Is Zero Waste Attainable?

Lately I’ve been struggling with the concept of zero waste + whether or not it’s actually attainable, at least for me.

I’m such a big overachiever + I strive for all the things. Not exactly my best qualities 🤷🏻‍♀️ But since switching to living as ethically + sustainably as I can, this seems to be the one part I literally keep tripping over.

What exactly is zero waste?

Zero waste is a set of ideals/principles that focuses on waste prevention + instead encourages the idea of reusing everything. The end goal of zero waste living is that nothing gets sent to the landfill, ends up in oceans, or is incinerated.

In theory, this sounds Ah-MAZING! Nothing in the landfills or floating in the ocean. No harsh fumes from items being incinerated. All the emoji praise hands 🙌🏻 🙌🏻 🙌🏻

But is it actually a lifestyle that is attainable for everyone?

I think my answer to that question is quite possibly a very unpopular no.

Before you completely tune me out, let me explain.

While I think the idea of living a zero waste lifestyle is great, I just don’t think it’s something everyone it able to actually achieve. Making switches towards living more ethically or sustainably can be expensive + let’s face it, life is already expensive as it is. Plus, it’s challenging for everyone to make these switches, even the most basic ones, or they may not have the access to make them.

Personally I struggle with the concept of zero waste because since I have a pet I’m going to have waste. I also have some crazy food allergies that really limit what I’m capable of eating + with those restrictions there is sometimes some waste. However, I try to be responsible with how I dispose of all waste; recycling all the time when I’m able, disposing of things properly, + being smarter in my purchases.

So instead of striving for zero waste, I’m aiming for less. I’m going to focus on living within my means + not buying more than I need to; no matter HOW much I want whatever it is.

Less clothes in my closet.

Less cat toys (that he won’t play with anyway 🙄).

Less food waste.

Less books on my shelves (hello library!).

Less makeup + personal care products in my bathroom.

Less office supplies (any fellow pen addicts??).

Less is more

I’m also going to focus more on using the products I already have before tossing them. I want to be more mindful of my shopping habits + ask myself whether I actually NEED it before I make the purchase.

I vote for giving grace to others + allowing them to not strive for goals they won’t be able to reach. No shaming here! Rather, let’s make the goals we are comfortable with instead, especially in our finances, + celebrate with others when they reach them! 🥳

Are you with me?