessary clutter takes up space in your home and in your head. It’s not only wasteful but can serve as a constant source of worry and distraction. It gets in the way of what you really value in your life, and can divert attention from larger goals like your commitment to a zero waste lifestyle.

Zero Waste Project 4: Start Composting

composting zero waste project green grass growing in soil

Do you compost? If not, this is a fun eco project that has a huge impact on the earth! Composting is a zero waste disposal method which transforms material into organic matter that nourishes our soil. There are many environmental benefits to composting. It helps enrich the soil, reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, and fights climate change by lowering your carbon footprint.

Not sure how to compost? Well, there are tons of things you can compost. You can compost food scraps such as apple cores, banana peels, and egg shells. You can compost organic material like dead leaves, branches, and twigs. You can even compost household items such as paper towel rolls and egg cartons.

If you own or rent a home you can start a compost pile in your backyard. For a comprehensive guide on outdoor composting check out this great article on the subject from the Kitchn Blog.

Don’t have a house or backyard? No problem! There are plenty of ways to compost in your apartment. If you want an ambitious eco friendly project you can create a homemade Worm Bin. There are also indoor composting bins you can buy such as Bokashi Bins, and Electronic Composters.

If you don’t want to compost in your backyard or apartment many cities have composting programs. Search online to see if your city has either curbside composting or a private composting program. If your city does not have a municipal program many local farmers markets and community gardens have piles you can use.

Going zero waste doesn’t have to be a chore. Try one of the four suggestions above if you’re looking for an eco DIY project that is easy, fun, and great for the environment. If you have your own zero waste projects please share them in the comment section below. Help us make saving the planet more enjoyable for everyone!

October 2, 2019 0 comment

Pollution Sustainability

The Plastic Bag Problem: Using Safe Alternatives to Protect Our Planet

by Megan Kioulafofski August 21, 2019

7 minutes read

The grocery store can be a dreaded spot for the sustainable shopper. Plastic is everywhere! It lines the walls of the produce section. It covers the checkout counter. Not to mention just about everything you buy is packaged in it.

This plastic bag problem is a hurdle for anyone trying to live a greener life. It goes well beyond the grocery store. Plastic touches every part of our consumer culture. You know you should cut down on it, but it seems unavoidable. It’s gotten to the point where even the most environmentally conscious consumers are scratching their heads wondering how to use less plastic.

While fixing the plastic bag problem seems daunting, don’t despair! There are plenty of ways to cut back on your plastic consumption. In fact, a lot of them are easier than you imagine, and some of them are fun! In this article I want to show you how to use less plastic. You’ll learn 5 plastic reduction secrets that you can start to use immediately. But before we get there, I want to give you an idea of what the use of plastics costs us and the environment.

The Real Cost Of The Plastic Bag Problem

So how much plastic do we actually use? According to the nonprofit organization Conserving Now, every year people consume more than 500 billion plastic bags worldwide. If you’re doing the math that’s over a million bags used every minute!

Worst yet, we only recycle 9% of the plastic we consume. Most of it ends up in landfills, riverways, and oceans. According to the Journal Of Science between 4.8 and 12.7 million tons of plastic end up in the ocean every year, and 100,000 marine animals die from the waste.

While these statistics are disheartening, they are a clear call to action for people concerned about the plastic bag problem. Whether you’re a seasoned zero waster or just getting started there is no better time to commit to sustainability! Use the 5 suggestions below as a guide on how to use less plastic.

food in plastic at grocery stores

Use Reusable Shopping And Produce Bags

When people ask me how to use less plastic the first thing I tell them is to buy reusable grocery bags. Overuse of bags at the supermarket is at the heart of the plastic bag problem. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council the average American alone takes home 1,500 plastic bags in a year. That’s a lot! Simply by using reusable bags you’re taking a huge step to reduce your plastic consumption.

What type of reusable bags should you buy? If you’re really wondering how to use less plastic you should avoid most of the grocery bags they sell in the supermarket. While most grocery stores sell reusable bags, many of them are made from plastic. Plus most of these single use grocery bags are made of low quality synthetic material that breaks easily. This means you have to replace them frequently. Which only makes the plastic bag problem worse!

