Somewhere along this journey it came to our attention that the house where we have been renting in Louisville, Colorado, has more space than we really need. In addition, it seems that the places and people we visit most frequently are centered around a part of Boulder which is ten miles from where we live. Top this off with our desire to save more money so that in the next four years we could put a down payment on a home that we can "green" to our hearts content and the solution seems like a no brainer.
At the end of May, we are moving out of our 1600 square foot, three bedroom, 2 bath, 2 living room house into a 600 square foot one bedroom, one bath, condo in Boulder. This not only puts us in biking distance to the majority of places we frequent including Melissa's job, the rent is less than 2/3s what we are currently paying. Did someone say down payment? We are very excited for all of the reasons previously mentioned and because ti comes with access to a community clubhouse and soon to be community garden.
For me, this is part of sustainable living. In the more popular model, everyone has everything they could ever need in their own home and they go to work for 40+ hours a week to pay for it and its upkeep. I like the model where Melissa and I have what we essentially need in our one bedroom condo and the things that are not essential are shared and spread out among the community such as the indoor pool, outdoor hot tub, exercise room, vegetable garden, office center with fax machine and scanner and a clubhouse with a kitchen, big screen TV, pool table, tennis and basket ball courts and a nice patio by the lake with BBQs and WiFi. Yep. It make much more sense to me to share these things at a bare fraction of the cost. Not to mention the eco footprint.
We also we this a an opportunity to experiment with downsizing. Just to paint a more detailed picture of what this means for Melissa, Xani (our feline little sister) and I in terms of space, imagine this: The bedroom will be my office/music studio where I give guitar lessons, the dinning room will be Melissa's office and the Living room will double as our bedroom thanks to a fold up futon couch. Talk about downsizing. Fortunately, the walk in closet is outside of the bedroom off the hall way so Melissa wont need to interrupt my lessons to change clothes. My closet, the smaller one, is off the dining room which gives me more wall space in my studio as there is no closet in there. I like it! The space distribution seems like it was intelligently designed for our needs. That is sustainable.
In my experience, moving can create a lot of unnecessary waste. Our intention is to make the move in the most eco friendly, non wasteful manner and share our discoveries in this blog.
So far, I have been selling our unnecessary, unwanted and unused possessions on craigslist. This Saturday we will hopefully sell the rest of it at our moving sale. We will let you know how the rest goes.
Robb
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Energy Conservation
Going Unplugged
I just began reading the book "Deep Economy" by Bill McKibben. In it, he mentions the impact of all our cable modems constantly running. I don't know about you, but I don't surf the web in my sleep. At least I hope not. Starting tonight, we will be turning off and unplugging our modem before we go to sleep.
I don't think I mentioned it
in our previous blogs, but apparently, as long as appliances are plugged in, they are sucking power, even when they are turned off. Our solution to this situation is to unplug an appliance when we are not using it, like the toaster oven. As you can see, it is pretty easy to plug it back in when we need to.
As for outlets that are hard to
reach, like the ones behind the bed, we are using power strips with on/off switches. Melissa's reading light is one example: when she wants to turn it on or off, she hits the switch on the power strip that is plugged in under the bed. It is amazing how many things are plugged in, sucking energy, that we rarely use, such as lamps in the downstairs area. Now, those lights remained unplugged until we need them when we simply plug them back in.
Power strips are also good for situations where
there are many plugs as is the case with entertainment centers. The picture to the right shows, our DVD player, VCR, Amplifier and TV are all plugged into one power strip which is turned off when we are not using any of the fore mentioned electronics. In my office it's pretty simple; since I already have most of my computer, monitor and electronics hooked up to a surge protector. This surge protector does not have an on/off switch, so I just unplug it when I leave the office for more than, say, a half hour.
All this took about two weeks to get used to. Besides installing the CFLs, this may have something to do with our low electricity bills.
I hope this entry is helpful to all of you out there on your journey toward zero waste.
Thanks for being part of the solution,
Robb and Melissa
I just began reading the book "Deep Economy" by Bill McKibben. In it, he mentions the impact of all our cable modems constantly running. I don't know about you, but I don't surf the web in my sleep. At least I hope not. Starting tonight, we will be turning off and unplugging our modem before we go to sleep.
I don't think I mentioned it
in our previous blogs, but apparently, as long as appliances are plugged in, they are sucking power, even when they are turned off. Our solution to this situation is to unplug an appliance when we are not using it, like the toaster oven. As you can see, it is pretty easy to plug it back in when we need to.As for outlets that are hard to
reach, like the ones behind the bed, we are using power strips with on/off switches. Melissa's reading light is one example: when she wants to turn it on or off, she hits the switch on the power strip that is plugged in under the bed. It is amazing how many things are plugged in, sucking energy, that we rarely use, such as lamps in the downstairs area. Now, those lights remained unplugged until we need them when we simply plug them back in. Power strips are also good for situations where
there are many plugs as is the case with entertainment centers. The picture to the right shows, our DVD player, VCR, Amplifier and TV are all plugged into one power strip which is turned off when we are not using any of the fore mentioned electronics. In my office it's pretty simple; since I already have most of my computer, monitor and electronics hooked up to a surge protector. This surge protector does not have an on/off switch, so I just unplug it when I leave the office for more than, say, a half hour.All this took about two weeks to get used to. Besides installing the CFLs, this may have something to do with our low electricity bills.
