Written by Tara McKenna
Creating your own zero waste kit is the perfect way to combat convenience-based waste throughout your day.
Are you grabbing a coffee? Bring your reusable coffee cup.
Thirsty? Carry a reusable water bottle.
Might grab some groceries on your way home? Pack a compact reusable bag for any shopping you might do during your day.
All of these reusables will help you go zero waste.
What's in a Kit?
What you need during your day will totally depend on your personal preferences. If you don't drink hot drinks like tea or coffee, then you won't need a reusable coffee or tea cup. Do what works for you!
Here are some reusables you can include in your zero waste kit:
Water bottle
Coffee / tea cup
Smoothie cup
Straw
Napkin
Handkerchief
Utensils
Food containers / jars
Shopping Bag(s)
Produce bag(s)
Plan for Your Day
Plan the day ahead by understanding what you'll be doing and where you will be going. This will help you determine what you need to include in your zero waste kit for the day to avoid waste where ever possible. Ask yourself some of these questions to help guide your planning for the day and pack your kit accordingly:
Am I grabbing a hot drink today? For here or to go? (remember that if you forget your reusable, you can stay in and have a drink in a mug)
Am I eating out? Will there be leftovers? Or should I pack lunch and snacks? This will help you determine if you need containers for takeout or for leftovers.
Will I have access to water refill stations?
Based on what I'm doing today, what do I really need to bring to avoid creating waste?
How much am I willing to carry with me today, and in what type of bag? A backpack? Tote bag? Purse? Briefcase?
Don't overburden yourself with carrying everything; only carry what you think you'll need. Carrying a few reusables will help you divert so much unnecessary single-use plastics and waste!
For more tips on going zero waste, read the book and head to zero waste 101!
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