If you’re looking for a durable, environmentally friendly option I recommend picking up natural fibre reusable produce bags and reusable bulk bags. All the bags are made from 100% organic cotton and are GMO free so you can feel good about your purchase. They’re even packaged in recyclable paper boxes to reduce waste, and made with renewable energy. Plus, every shipment is offset with a percentage of the order invested in protecting our rainforests. A good set of reusable bags from a reputable brand is your first line of defense against the plastic bag problem!

Choose Fresh And Healthy Foods

The plastic bag problem doesn’t stop with grocery and produce bags. If you look around your local supermarket you’ll notice that many items come pre-packed or wrapped in plastic. This is especially true if you buy processed and frozen foods.

It’s not just the packaging, sometimes the ingredients themselves are literally made from plastic. Take chewing gum for example. Did you know that one of the main ingredients in chewing gum is a synthetic rubber called Polyvinyl Acetate? That means when you stick a piece of gum in your mouth you’re actually chewing on plastic. Yuck!

Buying lots of frozen and processed foods just adds to the plastic bag problem. Why not switch to natural fruits and vegetables instead? Bonus points if you follow the advice in step one and bring reusable produce bags and reusable bulk bags for your fresh food! Not only is natural food better for the environment, it is healthier and tastes delicious. It’s a great solution for people curious about how to use less plastic while enjoying a healthier lifestyle!

fresh fruits and veggies

Try Homemade Foods, Drinks, And Sauces

Instead of grabbing a big sugary container of Minute Maid juice, why not enjoy a cup of fresh squeezed Orange Juice? Instead of buying a bland bottle of French’s Mustard why not try out a home-made mustard recipe with a friend of family member?

This is my favorite suggestion to give people who ask how to use less plastic. It’s not only a great way to cut down on your plastic use, it’s an opportunity to try fun new recipes! There are a ton of recipes for homemade sauces and condiments. Most of them don’t take much time to prepare, and you avoid plastic packaging that contributes to the plastic bag problem.

glass of freshly squeezed orange juice

Get Reusable Containers For Your Food And Cutlery

The small plastic bags used to store snacks and sandwiches help feed the plastic bag problem. I recommend buying stainless steel or other eco-friendly containers for your food. They’re great for packing your kids lunch box or bringing a snack to work without using plastic.

If you like to eat out get a set of bamboo cutlery! It helps you avoid the pesky plastic forks and knives you get at some cafes and restaurants. If you want to take it a step further you can even buy a glass or stainless steel straw to use in place of the plastic one that usually comes with your drink. Make sure when you order a drink, to tell your server “no straw please!” It sucks (pun intended!) when you come prepared and bring your own reusable straw, only to have a plastic straw served in your drink.

bamboo cutlery and stainless steel straw sitting on organic cotton reusable produce bags

Ditch Plastic Water Bottles Once And For All

A recent study found that humans buy a million plastic bottles every minute. Most of them end up in landfills. However, what really shocked me is only 6-7% of plastic bottles are made from recycled material. This means even if you do recycle plastic bottles, hardly any of them get reused.

If you’re serious about sustainability, it’s time to stop buying plastic water bottles altogether. The good news is there are a ton of eco-friendly water bottles out there to buy. Check out this list to see some of your options! This is another big win for those curious how to use less plastic.

steel and blue colored reusable water bottles

It’s Time For You To Make A Difference!

While the plastic bag problem isn’t going away any time soon, you can take steps to be part of the solution. You’re well on your way if you took the time to read this article on how to use less plastic! But let’s not stop there. Now more than ever we need people to take action on behalf of the environment.

Facing the plastic bag problem can be overwhelming. To get started, I recommend you pick one of the five items in this article to focus on. Even something that seems small like investing in organic grocery and reusable produce bags can go a long way. Once you master one item on the list start moving on to the others. The world changes one step at a time. It’s time to take your first step towards a greener future!

stepping into a greener future

August 21, 2019 0 comment

Fashion Sustainability

What Is Organic Cotton? Discover Why You Should Make The Switch

by Megan Kioulafofski June 23, 2019

5 minutes read

When buying clothing and other textiles, natural is always best. The first use of the cotton plant as threads to make textiles date back to 1000BC. Since then, cotton has grown into a multi-billion dollar industry. Nowadays, plant-sourced fibres are near impossible to avoid. Cotton is not only used to make clothing, but also furnishings, bookbinding, fishnets, diapers and, of course, cotton balls – it’s everywhere! But how ethical and sustainable is the cotton industry?

