3. Canva - Preserve Food

When it comes to zero-waste items, some cost more up front. But they pay for themselves pretty quickly. Certain foods at the bulk bins cost more — and others cost less. Make the best decision for you. As for zero-waste gear, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on reusable items. Use what you own first.

The following are just a few tips on zero-waste living.

 

Eat at home

Save money by brewing your coffee or tea at home and eating your meals there too. For the $40 you might spend in a restaurant for dinner for two, you can buy quite a bit of food at the farmers’ market. Dinner parties and potlucks also cost much less than meeting friends at a restaurant.

 

Preserve food

Have some perishable food you won’t be able to eat soon? Preserve it and enjoy it later—and save money. If you’ve caught the fermentation bug, ferment your extra vegetables and fruit. Or simply preserve food by freezing it in your freezer.

If you want to save more money, buy large amounts of food in season and ferment, can, dehydrate or freeze it. But only do this if you can commit to the time necessary to process your large crates of fresh food.

 

Produce food

If you have the space to grow your own food then do it. Grow lots of vegetables. Plant a few fruit trees, if you can. Consider a flock of happy egg laying chickens that live a hen house. Not only will you save on eggs but also supply your friends and family with them, as well.

 

Borrow stuff

Looking for entertainment? Hit the library. Libraries not only have book for free but also has a fantastic selection of DVDs.

Watching DVDs consumes less energy than streaming video does.