low waste

Spring at The Ecology Center + A New Channel!

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A collage of photos from our visit.

Hello, all! Where is the time going? It feels like the holidays were yesterday. Life has been a bit of a rollercoaster since my last post, which is why I’ve been absent for awhile. Just when I think life is calming, something pops up. May is my birthday month, and even though I didn’t do much on the day, it was nice. All that being said, I have finally established a schedule for posts as well as something new, which will be discussed further below. I also have some spring-inspired favorites that I found at The Ecology Center during our visit in March.

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Plastic-Free July 2024 & Blueland x Darphynia

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*This post contains affiliate links that provide a commission at no cost to you.

As Plastic-Free July reaches its end, we are taking time to reflect on how much packaging and waste is placed on the consumer. Instead of manufacturers and corporations being responsible for how they package and produce their own goods, the consumer is left with the choices they are presented with. It is nearly impossible, depending on your area and situation, to find household products that are free from any sort of plastic. For some, the ability to choose more sustainable options is present, but it can come at a cost…and it’s not just monetary. One brand that has been providing planet-friendly and relatively plastic-free products since the beginning is Blueland. And, if you want to give them a try, you can purchase refill packs that won’t break the bank (plus, their packs are recyclable/compostable).

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Plastic-Free July 2022: Weeks 1-2

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It is that time of year again. Plastic-Free July is in full-swing. Even though there aren’t many plastic-free package options, regarding food, available in my area I am going to do my best to limit the amount of plastic packaging brought in (as always, medical necessities do not count). I should note, while we’re on the subject of medicine, if you have a disability that requires you to use single-use plastic items, this may not be a challenge you can participate in. That is okay. You should never feel shame nor guilt, and you shouldn’t be bullied by ableists.

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No-Spend November & an Update

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Image courtesy of istockphoto

It’s hard to believe that we are nearly in December. Since we are still staying in, and we don’t buy much online these days, our purchases went to gas, medication, and food. I work from home, which is nice because there is no commuting. We’ve only had to get gas maybe every 1-2 months. We bought pet food and food for us. The total was roughly $300 and includes cat food for two months and our food that lasts at least a month. The goal is to do a month of shopping in one go so we’re not needing to go out nor have food delivered. Plus, with the rise in food costs, we’d rather stock up now than later.

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Plastic-Free July: The End + Update

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As another Plastic-Free July comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the past weeks. Week 3 started off with food and drinks being bought. It’s rude to refuse a kind gesture (of course there are always exceptions), and luckily just about everything is recyclable in my area. Week 4 closed with some plastic packaging from an online grocery order, a couple of straws, and a couple of drink lids.

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Plastic-Free July: Week 2

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This week I went to the Japanese market. Of course everything is wrapped in some sort of plastic, which is very convenient for people on-the-go. However, it’s a huge issue when you live relatively waste-free. Luckily, for me, our area recycles all types of plastics that can then be reused instead of tossed (well, as long as people keep at it). Needless to say, this week I accumulated far more plastic than I had planned. Note to self: Don’t deviate from the list. I’m also counting the individual wrappers. After all, they too, are plastic.

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