Zero Waste Marin encourages Marin County residents to start shopping smart to waste less. Adding smart eco-friendly alternatives to your cart can make a difference to the environment and your wallet.
Waste: disposable batteries. Smart: rechargeable batteries.
Single-use batteries contain heavy metals and corrosive materials, and improper disposal can spell bad news for the environment. Replace them with rechargeable batteries, which last longer on a single charge and can be used over and over.
Waste: disposable coffee cups. Smart: reusable thermos.
Most disposable coffee cups are not recyclable and an estimated 50 billion paper cups end up in landfills each year. Next time you purchase coffee on the go, bring a reusable coffee mug. Many coffee shops will fill reusable mugs and may even offer you a discount.
Waste: single use plastic water bottle. Smart: reusable water bottle.
Carry a reusable metal or glass water bottle instead of purchasing individual, disposable plastic water bottles. A reusable plastic bottle can be easily refilled and offers the added benefits of insulation, filtering, and more.
Waste: produce wrapped in plastic. Smart: reusable produce bag.
Most shelled produce does not need to be packaged in plastic wrap. Instead, buy reusable cotton or mesh produce bags and choose loose fruits and vegetables when shopping.
Waste: disposable plastic cutlery. Smart: metal silverware.
Whether you are hosting a party or packing a school lunch, choose reusable metal cutlery instead of disposable plastic. Recycling plastic cutlery is difficult and its waste will only end up landfills.
Waste: paper towels. Smart: cloth dish towels.
Swap paper towels for cloth towels both at home and in packed lunches. You can throw your dish towels into your washing machine and reuse them for years, saving money and reducing waste.
Waste: ice cream cup & spoon. Smart: ice cream cone.
Eating ice cream is a great way to cool off during the summer. To reduce your environmental impact, choose an edible ice cream cone instead of a cup and spoon.
Zero Waste Marin works with cities and towns throughout Marin County to educate residents about reducing the amount of waste that goes into our local landfills. For more information, visit ZeroWasteMarin.org.
