Let’s Talk Trash (or Rather… Not Having Any!) — A Zero Waste Journey in Real Life
Okay, confession time: I get way too excited about compost bins. And if you've ever seen me stuff a half-eaten granola bar wrapper in my pocket instead of tossing it in the nearest trash can, no you didn’t. 😅
Going zero waste isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being intentional. It’s about choosing to tread a little lighter on this planet, one reusable coffee cup and compostable floss pick at a time. And hey, in a world where everything seems disposable (napkins, clothes, relationships??), I think that kind of commitment is pretty dang cool.
So if you’re curious about the zero waste life, or you’re just here to pick up a few tips, let’s dive in—no shame, just vibes. 💚
🌍 First Off: What Is Zero Waste, Really?
The goal of zero waste is simple: send as little as possible to the landfill. It means choosing reusable, refillable, recyclable, or compostable alternatives in your everyday life.
But it’s not about being perfect. You don’t need to fit a year’s worth of trash in a mason jar to make a difference. It’s about progress, not perfection.
♻️ Getting Started Without Losing Your Mind
If you’re thinking, “This sounds overwhelming,” don’t panic. The secret is: start small. Here’s what helped me:
1. Audit your trash.
Seriously. Look at what you’re throwing away most often. Is it food packaging? Paper towels? Plastic produce bags? That’s your roadmap.
2. Swap one thing at a time.
Reusable water bottle → Bye plastic!
Cloth napkins → Chic and waste-free.
Bar soap/shampoo → No bottle, no problem.
3. Say no to freebies.
Just because it’s free doesn’t mean you need that branded stress ball or plastic pen you’ll lose in two days.
🛍️ Moab-Friendly Zero Waste Swaps
Living (and loving) life in Moab? You’re in the perfect place to go low-impact. Here are some local and desert-friendly ways to cut the waste:
✧ Skip the plastic on-the-go
Bring your own utensil set, water bottle, and takeout container when eating at the food truck park or picnicking in Arches.
Pro tip: Moonflower Co-op carries tons of eco goods (reusables, bulk foods, natural deodorants that actually work).
✧ Shop secondhand + local
Hit up Moab Gear Trader or yard sales for used outdoor gear instead of buying new.
Support local artisans at Desert Sun Ceramics or local boutiques who often offer low-waste packaging or handmade goods.
✧ Ditch disposables on shoots
Photogs, I’m looking at you! Bring snacks in beeswax wraps, a washable lens cloth instead of wipes, and use rechargeable batteries when you can.
🥕 Food, Glorious (Waste-Free) Food
Shop in bulk when possible. Moonflower Co-op is your best bet in town.
Plan meals and actually eat your leftovers. Compost what’s left.
Bring a tote. Keep one in your car. Keep three. Totes are the new purse.
💡 My Favorite Random Tips
Etsy has compostable stickers if you run a biz and want eco branding.
That jar of sauce? Rinse it and turn it into a flower vase.
Refuse before you reduce. If you don’t need it, don’t take it.
Set up a mini compost system in your backyard or even with a local drop-off if available.
💬 Real Talk: You Don’t Have to Be a Hippie or a Hero
You just have to care. You can still love Target. You can still get takeout sometimes. You’re allowed to be messy, imperfect, and still making a difference.
Going zero waste (or even low-waste) is an act of love—for your future self, for your community, for the Earth we all get to call home.
🌵 Let’s Do It Together
Whether you're eloping in the desert, shopping for your first set of beeswax wraps, or just trying to remember your reusable bags, I’m cheering you on. 🌿
Let’s be the generation that shows it’s cool to care.