Mediaplanet sat down with Kathryn Kellogg, zero waste influencer and author of “101 Ways to go Zero Waste” to learn her tips on leading a sustainable lifestyle.
What sparked your passion for a zero-waste lifestyle?
It might be surprising but I didn’t start going zero waste because I loved the planet: I suffered from a major hormonal imbalance in college which led to a lot of pain, doctor visits, full-blown cystic acne, mood swings and mental health issues. So, I started reducing my exposure to endocrine disruptors which are found in a lot of products we come into daily contact with. One of my favourite books on this topic is Estrogeneration which explores the link between synthetic estrogen with our bodies and nature.
It all clicked for me when I moved to California, that the changes I was making to my personal health weren’t only better for me, they were also better for the planet.
I started my blog goingzerowaste.com because I wanted people to know they could save money, be healthier, and be more ecofriendly. It seemed like a no-brainer, and I wanted to help people make this transition easy and fun.
What does zero waste or eco-friendly living mean to you?
To me, it’s just about wasting less and being a good steward of what I have.
Buy fewer items. Use that last drop of shampoo. Upcycle your glass salsa jar to store leftovers. Reuse that promotional cotton tote until the straps fall off and then stitch them back on. Invest in products that will last a lifetime. Focus on timeless things that bring you joy rather than trends. Shop second hand. Eat fewer animal products, more plants, and remember, it’s not about being perfect.
We need to hold corporations and legislators accountable to ensure safe access to clean air, clean drinking water, and a safe environment for everyone.
What are your top tips for getting started?
- I recommend that everyone start with the big four.
- Say no to straws. If you need straws or like them, try and opt for a reusable one. My personal favourite is glass.
- Ditch the plastic water bottles. Did you know tap water is more regulated than bottled water? If you don’t like the taste of you
- Ditch plastic water bottles. Did you know tap water is more regulated than bottled water? If you don’t like the taste of your water, invest in a filter, you will save so much money in the long run. I prefer an insulated water bottle that keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold.
- Bring your own bags to the store. If you tend to forget, get a couple that fold up real small and attach to your key ring so they’ll always be with you.
- Avoid coffee cups which are actually lined with plastic and unrecyclable in most places. The lids aren’t recyclable either. If you have your handy-dandy insulated water bottle on you, you can grab your coffee, or ask for it in a real
mug to stay.