I hope this entry is helpful to all of you out there on your journey toward zero waste.
Thanks for being part of the solution,
Robb and Melissa
Saturday, April 18, 2009
The Next 30 Days
As you will notice from the date, it has been a couple of weeks since our last entry on this journey. For me, Robb, the first 90 days was the important period to log. However, since changing decades of habits is not a quick fix, the journey doesn't end after 90 days. As "Our 90 Day JTZW" was our first blog, we are still finding how blogging fits into our lives, always with the intention of cultivating sustainability and therefore, balance. Up to this point, our process has largely been one of journal entries and playing catch up to get them in the blog. It appears that we are finally at the point where we can make our entries as we go.
Thanks for with it,
Melissa and Robb
3/29/09
Conscious Consumerism
Melissa went to Aveda Salon to have her hair colored - Aveda uses up to 90% plant-derived dyes and practices animal and environmental conscious practices as well as encourages holistic health for employees - signs near the restrooms encourage employees to do yoga, to seek balance in their lives with their relationships, etc.
Aveda uses compostable cups for water from Eco Products out of Boulder, CO. Plastic lining is made from plants not oil and the cup has stats on consumers making a difference in gas use and ounds of green house gases when consumers use their products.
3/30/09
Education
We went to hear John Perkins, the author of "Confessions of an Economic Hitman," speak at at Regis University, Colorado. We highly recommend this book. While being a harsh eye opener, it is actually a pretty fast read. Fascinating!
4/1/09
Conscious Consumerism
Purchased endangered species chocolate and emailed them the following letter:
Dear Endangered Species Chocolate,
Thank you for being a conscious company. I am writing to tell you that I intentionally purchase your chocolate rather than your competitors because you engage in the following practices:
1. Endangered Species Chocolate buys naturally shade-grown chocolate, supporting farming techniques that do NOT require the cutting of trees or clearing of land.
2. Endangered Species Chocolate purchases chocolate in a 100% ethical manner---farmers are treated well and receive a fair price for their cocoa.
3. Endangered Species Chocolate donates 10% of their net profits to support species, habitat, and humanity.
4. Endangered Species Chocolate educates and encourages positive social participation---ES educates the consumer about endangered species and their habitat; encourages action (with specific things that are easy to do and are effective) to protect endangered species; educates the consumer on sustainable living practices such as reusing the wrapper and how to compost yard waste; and encourages the individual to give back to community.
5. Endangered Species Chocolate uses packaging that is recyclable.
In addition to these wonderful practices that match my values, you make delicious chocolate.
Thank you. You have a loyal customer who hopes you continue to support endangered species--both animal and human--on an ecologically sustainable, socially just, and peaceful planet.
Peace,
Karen Melissa Vuto Stronglove
Boulder, Colorado
4/3/09
Conscious Consumerism
Melissa takes CU-Boulder students to see Milk.
Buys running shoes - first looking into environmental and labor practices, chose Brooks b/c it is a great running shoe and practices such as:
* Recently introduced HPR Green, a silica-based, petroleum-free sole used in the Adrenaline ASR 4 and Cascadia 2 that reduces the amount of petroleum used in production by more than one pound for every 10 pairs
* Works with FLA's collegiate-licensing program
* Relies on production techniques that eliminate waste by 50 percent
Used this website to help with quick research:
http://www.greenguideinstitute.org/doc/122/athleticshoes/3
A guide to recycling running shoes:
http://www.runtheplanet.com/shoes/selection/recycle.asp
Other site I found:
http://www.bridgingthegap.org/egap.php?id=214
4/4/09
Volunteering
Worked on construction of a home with Habitat for Humanity in North Boulder
Grocery shopped - Melissa had to choose between packaging for organic butternut squash from California or fresh organic butternut squash from Mexico - we need to garden and grow our own produce!
4/7/09
Conscious Consumerism
Melissa wrote a letter to GT Dave's Kombucha company b/c they switched to plastic caps from metal caps. They replied that it is a temporary solution they are seeking to re-do. Robert made phone calls for junk mail activism.
4/8/09
Conscious Consumerism
Melissa and Robert wrote Turley's thanking them for using local and organic produce, plus compostable take out bags and take out flatware.
4/9/09
Conscious Consumerism
Melissa wrote Now and Zen asking for compostable pudding cups or at the least *recycleable* plastic pudding cups.
