Zero waste is a lifestyle that limits the amount of waste produced. In a broader perspective, this means stopping wasting – food, paper, plastic … Zero waste is a response to the current state of the environment – littering the seas and oceans has become a fact that nobody today denies. Everyone can contribute to the future to provide next generations with a better, pollution-free future. Learn about zero waste rules and bring changes to your life for the better.
5 R rules – basic assumptions of the zero waste philosophy
Zero waste is a new concept that is still being developed by people to whom the good of our planet lies at heart. Its main assumptions are the so-called rules 5 R, which will be an introduction to the topic. Here they are:
Zero waste is a new concept that is still being developed by people to whom the good of our planet lies at heart. Its main assumptions are the so-called rules 5 R, which will be an introduction to the topic. Here they are:
Refuse. What? Plastic bags, payment confirmations, tickets, plastic forks, straws and all other items made of plastic or paper that will land in the basket right after use.
Reduce. What? Above all, shopping – every time think about whether you really need something and what material it was made of.
Reuse. What? Glass bottles, boxes, bags … Remember not to throw away something just because it has broken down. Maybe you can fix such an item?
Recycle. How? Segregation of waste is a good start.
Rot. What? All organic materials (food leftovers, paper) can be used as compost, an extremely effective and versatile fertilizer.
How to start implementing them?
Like all changes, the zero-waste philosophy should be implemented gradually. It’s worth starting with small steps – a material bag instead of a plastic one is a great start! What else can you do?
Forget about plastic bottles. In most Polish cities (including Krakow) you can drink tap water without fear. Otherwise, it is worth investing in a filter jug and a bottle that you can take with you when you leave the house.
When shopping, use reusable boxes. It is an ecological alternative for paper and foil, in which the sellers usually pack cold cuts or cheese.
Also, remove the breakfast bags – you can successfully replace them with their cotton counterparts.
Do not use paper towels – replace them with traditional cloths.
Avoid printing tickets – often when traveling, just show the purchased ticket in an electronic version, on your phone or tablet.
Plan purchases – do them more often, and less. In this way, you will reduce food waste.
If this food breaks down anyway, do not throw it away – use it for compost, which will feed your plants.
There are many more methods to reduce waste – it is impossible to list them all. The above examples are to create an overall picture and inspire you to create your own rules for implementing the zero waste concept. If something interesting comes to your mind, be sure to share it with other enthusiasts of ecological solutions.
Zero waste – ecology and what else?
Environmental protection is by far the most important, but not the only, benefit of living in harmony with zero waste principles. Another is saving money that you will not spend on plastic bags, mineral water or unnecessary hygiene items. What’s more, one of the most important principles of zero waste philosophy, recycling, is of great importance to the economy – processing is a much cheaper method than the production of new products. Waste can also be successfully used to generate energy.
Wiślane Tarasy 2.0 is an example of ecological design, which is an expression of care for the environment. The philosophy of zero waste is not unknown to its creators, therefore we encourage you to practice it together. We believe that taking the content of this article to heart will be the beginning of a new life – free from waste.