We’re seeing more and more cotton items in the stores dubbed ‘organic’ – but what does that really mean? What is organic cotton? And what’s the difference between this and standard cotton? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about standard cotton vs. organic cotton.

How is cotton made?

You probably already know that cotton is a plant, but do you know how it becomes the clothing on your back? Cotton grows in warm climates. Together, India and China dominate the cotton industries producing a combined 12 million metric tonnes of cotton per year.

This cotton is grown, picked, processed and spun into yarn which is eventually used to create the clothes, furnishings and other household textiles we use every single day.

Cotton vs. organic cotton: what’s the difference?

So now we know where cotton comes from and how it has become our favorite clothes, we now come to ask: what is organic cotton? Just like with food, “organic” is a verification given by third-party organisations. In order to qualify as organic, a product must have a low impact on the environment, be cultivated without toxic chemicals and efforts must be made to maximise soil fertility. When you’re buying organic, you’re safe in the knowledge than there’s no toxic pesticides or synthetic fertilizers used in the process. Can I get an AMEN?

Organic cotton producers also say no to GMO. As a result of all these factors, the cotton produced is higher quality, better for the environment and safe for our skin. However, the yield is often smaller – which is why organic is often a little more expensive than that of the mass-produced cotton textiles we’re used to.

non GMO garden

Why should I buy organic?

Just because we don’t eat cotton, it doesn’t make organic any less important. There are a few reasons why we should always choose organic cotton when given the choice.

The first is that it is created in a much more ethical manner. Cotton is a huge crop – 25% of the world’s insecticides and 10% of pesticides are used on cotton crops alone. These pesticides and other chemicals used to cultivate cotton are incredibly harmful to the farmers in these developing countries. In fact, the chemicals pose a long term health risk for farmers and their families.

Whether it’s the risk of cancer or suicide, the facts really are shocking. If you’re keen to learn more about the true victims of the world’s cotton addiction, watch The True Cost on Netflix. This documentary explores the fast fashion industry all the way from field to shop front. You’ll learn all about the injustices of mass-produced cotton along with the benefits of choosing organic, for you and the farmers.

It’s not just the farmers who suffer, wildlife is affected by the chemicals too. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reports that pesticides are responsible for the deaths of 67 million birds annually in the U.S. Imagine the impact on the planet’s wider biodiversity, especially the oceans. We’ll never really know the true damage that cotton has caused.

If you care about the planet, then buying organic cotton should be at the top of your list. We can only begin to comprehend the wider environmental impact of cotton. It takes 2,700 litres of water to make one cotton t-shirt. Not only that, but the non-organic cotton industry produces an estimated 220 million tonnes of greenhouse gases a year.

So, if these chemicals are so dangerous and even fatal, then why would we want them near our skin? The truth is, we don’t. By choosing organic cotton, you’re saying no to these inhumane practices, the environmental damage and nasty chemicals. Protecting your skin and the planet at the same time – what’s better than that?

organic cotton tshirts

Making smarter choices

Next time you’re in the store, consider these facts when choosing cotton vs. organic cotton. By choosing organic cotton, you’re saying no to unfair working conditions, toxic chemicals, environmental damage on a local and global level, and long term damage to yours and your loved ones’ skin. The way we see it, you vote with your dollar – so make sure you always vote for something you believe in. That’s why we only use organic cotton when producing our shopping and produce bags, proudly certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard.

So, next time a friend asks: what is organic cotton? You’ll be equipped with the facts you need to share the important message of why organic is best for the planet, the people and our health.

Sources and further information on the topic:

https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/cotton-market
https://www.statista.com/statistics/263055/cotton-production-worldwide-by-top-countries/
https://www.ecochoices.com/1/cotton_statistics.html
https://www.commonobjective.co/#eff
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/organic-cotton-sustainable-fashion_b_3562788
https://www.swedishlinens.com/blogs/news/organic-vs-conventional-cotton

June 23, 2019 0 comment

Sustainability

Guide to Zero-Waste Travel: Discover These Easy Tips on How to Travel Sustainably

by Megan Kioulafofski June 1, 2019

7 minutes read

Caring for our planet is more important than ever. That’s why we should try to travel sustainably wherever we can. Every day of your journey, you can make the choice to avoid plastic, reduce waste and minimise your carbon footprint.