4/10/09
Junk mail
Robert emailed Money Mailer to remove our address from their list. On the back of the envelope, at the very bottom, in fine black print there are directions for removing your address. Go to www.moneymailer.com/contact.
Thanks for with it,
Melissa and Robb
3/29/09
Conscious Consumerism
Melissa went to Aveda Salon to have her hair colored - Aveda uses up to 90% plant-derived dyes and practices animal and environmental conscious practices as well as encourages holistic health for employees - signs near the restrooms encourage employees to do yoga, to seek balance in their lives with their relationships, etc.
Aveda uses compostable cups for water from Eco Products out of Boulder, CO. Plastic lining is made from plants not oil and the cup has stats on consumers making a difference in gas use and ounds of green house gases when consumers use their products.
3/30/09
Education
We went to hear John Perkins, the author of "Confessions of an Economic Hitman," speak at at Regis University, Colorado. We highly recommend this book. While being a harsh eye opener, it is actually a pretty fast read. Fascinating!
4/1/09
Conscious Consumerism
Purchased endangered species chocolate and emailed them the following letter:
Dear Endangered Species Chocolate,
Thank you for being a conscious company. I am writing to tell you that I intentionally purchase your chocolate rather than your competitors because you engage in the following practices:
1. Endangered Species Chocolate buys naturally shade-grown chocolate, supporting farming techniques that do NOT require the cutting of trees or clearing of land.
2. Endangered Species Chocolate purchases chocolate in a 100% ethical manner---farmers are treated well and receive a fair price for their cocoa.
3. Endangered Species Chocolate donates 10% of their net profits to support species, habitat, and humanity.
4. Endangered Species Chocolate educates and encourages positive social participation---ES educates the consumer about endangered species and their habitat; encourages action (with specific things that are easy to do and are effective) to protect endangered species; educates the consumer on sustainable living practices such as reusing the wrapper and how to compost yard waste; and encourages the individual to give back to community.
5. Endangered Species Chocolate uses packaging that is recyclable.
In addition to these wonderful practices that match my values, you make delicious chocolate.
Thank you. You have a loyal customer who hopes you continue to support endangered species--both animal and human--on an ecologically sustainable, socially just, and peaceful planet.
Peace,
Karen Melissa Vuto Stronglove
Boulder, Colorado
4/3/09
Conscious Consumerism
Melissa takes CU-Boulder students to see Milk.
Buys running shoes - first looking into environmental and labor practices, chose Brooks b/c it is a great running shoe and practices such as:
* Recently introduced HPR Green, a silica-based, petroleum-free sole used in the Adrenaline ASR 4 and Cascadia 2 that reduces the amount of petroleum used in production by more than one pound for every 10 pairs
* Works with FLA's collegiate-licensing program
* Relies on production techniques that eliminate waste by 50 percent
Used this website to help with quick research:
http://www.greenguideinstitute.org/doc/122/athleticshoes/3
A guide to recycling running shoes:
http://www.runtheplanet.com/shoes/selection/recycle.asp
Other site I found:
http://www.bridgingthegap.org/egap.php?id=214
4/4/09
Volunteering
Worked on construction of a home with Habitat for Humanity in North Boulder
Grocery shopped - Melissa had to choose between packaging for organic butternut squash from California or fresh organic butternut squash from Mexico - we need to garden and grow our own produce!
4/7/09
Conscious Consumerism
Melissa wrote a letter to GT Dave's Kombucha company b/c they switched to plastic caps from metal caps. They replied that it is a temporary solution they are seeking to re-do. Robert made phone calls for junk mail activism.
4/8/09
Conscious Consumerism
Melissa and Robert wrote Turley's thanking them for using local and organic produce, plus compostable take out bags and take out flatware.
4/9/09
Conscious Consumerism
Melissa wrote Now and Zen asking for compostable pudding cups or at the least *recycleable* plastic pudding cups.
4/10/09
Junk mail
Robert emailed Money Mailer to remove our address from their list. On the back of the envelope, at the very bottom, in fine black print there are directions for removing your address. Go to www.moneymailer.com/contact.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
The First 90 Days
On November 11, 2008; we decided to begin our journey toward living a zero waste life. Though we are well aware that it may be impossible to actually live a life free of waste here in the USA, we still are called to do the best we can. Like in beginning archers, hitting a bullseye may be impossible, but we will never come anywhere near the target if we don't aim and shoot.
This blog is a journal like account. The intent behind creating such a log is in hopes that others who choose to make this journey, will feel encouraged by our example. Know that a simple printed guide is in the making which will assemble the results of this journey into an organized and categorized easy to use format. Journey well!
11/11/08
The Decision
Today Melissa and Robert decided to create a zero waste life, beginning at home.
Bathroom/Shower
We placed a bucket in the shower to catch the water that comes off our bodies and pours out of the lower faucet before and after we turn on the shower. The bucket sits under the lower faucet and therefore, over the drain, causing extra water to collect in the tub. We are reusing a one pint take- out container from Whole Foods for scooping this additional water and pouring it into the bucket. At this point we are almost filling a two gallon bucket with the extra water.
