7 Myths about Zero-Waste Living (and 3 Surprising Truths)
You may have seen the popular show “Mythbusters,” where the team takes popular ideas and tests them to see if they’re true.
In this post, we want to invite you to a special edition of Zero-Waste Mythbusters. We’re busting some common myths and misconceptions about zero-waste living — and discovering some interesting truths, too.
Why are we debunking these myths? Because each of them can become an obstacle in your zero-waste journey. And we’re all about making zero-waste easier and more approachable.
So, let’s get busting!
Myth #1 Zero-Waste Living is Expensive
Actually, you can start your zero-waste journey on any budget. A lot of the basics to help you reduce waste are inexpensive — like reusable bags, straws, or a water bottle.
It’s true that there can be initial costs when you’re switching to zero-waste. But over time, these investments pay off. Focusing on quality, reusable products means you don’t have to re-purchase as often.
And a lot of items can serve more than one purpose — for example, you can use mason jars for just about anything! And items like our Organic Cotton Travel Sack can store everything from your shampoo bar to your favorite necklace.
Myth #2 Going Zero-Waste Takes Too Much Time
Most zero-waste choices fit into your routine without taking extra time. Some things, like composting, take longer — but you always have the flexibility to decide what works for you.
One way to streamline sustainable living is to plan ahead. This could apply to meal prep, shopping, or even deciding when you need to order your next Shampoo Bar. Planning ahead makes zero-waste living easier — and it helps you avoid scrambling at the last minute.
To help you save time, we’ve integrated an easy subscription service to our shop. That way, you can get your zero-waste essentials delivered to your door automatically. It’s one less thing you have to worry about, and you always have what you need.
Myth #3 Zero-Living Means Sacrificing Convenience
To be totally honest with you, there may be a few areas where you’ll sacrifice some of the “convenience” you’re used to. And we think that’s okay. Plastic bottles and single-use meal kits may be convenient, but they come at a high cost to the planet.
But there are many ways that zero-waste living is just as convenient. And sometimes even more so! Have you ever been parched on an outing without anywhere to buy a water bottle? When you bring your own, you don’t have to worry about it.
Another way zero-waste can actually be more convenient: travelling with solid soap, face bars, or shampoo bars is a breeze. Instead of worrying about liquid limits or leaks, you can just wrap it up and go.
Myth #4 You Have to Make Everything Yourself
You might feel intimidated by the world of zero-waste DIYs out there. But going zero-waste definitely doesn’t mean you have to make everything from scratch.
Now more than ever, more companies are offering sustainable alternatives to the products you already use. You can easily switch to a Zero-Waste Dish Bar or a Face Bar — no DIY recipe mixing required.
If you do enjoy DIY, making some things yourself can help you save money and excess packaging. Two quick-and-easy swaps are to make your own condiments or cleaning sprays.
Myth #5 You Can’t Use Anything Plastic
Maybe you’ve seen pictures of homes where everything is made of bamboo, twine, and cotton. You might have felt the urge to throw out every plastic bin and never touch another spray bottle.
But in many cases, it’s actually better for the planet to keep using what you have. Only about 9% of plastic gets recycled — so extending its useful life can help reduce waste.1 As long as the plastic isn’t a hazard to your health, you can hang on to your trusty bins and bottles.
Instead, focus on sustainable materials when you purchase new items. You could try a Poplar Bar Holder for your new soap. Or ditch your synthetic sponge for a Compostable one.
Myth #6 You’re Not “Doing it Right” if You Aren’t 100% Zero-Waste
There’s a popular saying: the perfect is the enemy of the good. You might be so worried that you can’t do things perfectly that it’s hard to even start.
But zero-waste isn’t about perfection — we think it’s about the journey just as much as the destination. There’s no “zero-waste inspection crew” to score your efforts. So embrace the imperfection and do what you can instead.
Myth #7 Going Zero-Waste Only Works for a Select Few
In our world of social media influencers, it’s easy to feel you can never measure up. But the zero-waste movement is open to everyone.
And it can work in every lifestyle and schedule. Even if you feel like you’re constantly going 90 miles an hour, you can find simple ways to reduce waste in your life.
Which brings us to our first truth about zero-waste living.
3 Surprising Truths about Zero-Waste Living
Truth #1 Going Zero-Waste Can Make Your Life Better
It’s no secret that modern life seems to get busier and more stressful with every passing day. You might feel like you can’t add one more thing to your to-do list.
But zero-waste living doesn’t subtract from your life — it adds to it in unique ways. Choosing zero-waste can help you slow down, simplify, and feel better.
Many zero-waste products are made to be great for your health as well as the planet. Everything in our shop is made with natural ingredients (and nothing harsh or harmful).
Truth #2 Zero-Waste Living Gets Easier Over Time
Just like any new habit, going zero-waste becomes easier the more you do it. Before long, it will become another part of your routine. You’ll also figure out what works for you and find your groove.
One way to make the transition easier is to find a tribe. We have an awesome Facebook and Instagram community full of conscious people. We’d love for you to join us and share your own progress.
Truth #3 Simple Zero-Waste Choices Make a Difference
You may feel like what one person does can’t make a difference. But the truth is that every single choice matters. The little things you do every day can add up to make an amazing impact.
And you never know — your choices might inspire others to join in, too!
Zero-Waste Living Myths = Busted
Now that we’ve debunked some common misconceptions about zero-waste, we hope you feel empowered to get started (or continue) your quest to live a more sustainable life. The journey will look different for everyone — and that’s one of the things we love about it.
Check out our shop to stock up on waste-free essentials for your home. And let us know in the comments if you’ve heard any other “myths” about zero-waste living!
Sources:
- https://www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/plastics-material-specific-data