Ways to follow the zero waste movement in Australia
Zero waste is a great ideal. We can all make some changes in our everyday lives to reduce our waste. What resources and groups are there for zero waste in Australia?
This list is just some of the options. I wondered what is specifically available to support Aussies. So I did some digging through the web and found a few options.
Let's also realise this is not about perfection. A completely zero-waste lifestyle would be very difficult. It depends on financial budget, physical access and time. Do what you can.
Support an eco group
Communities are important for sustainability and zero waste as much as any cause. Connect with eco people to feel encouraged and create change together.
Greenpeace Australia
Is Greenpeace Australia the most obvious group for eco people? When I checked, Greenpeace had an accessible way to connect with the organisation through the web site. Have a look and see if you want to get involved. Read about waste reduction on their web site. I particularly like the heading, Stop Trashing Australia. I don't know a lot about Greenpeace. Now is a good time to learn more.
World Wildlife Fund
Get involved with the WWF. Yes, this group is known for supporting animals. They need help. Guess what. Animals live in the natural environments of this Earth when they can. It's all connected. This famous organisation is looking at waste related issues such as plastic pollution in the oceans. Donate to the WWF if you are willing and able.
Eco groups on Meetup
It's worth a look. I found a very small amount of search results in Meetup around this topic. If there are no eco groups on Meetup in your area, you could start your own group.
See the latest zero waste news
Get updated on the news from the world of zero waste living. Here are some eco news sites I found at a quick glance. See industry updates from sites such as the Zero Waste Network and the Media Archive from Zero Waste Australia. Are there other zero waste news outlets? I want to know about them.
Shop at your nearest zero waste and bulk stores
Look for sustainable products at a bulk store, co-op, eco shop or organics provider. Support the cause by choosing truly environmentally sustainable businesses when possible. Some products are more affordable than others. I am quick to acknowledge that. Some things are also more necessary or not. Focus on things you need.
Shop from a bulk store when you can. Image:
Get zero waste products delivered if you can't get to a store
There are so many ways to genuinely shop sustainably online if you can't reach a physical store. Biome and Flora & Fauna are the big brands of eco stores in Australia. I also found a brand called ZeroCo. They send household products in packaging that is reusable, refillable and returnable. Try to get products sent from the nearest possible location to hopefully reduce the footprint of shipping. This would involve selecting an online store that physically distributes products from a nearby hub.
Choose plastic-free local products at any shop when possible
If you can't get to an eco shop, at least look for plastic-free products that were produced nearby. Here are a few quick examples. Couscous is usually in a cardboard box. Also, at least the canned foods are free from plastic. Sometimes we are only able to choose the lesser of a few evils.
Attend zero waste events
Attend an event that will show support for the zero waste community. There is a Zero Waste Victoria Festival. It looks good for anyone who lives in or can travel to that state. There could be classes on how to make your own zero waste supplies. Some eco shops run events. See what is happening.
Continue learning and making changes
Very few individuals would be leading completely zero waste all the time. It is a lot to change, probably not overnight. There is always more that could be done. This planet needs our help. Any small change will make some difference.
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