Bathroom/Toilet
We started to follow the motto, “ If it’s yellow let it mellow, (don’t flush). If it’s brown, flush it down.” When the yellow accumulates, we pour the bucket of water into the toilet and this flushes the yellow (not always completely, but usually enough). We probably flush yellow twice a day; once with the bucket in the morning after showering and maybe again in the early or late evening. Also, if it begins t smell, we flush. Click on the sign to make it bigger.
Shaving:
Robert places a Tupperware container in the sink, fills it with hot water to rinse out his blade and to soak a wash cloth (used to damp and warm his face). When he is done shaving he pours the water into the bucket in the shower that holds the water we use to flush the toilet. This also keeps the sink from accumulating facial hair.
Melissa shaves in the shower and turns the water off when she shaves. She wets the blade before turning the water off and rinses off the leftover shaving gel when she is done.
Compost
We began researching various types of under-the-counter compost containers via the web. We also researched how to waste less in our daily home activities. Meanwhile, we are storing the compost in the freezer in a large Tupperware container (before determining how we wish to store our compost in the kitchen).
11/16/08
Action and Volunteering
We attended the "Awakening the Dreamer/Changing the Dream Symposium" which has as its purpose: “to create a more environmentally sustainable, socially just and spiritually fulfilling human presence on the planet.” Very sobering and inspiring. We are considering taking the training to become facilitators for this symposium.
Conscious Consumption
Bought the Better World Shopping Guide (BWSG) at the Symposium. We bought this so that we can better vote with our dollars by supporting companies that align with our values, avoiding companies that do not.
11/18/08
Conscious Consumption
Read the top “10 Things You Can Do“ in the BWSG (see above) to start making a difference. We made a chart to hang in the Kitchen to remind us as we begin using it. Researched cars, gasoline and set goals for composting. We are researching how we can change our credit cards, our energy use via switching to wind power with Xcel, and our cell phone service (Melissa has supported Credo/Working Assets over the years but she uses AT&T [hisssssss] as her cell carrier. We will switch to Credo's Family Plan.)
Journal Entry:
It has been only one week and this zero waste consciousness has already shown up in Robert's dreams. He is seeing waste everywhere from the Q-tip he uses to the Lara Bar wrapper that is not recyclable or compostable. It’s landfill. Goes into the Earth. That sucks. No more Lara Bars.
We feel so much more awake and aware of our relationship with our environment. It feels right; like we've begun living healthier and more responsible lives. We are very happy about this!
Wondering, what do we do with kleenex, Q-tips and that plastic film that covers yogurt containers? For now, we are saving them in a soy milk carton along with and food wrappers. We haven’t put anything in the trash for days.
11/19/08
Personal Items: Kleenex/tissue paper
Robert bought 6 handkerchiefs for $6 at Ross and put the remaining Kleenex in the bathroom for guests to use until they run out. No more kleenex for Robert. Melissa tried using handkerchiefs and they do not work for her for all situations. She will use recycled tissue paper and handkerchiefs.
Conscious Consumption; Gas:
Found the highest ranking local gas station, 7-11 (believe it or not) and researched Sinclaire and Shamrock online. Couldn’t find enough to make a decision on them in terms of ranking. There are higher ranking stations in the BWSG but those stations are not available to us where we live in Colorado.
Shopping Zero Waste
Shopped in the bulk section using empty yogurt containers instead of plastic bags. They’re light, they stack easily and we can write the bin numbers on them. When we return home everything is transferred to reused glass jars. We then rinse out the containers and put them back in our reusable bags which sit by the door (so that we remember to put them in the car).
11/22/08
Phone Service & credit cards
Put out request to local Yahoo Group and received good feedback on Working Assets credit cards and Credo cell service. It appears Credo uses Sprint.
Laundry
Hanging it out to dry using a laundry rack instead of the drier.
Compost
Found a sealed container in the garage for storing compost. Using a small bucket to transport compost from the kitchen to the garage where we keep it in a 30 gallon bin. It’s Winter, so it doesn’t smell too much.
Zero Waste
Made a list of landfill items to find alternatives for, reuse or a take to a hard-to-recycle source.
12/3-7/08
Action and Volunteering
Began the training to be Awakening the Dreamer/Changing the Dream Facilitators in Boulder, Colorado.
12/12/08
Getting Informed
Started reading “Green Collar Economy” by Van Jones
Junk Mail
Signed up on line to stop junk mail. Also signed a petition.
Signed up on Do Not Call List.
Action
Began Zero Waste and Conscious Consumer discussion on a Ning site. Sent out emails for “Activism.”
12/13/08
Weatherizing
We insulated the windows in Melissa’s room and the AC in our bedroom using a plastic film from Lowe’s. The rooms definitely felt warmer when we finished!
