The definition of zero waste according to Zero Waste International Alliance is:

“The conservation of all resources by means of responsible production, consumption, reuse, and recovery of products, packaging, and materials without burning and with no discharges to land, water, or air that threaten the environment or human health.”

Cutting back on unnecessary purchases and create less waste, makes a huge impact on your local community, the environment around you and our planet.

The simplest way to start your zero waste journey is to concentrate on one item at a time.

Trying to eliminate everything at once can be far too overwhelming and bad habits come back.

So, to make things a little easier, I have created a five step guide that offers a little insight and how to begin a zero waste lifestyle.

Write a list of the groceries you buy each week, what gets eaten and what doesn’t. Then think about everyday items you wear and appliances you use.

Have you ever thought about how many clothes you own. Do you have more than you actually wear and do you really need the latest clothes or shoes?

Another point to consider is the other items you buy. Do you really need that crafty mechanism or appliance advertised online or on a TV Show?

Before buying anything, make sure you really truly need it and have a think about the following questions:

• Am I going to use it regularly?
• Is this item really necessary?
• Do I have the money to buy this?
• Have I already got something similar?

We have all heard the old sayings, ‘The Poor Man Buys Twice’ and ‘Buy Cheap, Pay Twice”

So, before you make a purchase, look at the quality of the product. Where is it made and what is it made from?

It is better to buy something of good quality that will be long lasting, rather than something cheap that will break in a few months time.

Alternatively, you can look for second hand items. Whether it’s visiting an online marketplace, a local garage sale or visiting a charity shop. There’s options available to suit everyone.

This is one step that many people struggle with. Everywhere we look, we see advertisements and sales that are targeted to our likes and behaviours.

So, instead of dwelling on negatives and thinking about what you don’t own, think about the positives and what you do have. Be content with what you have, and the people around you.

Possessions do not make us happy, happiness is created when we experience life and indulge ourselves in our hobbies and adventures.

If you are not sure what your hobby is or want to try something different there’s plenty of opportunities. Try something new such as a cooking class, pottery or even learn to scuba dive!

Alternatively, you could join a group focused on wellness, yoga or swimming. Focus on yourself and your inner happiness.

My favourite zero-waste tip for beginners is to grow your own veggies.

No matter where you live, whether it’s a small studio apartment in the city or home in the hills you can always grow something edible.

For smaller spaces a herb box is perfect for a balcony or kitchen window. If you have a garden, you can get more creative with your space and dedicate a small (or large) area for a herb garden or/and  a veggie garden. If you have plenty of space, then why not plant some  of your favourite fruit trees.

If you really don’t have space at home, then another great option is to join your local community garden. Here you can have a dedicated space to grow veggies, ask for gardening tips and make new friends.

Compost bins save an enormous amount of food waste and also offers several other benefits.

Home composting is suitable for all homes and it doesn’t have to be the size of a garbage bin. Many smaller alternatives are available including Urban Composter that are ideal for your kitchen worktop or balcony.

Composting is a great way to reduce the amount of garbage that you send to the landfill and also promotes growth, so your plants, soil and home grown veggies will be healthier and happier too!

There are many benefits to a zero waste lifestyle. Even small changes can make a huge difference to our environment. It is something we should all consider and share our ideas with others.

By choosing to make a difference you will be contributing to a healthier environment, in your home and around the world.

Here’s a list of the positive changes you can create:

• Reduce Landfill
• Prevent plastic pollution
• Less plastic waste
• Less food waste
• Eliminate single-use plastics
• Protect the planet
• Protect our wildlife
• Reduce the emission of greenhouse gases
• Help fight climate change
• Allows you to live a more mindful life
• Helps you save money