Did you know the average American family throws away around $2,000 worth of food yearly? That’s a lot of money down the drain. When we look at the global data, food waste is one of the major sources of waste in our homes, taking up an estimated 20% of all household trash. Of course, living without waste is not only about reducing food waste.

Here are some other common sources of waste that we can all work towards reducing:

Single-Use Plastics

Single-use items are some of the most polluting items, and many end up in our homes. Plastic bags, utensils, straws, water bottles, and food wraps are single-use plastics that decompose for hundreds of years. Switching to reusable items can save money and help reduce plastic waste.

Electronics

Old electronics can contain highly toxic materials like lead, mercury, and flame retardants. If disposed of improperly, they are very dangerous to the environment. Consider donating or recycling your old electronics instead of throwing them out.

Clothing

Americans are estimated to throw away 80 pounds of clothing each year. To cut back on this, donate your clothes or shop second-hand instead of buying brand-new items.

Packaging

Packaging is an often overlooked source of waste in our homes. Cardboard boxes and plastic wrappers accumulate quickly and occupy significant space in our garbage cans. When shopping, opt for products with minimal packaging or buy in bulk to reduce the waste you create.

Cleaning Products

Cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that damage the environment and can even be dangerous to our health. Opt for natural cleaning solutions (like vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice) or buy eco-friendly cleaning products.

Leftovers

The good news is that food waste can be reduced. Plan meals ahead of time to ensure you’re only buying what you need, and composting any leftover food scraps is a great way to keep them out of landfills.

Hygiene Products

To reduce waste in the bathroom, look for hygiene products like soaps, shampoos, and toothpaste packaged in cardboard or glass instead of plastic. If you have to buy plastic packaging, recycle it properly.

Conclusion

Reducing waste in our homes will have a big impact on the environment. Practicing good habits, like choosing recyclable items, composting, and donating old items, can help us get closer to living without waste. If we want to achieve a zero-waste lifestyle, it’s important to tackle all sources of waste in our homes.