Throw away Alternatives
Donated items to a local community center thrift store, Sister Carmen’s.
Transportation
Started using Melissa’s Honda as our primary vehicle since it gets better MPG than Robert's 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan Mini Van. The van is better for carpooling.
12/19/08
Weatherizing
Had the door from the house to the garage replaced with a door with a tighter seal.
Packaging
Now, whenever we go to buy something, we look at the packaging to see if it is reusable, compostable or recyclable. Usually we can find something. Robert stopped buying crackers. Too much waste with all that plastic.
12/28/08
Junk mail
Noticed today that we haven’t seen much junk mail coming to the house for about a week - about 95% less.
We called the companies that are still sending us paper mail, requesting they stop.
Melissa set up the most recent on-line financial account that now offers paperless updates and statements.
Bathroom
Installed a low flow shower head with a shut off valve. Bought at Lowe’s for about $5. Now the bucket only fills up about 20% and there is very little water in the tub left to scoop.
Weatherize
Insulated two of the living room windows with that film.
Energy
Installed seven 13 watt Compact Fluorescent LIghtbulbs (CFL) by Energy Star throughout the house.
In the bathroom we replaced three of the eight 40 watt bulbs with 13 watt CFLs and unscrewed the remaining five. There is plenty of light with 39 watts vs 320 watts. No wonder our energy bill went down!
Recycling
Found Eco-cycle website with a lot of good information and resources. Downloaded and printed out the recycling guides from our local Eco-cycle for curbside and hard-to-recycle items and posted it near our recycling bin.
Holidays
We didn't send out paper Christmas cards or buy wrapping paper. Used old yet clean magazines, newspaper or plastic bags to wrap gifts and sent eCards through Care2 - they donate $ to earth-focused non-profits for every card sent. Website: http://www.care2.com/ecards/
1/1/09
Throw away alternatives
Happy New Year! Let's waste less in 2009!!! We set an intention to save all our trash for one year. We are hoping that new opportunities for recycling and reusing will become available this year so less trash goes into a landfill. Maybe we will make an art project out of our trash and sell it at a fundraiser?
Composting
Researched prices for under the counter composting bin. They averaged $30 new. We found an old crock-pot we weren’t using; it fits under the counter and works well.
Cat Waste: Litter and Composting
Researched alternatives.
1/2/09
Zero Waste on-the-go: Backpacks
Along with our water bottles, travel mugs, handkerchiefs and BWSG we started carrying the following items:
* Washcloth (in ziplock bag) to replace paper towels in public restrooms
* Reused plastic bag for misc trash
* Tupperware container for take out leftovers.
1/3/09
Backpacks
Added:
Collapsable 6 cup Rubbermaid containers ($5 each at Albertsons). We can also eat out of them and keep our knife-sporks (single utensil with multiple purposes) and cloth napkin inside.
Cat litter
Started using sawdust from local mill. Cost? Free! Reusing an old litter bucket to store the waste I remove daily.
Robert started building a composter from scrap wood he found on the side of the house
Throw away alternative
Robert sold and donated old books to local used book store. Received $12.50
Composting: Compost Bin
Researched how to build and found inexpensive solutions.
1/4/09
Cat Waste
Made a designated cat waste compost bin by drilling holes in a 13 gallon trash can partially filled with sawdust and dried leaves from Autumn. Placed it on bricks. (I later traded it out for the 32 gallon can you see here. Read on.)
1/5/09
Composting:
Picked up 32 gallon trash can for $14 from Lowe's to make Home compost bin.
1/6/09
Composting:
Robert made a designated Home compost bin by drilling holes in the 32 gallon trash can with sawdust and Autumn leaves. Raised it on bricks.
1/9/9
Shopping
Melissa asks the person at the register to recycle the receipt.
Melissa bought a used eco-bag (net) for veggies (alternative to plastic bags). This purchase benefits a local community center, my wallet and the earth!
1/13/09
Compost
Bought two separate pitched forks for turning kitchen compost and kitty compost.
1/15/09
Junk Mail
Called Comcast, Aerogrow, and Sierra Club to ask them to stop sending junk mail. (Often takes one mailing to stop)
1/16/09
Junk mail
Without our request or permission, a Denver Newspaper in a plastic bag was delivered to our home the other day. Robert will call them on Tuesday and ask them to stop sending it. We have gone through this before. Newspapers run a promotion and start dropping their product in our driveway. Said another way: a company wants our business so, without permission, they start throwing trash in our driveway. Okay, this pushes some of our buttons.
1/18/09
Social Gatherings/Church/Workshops
At a Quaker meeting we received name tags (the adhesive paper kind). Made a note and now we carry, in our trusty backpacks, the plastic-pin-on name tag from our facilitator training. No more waste with name tags.
