School of Zero waste & sustainability

Decide that you’re ready to make a difference. We're in it with you. Oddly enough nothing changes until you are ready to make a difference. I suggest to research, research, and research more. This leads us to step two. 

Figure out what single-use plastic products in your daily routine that you use and ask yourself these questions.  What are the items, Why are they packaged this way? What alternatives are out there?  Do I have other alternatives in my area?  

Consider the "5 Rs". Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rot – these are the 5 Rs that make up the basic rules of zero waste. Research more. Consider some of these options. Try refill stations. Try "buy once" products. Try unpackaged products. Try bulk. Try farmer's market!  

Did you know that if you change a handful of things you will save our planet from up to 5 pounds of single-use plastic waste each year, just by getting ready in the morning? Yes, it is true. 

Change out your plastic for compostable plastic or glass. Yes, there are several compostable plastic products on the market today. 

Adjust as you go. 

Did you know the state of Tennessee has a zero waste initiative? The Zero Waste Tennessee program is designed to help inform Tennesseans on how to make better choices and rethink the way we manage waste. TDEC and its partners encourage Tennesseans to focus on reducing their waste by being aware of where it comes from and where it is going, and to make responsible decisions along the way. 

Learn more:  Check out TN Zero Waste Resources. 

Tell your friends, family and anyone that will listen about changing out a few items to make a HUGE impact.