Tips for a smaller waste
GEELONG- BASED sustainability expert Pippa Buxton says small, gradual changes are the key to living a low-waste lifestyle.
The owner of Little Earth Nest, East Geelong, believes families can reduce their waste output with a few simple steps.
“Many people find the term ‘plastic free’ quite overwhelming — it sounds so cold turkey and final. The journey to plastic free is really a gradual set of simple changes,” she said.
“Adopting a low waste lifestyle starts with the simple and instant embrace of the attitude that it’s worth a try to cut back on waste and especially on plastics.”
Ms Buxton suggests focusing on reducing your singleuse waste by stocking up on reusable produce bags, cling wrap and food storage options.
Ensure that shopping bags are either biodegradable or made from recycled sources, and use re-usable water bottles and a ‘keep cup’ for coffee or tea. Glass jars can be stylish, and environmentally friendly storage solutions.
“Anyone can make a difference to their waste in under an hour by setting up a framework to avoid reliance on plastics,” Ms Buxton said.
Little Earth Nest also has an online store selling a wide range of natural, organic and environmentally friendly products for families.
“I’m passionate about connecting Aussie families with sustainable products that make reduced waste achievable, easy and affordable,” Ms Buxton said.
At its website Ms Buxton, a mother, midwife and organic gardener, also blogs about a range of subjects including pregnancy, lifestyle and house.
“I’ve been working for over a decade to fuel a positive shift and a can-do attitude about low-waste living. I’m a very busy working mum of three young children and if I can do it, anyone can do it,” she said.
“My focus is to empower families with the confidence that it is easy to live low waste and to be responsible with the waste that they do create.”