Throw-Away Alternatives
Started using one of those containers that whole-cooked chickens come in to hold small non-recyclable items for future creativity or Reduce Reuse Recycle (RRR) technological breakthroughs. Examples: used Borders gift card, plastic tops from almond mild containers. Thought: if it doesn’t have food on it, keep it for a creative project or future RRR technological breakthrough.
1/23/09
Creating Local Business
In an effort to create more local business , thereby reducing the carbon impact of Robert's business, Robert went out into the local community to shake hands, meet people and let them know about his business as a local guitar teacher. What a friendly and supportive response he received!
Zero Waste
Robb bought a battery charger and rechargeable batteries. He am saving the plastic from the packaging for AOFR (Art or Future Recycling)
2/1/09
Compost
After using the 33 gallon container for a couple of weeks we have decided to get a 50 gallon container that lays flat as it will be easier to turn the compost and hold more. Two should do the job. Bought one for $16 today at Big Lots.
Refuse, Reduce, Reuse and Recycle (RRRR)
Created a RRRR center in the garage reusing old Drywall Mud containers, small flat boxes and yogurt containers to store hard-to-recycle and reusable items. Hardly takes up any space.
Kitchen
Started using compostable sponges.
2/8/09
Compost
Set up the 50 gallon container to be our food compost. Switched from the 13 gallon to the 33 gallon for Kitty Waste compost. Much easier to turn the compost in a larger, flatter container.
Shopping
Cutting down on packaging: Had the person in the cheese department cut a 3/4 lb block of cheese, wrap it in paper and put it in one of our yogurt containers. The paper is compostable. Zero waste (well, except for the sticker with the price that we handed to the person at the check-out)!
Refilled a spice container in the bulk spice section.
2/11/09
Energy
Checked out CFLs at Lowe's. They have a large selection for comparatively good prices. All the types we need. Soft white, regular 13 wt (60) mini 13 wt (60), candelabra (60)3-way (50/100/150), 9 wt(40), (25), (100) (75) and dimmable!
We bought two 3-ways, two mini 13 wts, 4 dimmable 13 wts, ten 25 wt and three dimmable 25 wts.
Our energy bill this month was about $30 less than last month. That paid for last months lightbulbs.
A pleasant conclusion to our 90 day journey.
This blog is a journal like account. The intent behind creating such a log is in hopes that others who choose to make this journey, will feel encouraged by our example. Know that a simple printed guide is in the making which will assemble the results of this journey into an organized and categorized easy to use format. Journey well!
11/11/08
The Decision
Today Melissa and Robert decided to create a zero waste life, beginning at home.
Bathroom/Shower
We placed a bucket in the shower to catch the water that comes off our bodies and pours out of the lower faucet before and after we turn on the shower. The bucket sits under the lower faucet and therefore, over the drain, causing extra water to collect in the tub. We are reusing a one pint take- out container from Whole Foods for scooping this additional water and pouring it into the bucket. At this point we are almost filling a two gallon bucket with the extra water.
Bathroom/Toilet
We started to follow the motto, “ If it’s yellow let it mellow, (don’t flush). If it’s brown, flush it down.” When the yellow accumulates, we pour the bucket of water into the toilet and this flushes the yellow (not always completely, but usually enough). We probably flush yellow twice a day; once with the bucket in the morning after showering and maybe again in the early or late evening. Also, if it begins t smell, we flush. Click on the sign to make it bigger.
Shaving:
Robert places a Tupperware container in the sink, fills it with hot water to rinse out his blade and to soak a wash cloth (used to damp and warm his face). When he is done shaving he pours the water into the bucket in the shower that holds the water we use to flush the toilet. This also keeps the sink from accumulating facial hair.
Melissa shaves in the shower and turns the water off when she shaves. She wets the blade before turning the water off and rinses off the leftover shaving gel when she is done.
Compost
We began researching various types of under-the-counter compost containers via the web. We also researched how to waste less in our daily home activities. Meanwhile, we are storing the compost in the freezer in a large Tupperware container (before determining how we wish to store our compost in the kitchen).
11/16/08
Action and Volunteering
We attended the "Awakening the Dreamer/Changing the Dream Symposium" which has as its purpose: “to create a more environmentally sustainable, socially just and spiritually fulfilling human presence on the planet.” Very sobering and inspiring. We are considering taking the training to become facilitators for this symposium.
Conscious Consumption
Bought the Better World Shopping Guide (BWSG) at the Symposium. We bought this so that we can better vote with our dollars by supporting companies that align with our values, avoiding companies that do not.
11/18/08
Conscious Consumption
Read the top “10 Things You Can Do“ in the BWSG (see above) to start making a difference. We made a chart to hang in the Kitchen to remind us as we begin using it. Researched cars, gasoline and set goals for composting. We are researching how we can change our credit cards, our energy use via switching to wind power with Xcel, and our cell phone service (Melissa has supported Credo/Working Assets over the years but she uses AT&T [hisssssss] as her cell carrier. We will switch to Credo's Family Plan.)
