You can have your own low waste habits. For example: taking your own bags to the supermarket, using a reusable coffee cup and water bottle, and eating a plant-based diet. Pretty simple stuff. But when you really start to lean into zero-waste living, you will begin noticing other people’s reluctance to make even the smallest of changes.
PREVENT MATERIAL WASTAGE
• Buy only what you need.
• Make replacement purchases only if you need to.
• Learn to celebrate special occasions without gifts.
PREVENT FOOD WASTAGE
• Cultivate the habit of packing food.
• Bring your own cooking materials whenever you go out. Buy only what you need.
• Finish the food at home first before you buy more.
• When ordering out, exclude the food in the order if you don’t plan to eat it (e.g., smaller rice serving, no fries, etc.).
PREVENT PLASTIC WASTAGE
• Bring your own bag.
• Save plastic cups at the office or in cafes by using a mug or reusing your cup.
• Save plastic utensils.
PREVENT PAPER WASTAGE
• Print only if you need to.
• Go for soft copy over hard copy.
• Use rough paper if you need to write.
• Use a handkerchief or towel over paper napkins or tissues.
PREVENT WATER WASTAGE
• Turn the tap tight every time.
• Take short showers (3-4 minutes) over baths or long showers.
• When washing your face, use a basin and a sponge (rather than let the water run).
• Use a mug to rinse your mouth.
• When at home, use the same set of utensils, plate and bowl. Wash if dirty.
• Install a dual flush for your toilet. Use half flush if it’s a number one and full flush if it’s a number two.
• If you use a dishwasher, turn it on only when it’s full.
• Do your laundry only when you have a maximum load.
PREVENT ENERGY WASTAGE
• Switch off lights when not in use.
• Switch off appliances when you’re not using them.
• Don’t get a car unless you absolutely need to.
• Use alternatives to private transport.
OTHER TIPS TO PREVENT WASTE
• Cultivate the habit of recycling. But remember, recycling also takes energy.
• Donate things you don’t need.