Hello lovelies! First, apologies for missing a post yesterday — life got in the way. I’m back and ready to continue our minimalism series. This week I’m tackling something small but meaningful: reducing waste.
I’ve never thought of myself as wasteful. I try to use up what I already have: finishing meals instead of ordering more, eating food I don’t love so it doesn’t go to waste, and avoiding buying things when cupboards and the freezer are already full. I believe in making space before bringing more home.
Still, I do create waste. Empty cans, bottles and other recyclables have sometimes ended up in the regular trash. My daughter has been reminding me to separate recycling into its own bag, and I kept answering, “We don’t have a recycling bin.” That’s changing now.
I want to do my part for the planet. I’m not an environmental expert, but after hearing so many reminders about why caring for the environment matters, I’m finally acting. Here are three practical ways I’m cutting waste:
1. Recycle consistently
I’m committing to sorting recyclables into a separate bag and dropping them off or placing them in the proper bin. It’s a small habit, but it relieves the guilt my daughter gives me and keeps usable materials out of landfill.
2. Grow a garden and compost
If you’ve been following this blog, you know my flower pots didn’t fare well last year. I still cringe when I pass my sad little pots with brown leaves and imagine neighbors judging me. That story changes this season. I’m planting again — this time with a plan. I’ll sow seeds meant to flourish, and I’ll set up a compost bin for food scraps and other perishable waste. The compost will feed a tiny backyard patch where tomatoes and green onions can thrive. It feels good to turn kitchen leftovers into soil that supports new life.
3. Shop second-hand
Thrifting is already part of my routine — I love it. Buying pre-loved items saves money and prevents perfectly good goods from needing replacement. Things I often find at thrift stores include:
- Kids’ clothes — children grow out of clothes so quickly that buying new all the time is wasteful. I choose items that are in excellent condition.
- My own clothing — I save a lot by shopping second-hand and only buy new when necessary.
- Kitchen items and photography props — after decluttering my kitchen, I avoid impulse purchases. If I do need something, I check thrift stores and second-hand sections first before buying new.
Reducing waste has made me feel more responsible and intentional. I’m excited for a flourishing garden this summer so I can share photos here — and prove last year was a fluke!
Next Tuesday I’ll write about stress and how I’m learning to let it go. Hope to see you then.