Journal Entry:
It has been only one week and this zero waste consciousness has already shown up in Robert's dreams. He is seeing waste everywhere from the Q-tip he uses to the Lara Bar wrapper that is not recyclable or compostable. It’s landfill. Goes into the Earth. That sucks. No more Lara Bars.
We feel so much more awake and aware of our relationship with our environment. It feels right; like we've begun living healthier and more responsible lives. We are very happy about this!
Wondering, what do we do with kleenex, Q-tips and that plastic film that covers yogurt containers? For now, we are saving them in a soy milk carton along with and food wrappers. We haven’t put anything in the trash for days.
11/19/08
Personal Items: Kleenex/tissue paper
Robert bought 6 handkerchiefs for $6 at Ross and put the remaining Kleenex in the bathroom for guests to use until they run out. No more kleenex for Robert. Melissa tried using handkerchiefs and they do not work for her for all situations. She will use recycled tissue paper and handkerchiefs.
Conscious Consumption; Gas:
Found the highest ranking local gas station, 7-11 (believe it or not) and researched Sinclaire and Shamrock online. Couldn’t find enough to make a decision on them in terms of ranking. There are higher ranking stations in the BWSG but those stations are not available to us where we live in Colorado.
Shopping Zero Waste
Shopped in the bulk section using empty yogurt containers instead of plastic bags. They’re light, they stack easily and we can write the bin numbers on them. When we return home everything is transferred to reused glass jars. We then rinse out the containers and put them back in our reusable bags which sit by the door (so that we remember to put them in the car).
11/22/08
Phone Service & credit cards
Put out request to local Yahoo Group and received good feedback on Working Assets credit cards and Credo cell service. It appears Credo uses Sprint.
Laundry
Hanging it out to dry using a laundry rack instead of the drier.
Compost
Found a sealed container in the garage for storing compost. Using a small bucket to transport compost from the kitchen to the garage where we keep it in a 30 gallon bin. It’s Winter, so it doesn’t smell too much.
Zero Waste
Made a list of landfill items to find alternatives for, reuse or a take to a hard-to-recycle source.
12/3-7/08
Action and Volunteering
Began the training to be Awakening the Dreamer/Changing the Dream Facilitators in Boulder, Colorado.
12/12/08
Getting Informed
Started reading “Green Collar Economy” by Van Jones
Junk Mail
Signed up on line to stop junk mail. Also signed a petition.
Signed up on Do Not Call List.
Action
Began Zero Waste and Conscious Consumer discussion on a Ning site. Sent out emails for “Activism.”
12/13/08
Weatherizing
We insulated the windows in Melissa’s room and the AC in our bedroom using a plastic film from Lowe’s. The rooms definitely felt warmer when we finished!
Throw away Alternatives
Donated items to a local community center thrift store, Sister Carmen’s.
Transportation
Started using Melissa’s Honda as our primary vehicle since it gets better MPG than Robert's 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan Mini Van. The van is better for carpooling.
12/19/08
Weatherizing
Had the door from the house to the garage replaced with a door with a tighter seal.
Packaging
Now, whenever we go to buy something, we look at the packaging to see if it is reusable, compostable or recyclable. Usually we can find something. Robert stopped buying crackers. Too much waste with all that plastic.
12/28/08
Junk mail
Noticed today that we haven’t seen much junk mail coming to the house for about a week - about 95% less.
We called the companies that are still sending us paper mail, requesting they stop.
Melissa set up the most recent on-line financial account that now offers paperless updates and statements.
Bathroom
Installed a low flow shower head with a shut off valve. Bought at Lowe’s for about $5. Now the bucket only fills up about 20% and there is very little water in the tub left to scoop.
Weatherize
Insulated two of the living room windows with that film.
Energy
Installed seven 13 watt Compact Fluorescent LIghtbulbs (CFL) by Energy Star throughout the house.
In the bathroom we replaced three of the eight 40 watt bulbs with 13 watt CFLs and unscrewed the remaining five. There is plenty of light with 39 watts vs 320 watts. No wonder our energy bill went down!
Recycling
Found Eco-cycle website with a lot of good information and resources. Downloaded and printed out the recycling guides from our local Eco-cycle for curbside and hard-to-recycle items and posted it near our recycling bin.
Holidays
We didn't send out paper Christmas cards or buy wrapping paper. Used old yet clean magazines, newspaper or plastic bags to wrap gifts and sent eCards through Care2 - they donate $ to earth-focused non-profits for every card sent. Website: http://www.care2.com/ecards/
1/1/09
Throw away alternatives
Happy New Year! Let's waste less in 2009!!! We set an intention to save all our trash for one year. We are hoping that new opportunities for recycling and reusing will become available this year so less trash goes into a landfill. Maybe we will make an art project out of our trash and sell it at a fundraiser?
