My name is Lauren, a 23-year-old living in New York. For two years, I've produced zero waste—no trash, no landfill contributions. It's real, practical, and transformative.
I know the skepticism: hippie? Liar? Impossible? I'm none of those—just someone committed to sustainability after years of study and activism at New York University.
Contents My zero waste journey began three years ago during my sustainable development studies. I protested big oil, led environmental discussions, and was seen as the 'eco-warrior.' Yet, my habits contradicted my principles.
A classmate's daily plastic disposables—bag, container, bottle, cutlery—haunted me. They ended up in landfills, unrecyclable. Then, staring at my own plastic-wrapped fridge contents, reality hit: I was no different.
That moment sparked change. I ditched all plastics, learning to make toothpaste, cleaners, and more from online resources.
Bea Johnson's Zero Waste Home blog and book inspired me further. A California family of four does it—I, a single New Yorker, could too.
Transitioning from zero plastic to zero waste took over a year. I shopped with reusable bags and jars at bulk sections, bought second-hand clothes, ramped up homemade recipes, and decluttered—ditching extra kitchen tools, unworn jeans, and useless decor.
I got mindful: saying no to straws, bags, receipts. Questioning habits was hardest, but accepting my contradictions paved the way. Now, my life thrives.
Shopping lists curb impulse buys. Bulk foods skip packaging costs. Second-hand clothes are budget-friendly.
No packaged processed foods means more organic fruits, veggies, grains from bulk and farmers' markets—seasonal, affordable, and package-free. I even glean surplus produce.
Weekly one-stop shops cover food, homemade cleaners, and beauty. Less rush, no chemicals, minimal clutter—more time, less stress, better quality of life. Beyond no trash duty.
Start small with these proven swaps:
Switch to compostable bamboo toothbrushes.
Use reusable cotton cloths instead of paper towels.
Make natural shampoo at home.
Opt for washable makeup remover pads.
Choose solid soaps over bottled gels.
Store in glass jars, not plastic.
Carry a reusable water bottle.
Use menstrual cups.
Select safety razors.
I've left my sustainability role at the New York Department of Environmental Protection to launch The Simply Co., selling my handmade zero waste products.
This isn't for show—it's alignment with my convictions, proven over two years of real experience.