You only have to open your news app or turn on the TV to witness our planet at the hands of single-use culture. Be part of the solution and explore this beautiful planet with these zero waste essentials. There’s nothing better than traveling the shores of new lands knowing you’re leaving no trace behind. Keep reading to discover our zero waste travel essentials and how to travel sustainably.

boxed-water-suitcase-zero-waste-travel

Why travel sustainably?

There are so many reasons to travel sustainably. Exploring this planet we call home is one of life’s greatest joys, so why wouldn’t we want to take care of it as we go? Avoiding single-use plastic is one of the first steps toward zero waste travel. Scientists believe 8 million pieces of plastic are entering the oceans every day. Plastic waste is spread all over the ocean, but there’s a particular problem in the Pacific Ocean. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is the world’s largest dense area of plastic waste, about twice the size of Texas!

So, how does plastic end up in the ocean? Plastic is often blown from landfill or garbage trucks and into the waterways, this is particularly true for plastic bags and bottles as they are so lightweight. Many plastic products end up down the drain, either on purpose or by accident. And finally, litter can also find its way into sewers and rivers, all eventually ending up in the sea.

Zero waste travel isn’t just about avoiding single-use plastic. It’s also about making conscious decisions when making any kind of waste. Only purchase clothing you definitely need and avoid making food waste. Both of these small switches will help greatly when it comes to traveling sustainably!

Our friends Christine and Sarah from Wellness Travelled are experts in travelling sustainably, and have kindly shared with us some great tips to keep in mind for your next trip:

Go paperless

“Many airports offer paperless boarding passes – i.e. our fave airport, YYZ. We use this service whenever possible to cut back on our paper consumption. We also take screenshots on our phones of all our hotel and transportation reservations so that we don’t have to print those either.”

Don’t just jetset, offset!

“We carbon offset with Gold Standard. It is David Suzuki approved. They support renewable resource projects across the world instead of planting trees.”

BYOB (bring your own bag)

“Headed on a shopping spree in New York City or planning to visit some cool night markets? Bring a reusable bag (or 5) to avoid single-use plastic bags. Sol + Spirit reusable organic cotton bags are great if you’re buying fruit and veggies on your trip. Plus, if you’re going to certain countries like Australia, plastic bags are banned anyway, so be prepared :)”

bringing reusable bags to market while travelling

Such great tips! Check our their instagram page to follow their zero-waste adventures!

Zero waste travel essentials

Thankfully, it’s easier than ever to travel sustainably. You don’t need to spend a fortune to stock up on these zero waste travel essentials before your big trip. Just make sure every purchase is a conscious one!

Solid toiletries

Not only are solid toiletries a fantastic way to minimise your single-use plastic, but they’re also much lighter and easier to travel with. If you’re packing light, or even with just a cabin bag, you don’t have to miss out on your favourite toiletries if you pack solid. Cruelty-free cosmetics company Lush boasts a wide range of solid products, including shampoo and condition bars. You can even get solid face oils and shower gels!

Pick up a handy tin and keep your products dry after use, you’ll be surprised to see how long these amazing items last. Never carry a heavy shampoo bottle again!

Bring your own utensils

When you’re traveling, you’ll want to tuck into all the local delicacies. Dodge the plastic knives and forks and pack your own. We recommend investing in a bamboo utensil set, as this is not only an eco-friendly alternative to plastic but it’s also light and perfect for zero waste travel.

Don’t forget that packing utensils doesn’t just mean knives and forks. Pick up a few stainless steel straws, you’ll be surprised at how often you use them! In fact, an estimated 500 million plastic straws are used in the USA every day. From cooling smoothies to tasty iced coffees, a special cocktail or even just cold water – there’s always use for a straw.

Reusable water bottle

This is another zero waste travel essential. Depending on your destination, tap water may not be suitable for drinking. By packing your own reusable water bottle, you can fill up from the filtered water system at your accommodation before heading out for a day exploring.

When it comes to choosing a reusable water bottle, always opt for a stainless steel canteen. This will keep your water cold while lasting the rough and tumble of travel. If you’re traveling to a hotter climate, invest in a double-walled bottle, such as a Hydro Flask, so you’ll always have a supply of fresh, cold water to hand as you travel sustainably.

woman holding resuable flask on beach

Tote bags

Whether you plan on shopping for souvenirs or simply need something to carry your shopping, you should always carry a tote bag or two. You never know when you might need a bag, and by carrying your own tote you’ll always be able to say no to plastic.

