The dream of a completely zero-waste existence is difficult to pull off; however, there are actions people can take at home to help. In fact, there are lots of small ways to reduce your landfill footprint, from getting to know your recycling bins to changing your grocery store habits. 

4 Simple Ways to Reduce Your Waste at Home

1. Learn Your Recyclables

How many times have you gone to throw something out and hesitated because you didn’t know if it was recyclable or not? People are pretty familiar with the basic items: aluminum cans, glass bottles, cardboard. But items like batteries, light bulbs, and printer cartridges can all be recycled through specific drop-off programs. Check with your local recycling center or library to see what’s available in your area.

2. Pare Down Your Wardrobe

Buying clothes is not usually something you think generates trash, but in addition to all the packaging (bags, tags, shipping material) that comes along with a new garment, you may not wear the shirt itself longer than a few months. Try streamlining your wardrobe to key essential pieces, and before you buy something new, ask yourself if you really need it. When you do get rid of clothes, try to donate whenever possible.

3. Reduce Single Use Plastics

Carry a sturdy water canteen bottle with you instead of buying bottled water. Bring your reusable bags to the grocery store instead of using plastic ones. Even in your bathroom, you can cut down on waste by using razors that are not disposable, and toothbrushes that change heads. Instead of using paper towels, try keeping rags and washcloths around for spills. There are many ways to change our lifestyles in tiny ways that result in less trash. 

4. Keep Reusable Containers in the Kitchen

Next time you go to the grocery store, stop and take a look at their bulk section; this can be a fantastic place to cut down on packaging. Basics like rice, oatmeal, coffee, flour, and sugar are all available to be bought in bulk. And when you bring your own jars or containers, you’re saving even more plastic. As motivation, keep in mind it’s usually cheaper to buy from the bulk section too. 

Freedom From Waste in Farmington, MO, is a different kind of recycling company. They are committed to becoming a zero-waste company and helping their neighbors to do the same. They provide permanent dumpsters or temporary dumpster rentals, waste management solutions, and garbage collection services. Their recycling center also takes donations of clothing and items as part of their commitment to reuse whenever possible. For more information, call (573) 747-0550 or visit them online.