What is Zero Waste Living?

Zero waste better manages our resources and eliminates waste. The choices we make in our life greatly impact the environment around us. From what we do in our homes, what we buy and where we live. It's about making different choices now in our lives that would greatly impact the future of our environment.

One of the easiest ways to manage a personal zero waste lifestyle is by buying products made from recycled (preferably post-consumer) materials. Here are a few links to get started:

• Preserve - their toothbrushes are not only made from recycled yogurt cups - you can also send them back to the company to make recycled plastic lumber!
• Seventh Generation - dozens of eco-friendly household products, including recycled paper towels and laundry detergent
• TreeCycle Office Supplies - post-consumer pulp for a paper-hungry workplace
• Recycled Product Cooperative -recycled office supplies, including durable pens made from recycled headlights!
• Thegreenoffice.com - another green office supplier
• Trader Joe's - this retailer of recycled toilet paper and paper towels also carries Preserve toothbrushes and a variety of reusable, recycled shopping bags

Zero Waste Living is just a start, but consider making every event, whether it be a large celebration or a simple gathering of friends a zero waste event. Here are some links for help or ideas.

• Green Mary - In charge of your communities' street fair or other large events? Consider having a zero waste event with help from Green Mary.

Additional Links

• CIWMB's site on companies that sell compostable products.
• Follow the 11 ways to cut your trash in half.
• Our guidelines for smart shopping.
• Our list of tips for reuse.
• Check out more tips at the City of Irvine's Environmental Programs page.