A sustainable future is needed
The climate crisis makes us question if we can achieve sustainability. Additionally, the pandemic has heightened awareness of climate change and environmental collapse. It has also led to an increase in disposable consumption, such as masks and gloves.
Moreover, our environment exhibits a surge in plastic consumption and waste. For instance, virtual market apps have become popular, resulting in more plastic bags replacing cloth bags.
So, what approach should we adopt to achieve a sustainable future?
How can we integrate existing approaches into our daily lives?
Approaches to waste management
There are two main approaches: “reduce, reuse, recycle” and “zero waste.”
The “reduce, reuse, recycle” approach, also known as the 3R hierarchy system, is a waste management system. On the other hand, zero waste is an approach introduced by chemist Paul Palmer around 50 years ago to minimize chemical waste in laboratories.1 According to the zero waste approach, materials are continuously reused until their optimal point, creating a recurring redistribution mechanism within the system. Once materials can no longer be reused or repaired, they are recycled, and waste is recovered.2 In addition, the 5R (Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recycle, Rot) hierarchy is adopted. It emphasizes refusal before reduction and considers recycling as a last resort.3 Food waste and organic waste are composted; composting is a recycling process that uses organic waste such as vegetables, fruit and eggshells as fertiliser.
The 3Rs and 5Rs are adopted worldwide. San Francisco’s waste management success inspires hope for a future with zero waste. In 2012, San Francisco diverted 80% of waste from landfills, and aims to reduce waste by 15% by 2030. Many people, including activists, are calling attention to the importance of individual waste management.
Challenges of zero waste
Many people are aware of the issue of waste, but it can be difficult to make changes in their own lives. Nevertheless, it is important to take action, even if it is small.
Despite the challenges, remember the phrase from zero waste activist Anne Marie Bonneau:
“We don’t need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly. We need millions of people doing it imperfectly”.
Anne Mare Bonneau
Taking Action
Taking action, no matter how small, is essential.
Start waste management gradually, incorporating simple changes into your lifestyle.
Suggestions
Use a menstrual cup instead of pads during your period.
Opt for silicone cotton buds instead of disposable earbuds.
Switch to silicone or long-lasting knitted shower fibers instead of plastic ones.
Replace cling film with silicone stretch lids.
Use silicone baking mats instead of baking paper.
Consider using digital diaries instead of traditional ones; Trello is one application that can increase productivity in this regard.
Avoid using cotton wool for skincare and transfer products to spray bottles.
Stop buying disposable face masks.
Use spray cologne instead of wet wipes.
Switch to reusable bottles instead of plastic ones.
Use cloth bags instead of plastic bags.
Specify that you do not want plastic cutlery when ordering food online.
Prefer electronic media over paper output.
Do it yourself (DIY) products
Let’s build a sustainable future together!
You can tailor these suggestions to your own needs and protect the environment.
We hope you will separate your waste and recycle as much as possible!
Thank you for reading,
Love