Zero Waste PDX

I'm always shocked at the amount of plastic used in grocery and retail stores. I've worked retail and clothes often come in a single plastic bag per item. Even things on the shelves that appear to be free of plastic packaging can come to the store wrapped in plastic and employees remove it before stocking the items. The sheer amount of waste is...

I bartend, and we use plastic wrap to cover the sugar/salt etc rim bowls at the end of every night. I had been advocating for a greener system for a while, and my manager finally came through with Pyrex containers with lids. I know it's a small change but that's less plastic used daily!

I reached out to my senator and representative at the Oregon legislature. I shared my concern for the amount of wasted packaging and the issue that plastic bags still available at produce and bulk food isles.

I slipped up today and purchased items I didn't need. When I was in Whole Foods, getting 100% recycled toilet paper, I saw their sustainably-made clothing was 40% off. I don't need new clothes but I couldn't pass up the chance at eco-friendly clothes. I haven't purchased any clothes in about a year, so I felt OK with my decision.

It is baffling that so much plastic is used for produce. I can see how it's beneficial in some instances, but now I'm seeing individually wrapped onions. That's insane! 

I grow a lot of produce at home and it is extremely rewarding. I have been exploring ways to preserve some of my garden items and recently made kimchi from the bok choy!

Today I wrote to my state representatives and the Oregon Department of Agriculture to ask them to change archaic laws that prohibit consumers efforts to reduce packaging waste by making bringing your own containers and bags unlawful. 

I've been going to the farmers market more to limit package waste. It's amazing how much plastic is avoided by doing this!

I continue to work on house bills supported by the OLCV by writing my representatives!

I've spent July attempting to make usual staples (like bread) and even cleaning/hygiene products (baking soda exfoliant) from scratch. So far, so well. Though the time commitment is real, I'm finding that it's been surprisingly enjoyable