Bamboo Toothbrush

Did you know that there are alternatives to common plastic toothbrushes? Although you use them more than once, your toothbrushes could all end up in the same place – the ocean. One billion plastic toothbrushes are thrown away every year in the USA. Each plastic toothbrush can take hundreds of years to decompose, while an eco-friendly alternative such as bamboo can break down in a matter of a few years.

Bamboo toothbrushes are both cheap and easy to come by – there’s no excuse for not swapping out the plastic in favour of this planet-friendly open when planning to travel sustainably.

bamboo toothbrushes in a jar

Whether you’re planning a short city break or a round-the-world trip, take these simple steps to make sure you always travel sustainably. What are your zero waste travel essentials? Let us know in the comments below.

June 1, 2019 0 comment

Home Sustainability

How To Live a Zero-Waste Lifestyle

by Megan Kioulafofski May 3, 2019

7 minutes read

As we become increasingly conscious of our impact on the planet, we ask how to live zero-waste? Not a day goes by without a news story about the devastating effects of plastic waste on the environment and ocean biodiversity.

What is zero-waste?

Zero-waste is a lifestyle where we strive to create the least amount of waste possible. We dodge single-use plastic in favour of reusable alternatives. We also make conscious decisions about every purchase we make.

Every single day we are faced with dozens of choices. The way we see it, every penny we spend is a vote, so remember to vote for what you care about. If you don’t need a plastic bag for your groceries, don’t buy one – or, better still, carry your own cloth tote bag wherever you go.

Even food waste can be reduced through conscious shopping and cooking. Don’t buy items for the sake of it, and when you need to throw stuff away try to compost rather than trash. Living a zero-waste lifestyle is so much easier than you think. It all starts with education and adaption. Keep reading to learn what zero waste is, why you should consider living zero-waste and how to live zero waste.

Why live zero-waste?

There are currently an estimated 12.7 million tonnes of plastic waste in the ocean. This plastic waste comes from a variety of sources, including single-use consumer products like plastic bags and bottles. The fishing industry is also a large contributor to the ocean’s plastic problem, with an estimated 46% of plastic waste in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch is from fishing nets.

The negative impact of plastic waste on the planet’s wildlife is insurmountable. Around 1 million seabirds die every year from injuries caused by ingesting or entangling themselves in plastic waste. While hundreds of thousands of sea turtles, dolphins, whales and fish are seriously injured or killed by plastic in the ocean.

You may be wondering how plastic gets in the ocean. Most of the plastic found in the ocean travels by river from highly polluted areas of landfill. So even if you put plastic in the bin, there’s still a very high chance it will end up in the ocean.

When it comes to dealing with plastic waste, living zero-waste is the way forward. Recycling is commonly thought of as a way to deal with plastic waste. But I bet you didn’t know that recycling uses a LOT of energy!? Not to mention that plastic items can only be recycled so many times before they are sent to landfill with the rest of your household rubbish. Plastic has fibres similar to paper, and each time it gets recycled the fibres shorten. Paper can only be recycled around 7-9 times, and plastic can only be recycled around 4-6 times. Yeah, this blew my mind when I found out too!

Living consciously and sustainably is all about producing less waste to start with. This enables us to take control of our impact on the planet. If everybody took the following steps towards a zero-waste lifestyle, we’d see huge changes to the planet – from land to ocean, and everything in between.

If you’ve been wondering “what is zero-waste?” and you’re ready to learn how to live this lifestyle, keep reading for some very simple tips and tricks you can introduce into your life today.

How to live zero-waste

There are several very easy switches you can make to become a more conscious consumer. Avoiding all single-use plastic isn’t always possible but reducing the amount we buy is not hard at all with these simple tricks.

Invest in strong shopping bags

It can be tempting to choose a single-use carrier bag every time we go to pick up groceries. You may even ease the guilt by convincing yourself that you will use it again. That may be true, but eventually, this bag will break, and you’ll need to recycle or trash it. In the end, it will become part of the problem rather than the solution.

To avoid this we can opt for natural fibre bags, such as organic cotton reusable produce bags or organic cotton tote bags, you’ll become part of the solution. A strong, natural fibre bag is not only great for groceries, but you can use it for anything. From beach days to clothes shopping, a baby bag or a packed lunch, these bags so versatile you won’t believe how often you reach for them.

We recommend keeping a couple of these organic cotton bags in your car and one in your handbag, this way you’ll never be caught short.

