The 5 Rs: Eliminating Waste from Grocery Packaging

The first R, refuse, is arguably the most effective and important R when it comes to eliminating waste in your life.  

“Refuse” to create any unnecessary waste when you’re shopping by

• Bringing a reusable bag.

• Purchasing unpackaged produce.

• Buying in bulk using reusable containers.

If you can’t re-use it, REFUSE it! Try not to purchase packaged items if you don’t have a plan to reuse or recycle the packaging.

Tons of food waste, plastic waste, and other packaging waste is generated through over-shopping.

Make a list of exactly what you need and stick to it. 

Eat everything-make sure you can before it goes bad!

Don’t shop until you absolutely have to! Utilize all of the ingredients in your kitchen. 

Check this article out for meal planning tips.

If you buy in bulk using refillable containers or shop at these zero-waste businesses below, you don’t have to worry about how to re-use as many of the materials below!

• Zero-waste grocery businesses: 

  • Loop, Nude Foods Market, Simply Bulk Market

  • Vessel Reusable Mug Model at coffee shops

Plastic bag

• Use it for pet cleanup. Line cages, pick up dog poop, and clean out take out cat litter in re-used bags!

• Save bags to cover up outdoor plants when there’s a storm!

• Line your trash cans.

• Construct a DIY greenhouse! 

Cardboard

• Use it as a canvas for painting/drawing/collaging!

• Look up some DIY crafts online!

Glass Jars and Plastic Containers

• Clean out glass jars and use them as cups, storage for bulk, or for crafting!

Make sure you follow every preceding R before coming to this one.

Be sure you are recycling properly!

Choose products with recyclable packaging over those without recyclable packaging.

Take reused plastic bags to a site that recycles them!