Happy Earth Month!
April is a time to reflect on how our daily choices impact the planet, and how we can make changes to reduce waste, conserve resources, and protect our environment. Small shifts in our habits can make a big difference! Here are five practical zero waste tips you can adopt this month (and beyond). Want to increase your impact? Chat with your friends about what new habits you’re adopting!
1. Skip Single-Use Plastics
Prevent microplastic pollution and landfill waste by keeping a reusable water bottle, coffee mug, and set of utensils with you when you’re on the go. Say no to plastic bags and bring your own reusable bag when shopping.
2. Compost Your Food Scraps
Composting is a simple way to reduce waste and give food scraps a new life as a nutrient-rich soil additive. Make sure all of your food scraps, yard waste, and paper towels go into your green curbside compost bin. (Don’t have a green compost bin? It’s the law to have access to one at your home, apartment, or business!)
3. Shop Secondhand
From clothing to furniture to electronics, buying used helps keep items out of landfills and reduces demand for new products, which saves energy, resources, and emissions from production. Check out local thrift stores, vintage shops, or online secondhand marketplaces.
4. Repair Before You Replace
Whether it’s mending a piece of clothing, fixing a small appliance, or patching up a piece of furniture, choosing to repair keeps useful materials out of the landfill. Learn basic repair skills like sewing buttons, patching clothes, or fixing small appliances. Zero Waste Marin will be hosting repair fairs throughout Marin County in 2025 - check out the upcoming events
5. Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk allows you to avoid excessive packaging and minimize the amount of single-use plastic waste. Look for bulk refill stations for items like laundry detergent, soap, and cleaning supplies. (Check out a list of refill options in Marin)
Every small action we take adds up to a big collective impact. Reducing waste, extending the life of products, and minimizing our consumption are powerful ways to protect natural resources and combat climate change. This Earth Month, challenge yourself to adopt one (or more) of these zero waste habits and inspire others to do the same!
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