At the beginning of this year, we set out to explore simple and tangible changes we can all make when it comes to reducing waste around the home. So what about when we are out and about or heading away on holiday? Here are some simple ways in which you can help reduce your waste even when you are on the go!
Out & About
BYO containers & coffee cups - Bring Your Own Container (BYOC) is something we are a big fans of here at Foodprint. There are some really cool companies out there making great containers to take with you on the go. Ethically So stock Fressko Keep Cups and Flasks together with Earths Tribe & Meals in Steel’s stainless-steal sealable lunch boxes. GoodFor also stock a great range of reusable cups and containers.
Reusable utensils, straws & napkins are also something that creates much unneeded waste when we are on the go. Get yourself a reusable utensil pack to take with you and ditch the single use alternatives. Honey Wrap have a great selection as do Moana Road. If you want to keep it simple, a Spork is also a great option! Or hit up your local op-shop and find yourself a set.
Reusable libraries are also a great way to save on takeaway waste without such an upfront investment (or need to always remember your container!). Again Again offer a wide selection of containers that for a small deposit, you can borrow (just like a library book!) and return again to one of their vendor locations. Their handy app makes it easy to see when your containers are due back and even show you how much waste you have saved from going to landfill!
Water bottles may seem like a no brainer, but you would be surprised how easy it can be for this handy little companion to drop off your list as you are rushing out the door. Not only can this save on needing to buy bottles of plastic water on the go, but it can also save you money by eliminating this purchase need all together! Some great water bottle companies including Hydro Flask and Meals in Steel have some great stainless steel options that are both durable and keep your beverages at a stable temperature.
Produce Bags - In July this year, Aotearoa outlawed single-use plastic produce bags, with this change, alternative packaging offered (compostable and paper) is still avoidable. Get yourself a selection of produce bags to pack with your reusable grocery bags. You can get these from the likes of Eco Bags and Biome. Alternatively, you can place produce straight in the trolly and ditch the bags all together!
Carry Bags - while most of us have a good stash of shopping carry bags in the car, when you are wandering around, it is also an idea to have a small fold-away carry bag on you. You will be surprised how often you use it!
Reusable Zip Lock Bags - needing a spot to put some leftover food for later or maybe the reusable utensils you plan to wash once you get home? These silicon zip lock bags are a great on-the-go companion and the best bit is that they can be re-washed and reused over and over!
Beeswax wraps are also a great option for wrapping up leftovers on the go. Honey Wrap have a great selection and in a range of designs and sizes. Be sure to keep this out of the sun however, as the wax can melt onto surrounding surfaces if it gets too hot!
And finally, a small resealable compost container is a great thing to have on hand when you are out and about. Often if we are eating on the go there can be inedible items left over that are perfect for the compost (think apple cores or mandarin peels). Having a safe and sealed place to pop these is always a great idea. Even a simple resealable container or reusable ziplock bag can be a perfect option.
There are so many ways in which we can reduce our waste - even when we are on the go! Where you can refuse what you don’t need (think reusable cutlery), reduce what you do need (having one reusable container is enough!), reuse by having a good reusable kit on hand, recycle what you cannot refuse, reduce or reuse and where possible, compost (rot) everything else.
Happy waste-free travels everyone!
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