Opt for plastic-free fresh produce

You only need to walk through the supermarket to see how common single-use plastic has become. Where retailers would previously provide loose products and paper bags, you’ll now find fruit and vegetables wrapped in cellophane or in plastic containers. Although convenient, we already know about the damage single-use plastic can do to the planet and all who live here. But what can we do to avoid it?

The answer is: shop at local greengrocers. This way you’ll be buying local produce, meaning a smaller carbon footprint too. Instead of being drawn into multi-buys, where you end up wasting excess food, you can choose just the items you require for your planned recipes.

Many fruit and vegetable stores will be happy to see you use your own reusable produce bags. We get looks and compliments all the time, most people are very curious and intrigued to see us using them! By shopping this way, you’re minimizing food waste, your carbon footprint and even your plastic waste – it’s win-win-win!

Buy dry ingredients in bulk

Another fantastic and easy way to reduce your plastic waste is to buy dry ingredients in bulk. Keep old jars from sauces and chutneys. You can then use these again at the dry goods store for flour, nuts, seeds, grains, dried fruit and much more! Be sure to check with the store owner as they may want to weigh your container before you fill it up – this way you’re only being charged for the products you have bought.

bulk food jars with labels

So far, we’ve discussed three very simple ways to reduce your plastic waste. Are you ready to learn more about how to live zero-waste? The next point is a good one!

Compost your organic waste

You don’t have to be an avid gardener to make your own compost. Did you know that you can compost all organic food waste and several other common household items including coffee grounds, tea bags and even paper napkins?

Composting in your own home is much easier than you think. All you’ll need is a large compost container for the garden or yard and a smaller caddy in your kitchen. Pop all the food scraps into the caddy and empty regularly into the compost bin. Over time this will biodegrade, and you’ll be left with amazing compost you can use or share with your green-fingered friends!

If you’re not up for composting at home or you simply don’t have space, why not search online for a local initiative? Many areas welcome compost donations for allotments or public gardens.

Stainless steel water bottles

The next point about how to live zero-waste should be an obvious one. Over one million plastic drinking bottles are purchased every minute – that’s 20,000 per second! In 2016, fewer than half of the bottles bought were collected for recycling while just 7% of this number were turned into new bottles. This is another reason to dodge recycling and not buy plastic altogether. Sadly, the majority of plastic bottles are found in landfill or the ocean, just like the rest of single-use plastic waste.

Say no to plastic bottles and purchase a stainless-steel water bottle. By buying stainless steel, you are guaranteed several years (if not lifelong) use from the bottle and you’ll never have to buy a plastic bottle again.

When you’re out and about, use a water refill app to discover businesses nearby where you can top-up your water bottle. It’s as simple as that!

Say no to straws, or bring your own!

The final point on our list is a highly publicized one. The internet is full of videos of beautiful sea creatures, including seals, dolphins and turtles, suffering from ingesting or inhaling part of or a whole plastic straw. Starbucks, Hilton, American Airlines and Marriott are all among companies that have banned plastic straws in recent months, or are planning to ban plastic straws worldwide in 2019.

stainless steel straws and smoothie bowls

Unless you need a straw, the best thing to do is simply say no. However, we recognize that straws are beneficial for a few reasons including for people with disabilities or parents of small children. For that reason, we recommend picking up your very own reusable straws. Our favourite straws are made from stainless steel, but you can also get silicone or biodegradable.

Embrace these six points and you’ll be well on your way to a more sustainable life. What are your top tips for how to live zero-waste? Share your wisdom in the comments below and let us all become more conscious and caring individuals for the planet.

May 3, 2019 0 comment

Health Sustainability

A Plastic Bottle’s Harmful Effects

by Megan Kioulafofski July 22, 2018

2 minutes read

While plastics unfortunately have a large role in the modern society, there is one place where plastic can no longer be welcome; as a container for the water we drink and the food we eat. Plastic bottles have extremely harmful effects, yet most people continue to drink from them not knowing how it affects us.

Plastics are made from toxic materials, and when these toxic materials are ingested into the body, serious health problems and damage to the body’s cellular level rises. This can increase the likelihood of getting arthritis, cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, vision impairment, and more.

Our plastic consumption has become a widely known epidemic that has been creeping up on us over the years.

