Do you want plastic-free, zero waste shopping that isn’t on Amazon? here you go!
Why plastic-free, zero waste shopping?
Plastic is a curse on the planet. It’s ruining everything – especially the oceans – killing birds, fish and turtles, and getting into our own bodies. According to Well Earth Goods, one in four fish tested contained plastic – so if those are the fish we eat, we’re eating that plastic too!
This is another benefit of shopping plastic-free and zero waste. Toxic chemicals like “endocrine disruptors,” which wreak havoc on our hormones and can cause a variety of problems in children (like ADHD), are added to a variety of conventional products, even though they have little cumulative effect on our health. Can. Plastic-free products are often made from healthier ingredients.
Although it can be hard to find plastic-free non-toxic options, there are plenty available to meet all your needs, if you only know where to look. These six online shopping sites will point you in the right direction. Shopping at one of these means you’ll create a lot less waste, as the sites we’ve chosen are (mostly) committed to being both plastic-free and zero waste.
Note: Six might seem like a lot of places to shop, so I suggest you take a look at them all and then start with one or two. You might want to try them all, or you might happily stick to just one. All of these will make it easy to do your non-toxic, plastic-free, zero waste shopping at a price you can afford.
What does “zero waste” mean?
“Zero waste” describes products that are reusable and easily recyclable so that when they can no longer be used, they can be easily recycled rather than thrown away. They may be packed in paper or perhaps no packaging at all, and shipped in cardboard boxes or reusable boxes that can be picked up by the retailer and reused.
Zero waste protects nature by reducing the amount of energy, water, trees and other materials required to make a product and deliver it to you. This also saves your money. Of the eleven dollars we spend, we waste a full dollar on throwaway packaging!
Comment: If you must shop on Amazon, don’t miss the 11 Ways I Reduce the Environmental Impact of My Online Shopping,
6 Top Plastic-Free, Zero Waste Online Shopping Sites
well earth stuff – Well Earth Goods sells everything you need for everyday life, from shampoo to cotton coffee filters, silicone sandwich bags to stainless steel baby bottles that convert into sippy cups. Additionally, “All Well Earth Goods products are packaged in 100% recyclable paper-based materials including recycled paper tape, recycled labels, recycled mailer envelopes and recycled paper for cushioning. No plastic is ever used, and as small boxes or envelopes as possible are used to reduce materials.
life without plastic – Life Without Plastic sells hundreds of products conveniently located in categories like “Plastic-Free Essentials,” “Home & Zero-Waste Life,” “Eat & Drink,” “Bath & Bobby” and “Kids & Babies.” Their website has good background information on common plastic types, plastics in the oceans, phthalates, and bisulfon A (BPA). They ship in non-plastic packing materials and sometimes reused boxes and packing materials. (They sometimes use packing “peanuts” made from cornstarch that are reusable, but not recyclable.)
ecocollective – This online retailer prioritizes “zero waste, sustainable options for skin care, hair care, journaling, wellness, and home.” They ship 100% plastic-free and carbon neutral using recycled paper boxes and envelopes, paper stuffing, paper tape, and compostable paper shipping labels. Tey uses a shipping service that offsets emissions for each shipment. You’ll find plenty of shampoo bars and soaps and shampoos in reusable glass and aluminum bottles that you can refill.
public goods – Plastics in all essential categories including personal care (shampoo, soap, menstrual care), bathroom (tree-free toilet paper; refillable hand soap dispensers), groceries packaged in paper, glass and aluminum, pet supplies Shop free and zero waste. , and even CBD oils and salves. Save money on discounted “surplus” items. Bonus: Public Goods will plant a tree for every order.
mighty nest – Mighty Nest offers eco-friendly, non-toxic options in most home categories including kitchen, cleaning, body, wellness and “on the go.” Most offerings appear to be plastic-free, and shipping is done using post-consumer recycled and recyclable packaging. For a monthly fee, you can become an “Exclusive Member” and receive discounts and free shipping. Once you reach the site, search “zero waste” to find reusable non-plastic options.
earth hero – Earth Hero chooses products and companies that use ingredients like organic hemp and sustainably harvested wood, are BPA-free and offset carbon emissions. They prioritize products made in the USA, and like other products on this list, ship in recycled packaging. Click on their Zero Waste tab to get started.
10 Ways to Embrace Plastic-Free and Zero-Waste Shopping
Here are 10 actionable steps to guide you on your plastic-free and zero-waste shopping journey:
- Audit Your Needs:
Before diving in, assess your current shopping habits. Make a list of items you regularly purchase and identify opportunities to switch to plastic-free and zero-waste alternatives.
- Embrace Reusable Bags:
Ditch single-use plastic bags at the grocery store. Invest in sturdy reusable shopping bags made from recycled materials like canvas or mesh. Consider keeping a few collapsible ones in your purse or car for unplanned shopping trips.
- Plan Your Meals:
Spontaneous grocery trips often lead to impulse purchases and excess packaging. Plan your meals for the week and create a grocery list to stick to. This helps you avoid buying unnecessary items and reduces food waste.
- Befriend Bulk Bins:
Many stores offer bulk dry goods like grains, nuts, and spices. Bring your own reusable containers and buy exactly what you need. This minimizes packaging and allows you to control portion sizes.
- Explore Farmers Markets:
Support local farmers and reduce packaging by shopping at farmers markets. Produce is often sold loose or with minimal packaging, and you can bring your own reusable bags for fruits and vegetables.
- Seek Out Refillable Products:
Look for products like shampoo, conditioner, and dish soap sold in refillable containers. Many stores offer refill stations where you can bring your own empty containers and replenish them.
- Embrace the Power of “No”:
Politely decline plastic bags at stores and restaurants. When offered plastic utensils with takeout, explain you prefer to use your own reusable ones.
- Get Crafty:
Think beyond store-bought solutions. Make your own cleaning products using natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. Sew reusable cloth napkins and wraps to replace paper towels and plastic wrap.
- Shop Secondhand:
Give pre-loved items a new life! Visit thrift stores and consignment shops for clothing, furniture, and household goods. This reduces demand for new products and keeps them out of landfills.
- Support Sustainable Brands:
Do your research and choose brands committed to sustainability. Look for companies that use recycled materials, minimize packaging, and offer refillable options.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your plastic footprint and embrace a more zero-waste lifestyle. Remember, every small step counts towards a healthier planet!
FAQs:
Plastic pollution harms ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. By choosing plastic-free and zero waste options, you contribute to a healthier planet and reduce your environmental footprint.
It describes reusable and recyclable products with minimal packaging, minimizing waste and saving resources
They require less energy, water, and materials to produce, reducing overall environmental impact.
Reusable water bottles, bamboo cutlery, shampoo bars in metal tins, and cloth napkins.
Non-toxic products, often found in plastic-free alternatives, promote healthier living environments by reducing exposure to harmful chemicals. Discover the advantages of choosing non-toxic options.
Zero waste shopping reduces waste disposal costs and encourages efficient resource use, ultimately saving money for both consumers and businesses. Learn how embracing zero waste can benefit your wallet.
Zero waste shopping conserves resources, reduces pollution, and minimizes greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability and climate action. Discover the positive impacts of zero waste living.
By supporting businesses that prioritize plastic-free and zero waste practices, you incentivize sustainable production and consumption. Explore ways to identify and patronize eco-conscious brands and retailers.
Most have dedicated sections or information on their packaging policies.
– Begin by researching and choosing a few reliable online stores.
– Prioritize non-toxic, eco-friendly products.
– Gradually transition to a plastic-free lifestyle.