Towards Zero Waste Beauty
What Zero Waste Means
Blogs have cropped up all over the internet discussing how to cut down waste in every aspect of your life. With conscious life choices and strict guidelines, many zero waste influencers are able to showcase the trash they’ve collected over a few years in a single mason jar. Zero waste practices can save millions of pounds of waste from heading to landfills a year. The environmental benefits of a zero waste lifestyle are nicely complemented by each individual’s financial savings. Through strategic bulk buying, DIY recipes, and quality purchases, zero-wasters have found that less really is more.
The mason jar example is undoubtedly impressive, though far from the only way to participate in the zero waste movement, nor is it feasible for most people. Some companies have tried to save customers time and money by making their products zero waste in nature and with minimal packaging. Yet, consumer products will never be able to be completely zero waste unless the brand provides a container take-back program, only sells in bulk or is dedicated to using non-toxic ingredients. In a world obsessed with consumption and hooked on convenience, it remains almost impossible to be completely waste-free. The best way to join the zero waste beauty movement? One small step at a time.
Join the Movement
Go minimal. Start by assessing what beauty products you have, what you actually use, and what you truly need. Being mindful of your consumption and possessions is a fantastic jumping off point. Instead of going straight to a Marie Kondo approach, continue to use your products and simply make a note for what to resist purchasing next time. ‘Fewer products’ means less waste.
Attempt to DIY. Discover a zero waste blogger you respect and follow one of their DIY beauty recipes. This may seem scary at first but making your own products is actually simpler than you think. This will also help you to better understand what goes into the products you put on your skin daily.
Find a brand. Once you’ve run out of your old beauty products, do a bit of research on zero waste and natural beauty brands. Replace those makeup remover wipes with a liquid packaged in glass or find a local zero waste shop which sells lotion in bulk! There are myriad ways to invest in high quality, natural, and zero waste products– take some time to find what works for you.
Have patience. Adding zero waste practices into your beauty routine is truly a journey. There will most certainly be a period of trial and error before you find the recipes, routines, and retailers which are right for you. Don’t rush the process.
How to Spot Greenwashing
No matter what your zero waste beauty journey looks like, being a discerning consumer remains incredibly important. When purchasing from brands claiming to be zero waste, avoid vague wording or claims without any evidence. There’s unfortunately no simple guide to weeding out the greenwashers from the transparent beauty companies. Instead, focus your energy on brands which give detailed information on packaging, ingredients and supply chains. If a beauty business doesn’t provide specifics on their website, they may have something to hide. Transparency is key in this movement towards a healthier, less wasteful future for beauty.
Towards Zero Waste on Bytewrthy
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