Here is a breakdown of our current consumption habits:

300 million tons of plastic is produced globally each year.
Only 10% of this is recycled, and the remaining 7 million tons ends up in the sea.
From here, it breaks down into tiny fragments over the years.
Once small enough, they are swallowed by fish. One study found that fish in the North Pacific ingest as much as 24,000 tons of plastic debris a year.

If this scares you, you are not alone!

Plastics are unavoidable in our daily activities. But there are alternatives we can consider. Sustainable consumption doesn’t happen overnight – it takes baby steps and consistency to change your mindset and human behavior in your everyday actions.

Here are some eco-friendly tips you can implement in your day to reduce your consumption of plastic and the plastic bottle harmful effects. Remember, you can do helps build a more sustainable future on a larger scale.

Stainless Steel Straws

Stainless steel straws are a great, fun way to be friendly to our planet and our sea friends. Do you remember that video of the turtle with a plastic straw lodged deep in his nose? No-one wants to be contributing to that.

Stainless Steel Containers

Consider using stainless steel containers; they are safer than plastic tupperware. They also last way longer, and if you are a pantry and fridge obsessor like me, they also look super chic.

Break-Proof Glass Water Bottles

Purchase one with a rubber coating that helps to prevent breakage, like this one by Glasstic. These have been drop tested, and come in tons of different colors!

Alternative To Non-Stick Cookware

To be on the safe side, use enameled cast iron or ceramic cookware. The coating on non-stick cookware is also a form of plastic.

Daily awareness of the detrimental and harmful effect plastic bottles have on our oceans can help us to make some simple changes in our day. When shopping, think about all of those plastic bags that will be thrown in the garbage and end up in our oceans. Buy food in bulk and bring your own containers.

‘Comon, you can do it. Say no to plastic.

July 22, 2018 0 comment

Food Health

6 Incredible Health Benefits of Greens

by Megan Kioulafofski July 22, 2018

6 minutes read

Dark leafy greens are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and flavonoids that fight off diseases, regulate a healthy immune system, burn unwanted fat, and keeps us looking and feeling younger than ever. These health benefits of greens are only scratching the surface.

Trust me, I know how hard it can be to live a healthy lifestyle. We all say we want it, but it takes time, effort, discipline and willpower to be healthy. Like people always say, “if it were easy everyone would be doing it”. Yet we all too easily get sucked into the ease and convenience of processed foods. Myself included.

Over time our taste buds have been accustomed to artificial sugars and flavors, which makes it all too easy to stop at McDonalds for a junior chicken than to go to the grocery store and pick up some real food. We have allowed ourselves to be influenced by the carefully crafted addictive flavors of food manufacturers.

Likewise, there is a social stigma attached to eating greens. We all know someone who gives us that judgey eye when we order a salad, or gets irritated when a vegan talks about their diet. The interesting part is we are fully aware that plants top the list when it comes to good health, but we’re somehow gripped by this processed food spell manufacturers have cast over us. The best we can do is to close our eyes and hum really loud while driving past McDonalds or Burger King to protect against the spells. Totally joking, do NOT do that!

But I DO encourage you to educate yourself on what you are putting into your body, and the effects it will have on you short and long term, because boy oh boy there are tons of health benefits of greens.

If you haven’t heard of the five life forces, then keep on reading to learn how you can incorporate these essential elements into your life to boost your health and vitality.

Now, each life force supports the other four. Here’s a quick rundown on how this all works.

alkaline foods - health benefits of greens

For example, if you’re eating all the right foods, that good nutrition keeps you slightly alkaline (Alkalization). If you’re drinking enough water (Hydration), you also allow your detoxification systems to flow more effectively (Detoxification). If you’re deeply, consciously breathing oxygen (Oxygenation) and eating oxygen-rich, raw foods (Nutrition), you’ll also create an alkaline body (Alkalization).

The five forces are all connected, so if you are consciously working on one of them, you will ultimately boost the rest.

Now that we have an understanding of the connectivity of these life forces, let’s talk about the health benefits of greens and why it is a huge contributor to aiding our nutrition.

