Remember to Rethink, Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Regift, and Recycle as you go through the week. Every small step helps contribute to a healthier planet! Small changes, big impact. Let’s do this together!

How to Achieve a Zero-Waste Week:

1. Refuse Single-Use Plastics and Embrace Reusables

Say no to plastic straws, bags, and bottles. Carry a reusable water bottle, coffee mug, and shopping bag. Bring your own containers for takeout or leftovers.

2. Get Creative with Meal Planning and Repurposing

Plan meals ahead to avoid overbuying food. Use leftovers creatively to reduce food waste. Compost food scraps instead of throwing them away.

3. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

Choose products with minimal or no packaging. Repurpose old items instead of discarding them. Follow local recycling guidelines to ensure proper disposal.

4. Start Composting

If you’re new to composting, start simple: just collect compostable scraps in a bucket for the week. This includes fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, and tea bags (avoid meat, dairy, and oily foods). Even if you don’t have anywhere to put it at the end of the week, simply observing your waste can help you decide if composting is a habit you or your family want to try long-term.

How to Set Up a Simple Compost Bucket at Home:

Choose a container – Use a lidded bucket, bin, or composting pail.

Add dry materials – Start with a layer of brown materials like shredded newspaper, dry leaves, or cardboard.

Add food scraps – Toss in fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells (avoid meat, dairy, and oily foods).

Mix regularly – Stir or shake the contents every few days to speed up decomposition.

Use the compost – Once broken down, mix it into garden soil or donate to a community compost program.

5. Shop Smarter

Buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste. Choose items made from recycled or sustainable materials. Support businesses that prioritize eco-friendly practices.

6. Other Simple Zero-Waste Tips

Go paperless. Prepare lunches at home. Spread the word to family, friends, and colleagues so you can all work together on making a difference.