The earth is not my home, I’m just passing by”- Tom Waits

It’s our privilege to call our planet our home. But have we treated it the way we treat our humble abode?

Mindless consumption, endless consumerism, and unconscious conveniences have resulted in the beginning of the sixth mass extinction.

Brace yourselves. We have all started our journey to save ourselves. But have you ever felt alone on your zero waste lifestyle journey?

Are you the one who uses a compostable toothbrush and your family members still prefer single-use disposable options?

I know they prefer it because of those hard bristles. We also know that electric toothbrushes are more fun and convenient.

Starting these kinds of conversations about personal choices is hard but much easier than fixing the global climate change. At times, you will find yourself beating your head against the wall but it’s alright. Because the impact of a family of two or more going zero waste is much more than just a millennial rocking the boat.

“A family that generates low carbon footprint together, stays together”

Zero Waste Family

There is no one size fits all definition for a zero-waste family. Like every other family, a zero-waste family is unique in its own way. Their low carbon footprint distinguishes them from a traditional family. And they follow the same old proven 5-Rs mantra every day and their prayers are centered towards healing the planet.

“A zero-waste family is the appropriate evolution.”

Take one step at a time. A lifestyle change for the whole family can be daunting and overwhelming because the transition takes time, maybe a month or a year.

If you are planning to build your zero waste home right away, you can begin with the following basic strategy for your zero waste family:

• List the items you need and use daily. Inevitables like grooming essentials, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soaps, shampoos, earbuds, clothing, food supplies, water supply, housekeeping essentials, workspace, and transport methods.

• Study how your family generates daily, weekly and monthly trash through these listed items.

• Analyze it with 5-R s mantra Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Rot (Compost).

• Keep swapping traditional alternatives with zero waste alternatives available in your part of the world.

• Develop a culture of zero-waste lifestyle for your home such as a carbon budget, etc.

• And keep celebrating the carbon footprint you saved as a zero-waste family.

Wish you all the best for starting the most impactful journey of your lifetime!

(Jasmine is a social entrepreneur, Independent consultant, and blogger. She is on a lifelong mission to cultivate a zero-waste lifestyle. And to contribute to building pockets of circular economy in every part of the world. Her Instagram: @misszerowaste )

(The views expressed in the article are the author’s own. Let Me Breathe neither endorses nor is responsible for them.)