Here are some amazing ways that plants can change your health and your life:

1) Provides the body with folate

Folate deficiency is common today because the average person’s diet does not contain enough dark greens. This gives birth to a host of health problems such as birth defects, cardiovascular disease and digestive disorders.

folate is found naturally in foods such as fruits and dark leafy vegetables Overall, folate is an activator in the body and has a positive action on cardiovascular, neural and psycho-emotional health. The research suggests that maintaining a consistent dietary intake of folate is essential to managing homocysteine metabolism and protecting long-term health. Folate is abundantly present in dark leafy vegetables, and its function in the body is extremely important for a number of reasons. Folate is essential for metabolizing homocysteine into the amino acid methionine, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. It also plays a role in DNA synthesis and repair, and it encourages cell and tissue growth. It supports normal fetal development, promotes sperm viability, reduces the risk of stroke, encourages normal cholesterol levels, and lowers risk of dementia.

2) Burns fat

One of the many other health benefits of eating greens is weight loss. Vegetarians have an advantage over meat-eaters in terms of weight loss because they have a higher intake of fiber. Not only does a high-fiber diet enhance weight control and improve gastrointestinal function, but it’s also been linked to the prevention and treatment of chronic heart disease, reduced blood pressure, reduced risk of cancer, and blood glucose control.

Dark greens are super low-calorie and high in fiber, which makes you feel full while eating less, and are packed with active compounds and nutrients. They also contain nitrites which helps to brown fat cells. Unlike regular old white fat (which stores all of your calories!), the mitochondria-packed brown-fat cells burn energy and produce heat.

burn fat - health benefits of greens

3) Anti-Aging and Anti-Inflammatory

Dark leafy greens contains lots of magnesium. Magnesium deficiency damages cell DNA and accelerates “mitochondrial decay” which essentially causes cells to age prematurely, lose energy and become dysfunctional.

They provide anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids via alpha linolenic acid, some of which your body can convert to EPA and DHA, the kind found in fish oil. A common edible weed, purslane, is one of the best plant sources.

And can you say HELLO ANTIOXIDANTS? Beta-carotene and other carotenoids, vitamins E and C, lutein and zeaxanthin, all help prevent cancer, cataracts and premature aging.

Bottom line is that the folate, lutein, beta-carotene, vitamin K, fatty acids and magnesium present in greens have been discovered to highly influence aging. And not just that, but the antioxidants, cellular support, brain protection and anti-inflammatory benefits of greens also contribute to anti-aging.

So make sure you are eating at least one large serving of greens per day to get those health benefits!

4) Fights diabetes

Spinach, kale and other leafy greens are good sources of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C. Dark leafy greens also very low in digestible carbs, which help to keep your blood-sugar levels at bay.

In one study, increasing vitamin C intake reduced inflammatory markers and fasting blood sugar levels for people with type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.

Another study in diabetics have found that broccoli may help lower insulin levels and protect cells from harmful free radicals produced during metabolism.

Glucose imbalances that result in complications such as diabetes can be controlled by eating greens. Polyphenols, magnesium and ALA omega-3 fatty acid present in greens are considered to be of great importance in managing insulin sensitivity and glycemic load (these two need to function properly to keep diabetes under lock).

5) Promotes heart health

I think by now we have figured out that the vitamin K in dark leafy greens has far-reaching health benefits, and is abundantly found in dark leafy green vegetables such as kale, parsley, broccoli, spinach, iceberg lettuce, and cabbage.

Vitamin K plays a key role in the production of the hormone erythropoietin which helps to decrease blood viscosity, thereby reducing heart attacks and blood clots. The dietary fiber content of greens helps to regulate triglyceride levels and cholesterol in a positive way, thus ensuring that they do not cause distress in the body. As it also contributes to bone health, deficient levels of this vitamin raise the risk of hemorrhage, osteoporosis, and bone fractures.

6) Protects the body against toxins

Aflatoxins are one of the most well-known carcinogenic substances, and these toxins are produced by fungi. The chlorophyll that is abundant in leafy greens has a neutralizing effect on this cancer-causing substance. The chlorophyll magic in plants work by directly trapping the toxin and therefore rendering it harmless.

Adding healthy greens to your diet is SO simple nowadays with amazing recipes by Oh She Glows and the endless youtube videos like this one at the click of a button.

Now that you’re on the path to learning more about the health benefits of greens, I encourage you to continue your journey to eating clean, eating smart and eating local. Building a balanced lifestyle for yourself can be really fun! One of my favourite things to do is to buy all of my leafy plants and veggies from my local farmers market.

Learn more about why we need to support local farmers, how to shop at a farmers market, or what essentials you need to bring with you on your next market adventure.

July 22, 2018 0 comment