After a New Year’s resolution led to a zero-waste lifestyle, broadcaster Miriama Kamo is now sharing her personal tips for eco-friendly living.
Finish products
Don’t get suckered into spending hundreds on all-new eco-friendly products for your home to feel like you can “start” your journey. Chances are you’ll be creating more waste by doing so. Simply finish what you already have and, when those items run out, replace them with more eco-friendly options.
Find collections and subscriptions
Certain places, like central Auckland, have options like food-waste collections and toilet paper subscriptions to help you on your journey. Miriama recommends Kelmarna Gardens’ Soil Factory waste collection, as well as finding a subscription service, like Smartass, to deliver (ideally) locally sourced, sustainable bamboo toilet paper.
Embrace products that do good
Find products that do double duty when it comes to social good. One of Miriama’s favourites is Will & Able, which sells eco-friendly, vegan bathroom and cleaning products made by members of Aotearoa’s disabled community.
Shop second-hand
Shop second-hand where and whenever you can: furniture, clothing, homeware, gifts. Not only do you save some cash, but you save more items from winding up in landfill when there’s actually nothing wrong with them. Online marketplaces and Freecycle sites are a great place to start.
Ditch single-use plastic
Buy in glass rather than plastic. You can then repurpose jars and storage containers for use elsewhere in the house – eco-friendly and stylish!
