Zero-Waste Home Hacks: Reducing Household Waste One Step at a Time

Have you ever thought about how much trash you throw away every day? Zero-waste living is about creating as little waste as possible, so fewer things end up in landfills or polluting our planet. This matters because when we reduce waste, we help protect animals, nature, and even our own health, and we can save money, too. It’s a simple way to make a big difference for the planet, and it’s something anyone can do.

Reducing Food Waste

Food waste is a huge problem. In fact, about a third of all food in the world gets thrown away, which wastes the food itself as well as the resources that went into producing it. To cut back on food waste, start by planning your meals so you only buy what you need. Check your fridge and pantry before shopping to avoid buying things you already have. And don’t throw out your leftovers: Either eat them as is or find creative new uses for them. For example, last night’s rice can become today’s fried rice. When you waste less food, you can save money and help the environment.

Composting

When food scraps and yard waste end up in the trash, they’re sent to landfills, where they slowly break down, producing harmful gases. Composting is an easy way to recycle those scraps instead, keeping them out of the landfill. A compost pile or bin can turn fruit peels, veggie scraps, and even coffee grounds into healthy soil. If you have a garden, compost can help your plants grow better. If you don’t have a garden, you can still use compost on your lawn, or you could donate it to someone who has a garden. Composting is a simple habit that can make a big impact on how much trash you produce.

Water Conservation

Water is one of our most precious resources, but it’s easy to waste. You can save water by turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes. Taking shorter showers and fixing leaky faucets also helps. If you’re feeling ambitious, try collecting rainwater to water plants. Every drop counts and small changes like these add up. Saving water is better for the planet and can lower your water bill, too!

Eco-Friendly Cleaning

Many cleaning products are full of chemicals that can be bad for the environment. Buy products labeled “environmentally friendly” or “biodegradable,” or make your own cleaners instead. You can make natural cleaners using ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. They work just as well for wiping down counters or cleaning windows, and they’re safer for you and the environment.

Growing Your Own Food

Planting a garden is not only fun but also a great way to reduce waste. When you grow your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs, you won’t need to buy produce at the store, which is often wrapped in plastic. Store-bought fruits and vegetables also have to be transported hundreds or thousands of miles from the farm to the grocery store, which uses fossil fuels and creates pollution. Home-grown food also tastes better. Anyone can grow their own food at home: Even if you don’t have a yard, you can grow herbs or small vegetables or fruit plants in pots on a balcony or windowsill.

Lifestyle Changes

Going zero-waste isn’t just about what you do around the house. It’s about making mindful choices in your daily life. For example, you can carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag wherever you go to avoid using plastic ones. Say no to plastic straws: Use a metal or bamboo one instead. And borrow or thrift clothes instead of buying new. You might even want to set up a clothing swap with your friends, trading items you don’t like anymore to someone who will wear them. These changes may seem pretty small, but they create less waste over time.

Alex Capozzolo

Co-founder of Brotherly Love Real Estate, Alex Capozzolo, is recognized as a trusted real estate expert in the greater Philadelphia, PA market. Alex, and his partner Jon Sanborn, have been buying houses in Philly for eight-plus years. They’ve helped +100 families successfully sell their houses. Alex and Jon continue to be viewed as reliable resources in the real estate industry.