Composting
Researched prices for under the counter composting bin. They averaged $30 new. We found an old crock-pot we weren’t using; it fits under the counter and works well.
Cat Waste: Litter and Composting
Researched alternatives.
1/2/09
Zero Waste on-the-go: Backpacks
Along with our water bottles, travel mugs, handkerchiefs and BWSG we started carrying the following items:
* Washcloth (in ziplock bag) to replace paper towels in public restrooms
* Reused plastic bag for misc trash
* Tupperware container for take out leftovers.
1/3/09
Backpacks
Added:
Collapsable 6 cup Rubbermaid containers ($5 each at Albertsons). We can also eat out of them and keep our knife-sporks (single utensil with multiple purposes) and cloth napkin inside.
Cat litter
Started using sawdust from local mill. Cost? Free! Reusing an old litter bucket to store the waste I remove daily.
Robert started building a composter from scrap wood he found on the side of the house
Throw away alternative
Robert sold and donated old books to local used book store. Received $12.50
Composting: Compost Bin
Researched how to build and found inexpensive solutions.
1/4/09
Cat Waste
Made a designated cat waste compost bin by drilling holes in a 13 gallon trash can partially filled with sawdust and dried leaves from Autumn. Placed it on bricks. (I later traded it out for the 32 gallon can you see here. Read on.)
1/5/09
Composting:
Picked up 32 gallon trash can for $14 from Lowe's to make Home compost bin.
1/6/09
Composting:
Robert made a designated Home compost bin by drilling holes in the 32 gallon trash can with sawdust and Autumn leaves. Raised it on bricks.
1/9/9
Shopping
Melissa asks the person at the register to recycle the receipt.
Melissa bought a used eco-bag (net) for veggies (alternative to plastic bags). This purchase benefits a local community center, my wallet and the earth!
1/13/09
Compost
Bought two separate pitched forks for turning kitchen compost and kitty compost.
1/15/09
Junk Mail
Called Comcast, Aerogrow, and Sierra Club to ask them to stop sending junk mail. (Often takes one mailing to stop)
1/16/09
Junk mail
Without our request or permission, a Denver Newspaper in a plastic bag was delivered to our home the other day. Robert will call them on Tuesday and ask them to stop sending it. We have gone through this before. Newspapers run a promotion and start dropping their product in our driveway. Said another way: a company wants our business so, without permission, they start throwing trash in our driveway. Okay, this pushes some of our buttons.
1/18/09
Social Gatherings/Church/Workshops
At a Quaker meeting we received name tags (the adhesive paper kind). Made a note and now we carry, in our trusty backpacks, the plastic-pin-on name tag from our facilitator training. No more waste with name tags.
Throw-Away Alternatives
Started using one of those containers that whole-cooked chickens come in to hold small non-recyclable items for future creativity or Reduce Reuse Recycle (RRR) technological breakthroughs. Examples: used Borders gift card, plastic tops from almond mild containers. Thought: if it doesn’t have food on it, keep it for a creative project or future RRR technological breakthrough.
1/23/09
Creating Local Business
In an effort to create more local business , thereby reducing the carbon impact of Robert's business, Robert went out into the local community to shake hands, meet people and let them know about his business as a local guitar teacher. What a friendly and supportive response he received!
Zero Waste
Robb bought a battery charger and rechargeable batteries. He am saving the plastic from the packaging for AOFR (Art or Future Recycling)
2/1/09
Compost
After using the 33 gallon container for a couple of weeks we have decided to get a 50 gallon container that lays flat as it will be easier to turn the compost and hold more. Two should do the job. Bought one for $16 today at Big Lots.
Refuse, Reduce, Reuse and Recycle (RRRR)
Created a RRRR center in the garage reusing old Drywall Mud containers, small flat boxes and yogurt containers to store hard-to-recycle and reusable items. Hardly takes up any space.
Kitchen
Started using compostable sponges.
2/8/09
Compost
Set up the 50 gallon container to be our food compost. Switched from the 13 gallon to the 33 gallon for Kitty Waste compost. Much easier to turn the compost in a larger, flatter container.
Shopping
Cutting down on packaging: Had the person in the cheese department cut a 3/4 lb block of cheese, wrap it in paper and put it in one of our yogurt containers. The paper is compostable. Zero waste (well, except for the sticker with the price that we handed to the person at the check-out)!
Refilled a spice container in the bulk spice section.
2/11/09
Energy
Checked out CFLs at Lowe's. They have a large selection for comparatively good prices. All the types we need. Soft white, regular 13 wt (60) mini 13 wt (60), candelabra (60)3-way (50/100/150), 9 wt(40), (25), (100) (75) and dimmable!
We bought two 3-ways, two mini 13 wts, 4 dimmable 13 wts, ten 25 wt and three dimmable 25 wts.
Our energy bill this month was about $30 less than last month. That paid for last months lightbulbs.
A pleasant conclusion to our 90 day journey.
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