Hello reader, welcome to RRR Bandwagon (what we humans should have been on for a long time). By now, you are already aware of how to reduce, reuse, and recycle household items like kitchen waste, plastic packets, cardboard, etc. If not, check out the first part of this blog HERE to get yourself ready. Today, at Vasana, we explore some common items that we use every day, but later end up in dumpyards in our cities through no fault of their own.
Shampoo, Conditioner, Toothpaste, and other skincare bottles
Our day begins and ends with items in this category, thus, the waste generated is immense. Recycling items in this category can significantly reduce waste.
How to reduce: Switch to plastic-free products like shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets or products with refillable packaging.
How to recycle: Always wash your skincare empties and then segregate them in a separate box, which can then be sent for recycling. Some skincare platforms like Sublime Liife offer rewards for returning their empty bottles, so do explore those options as well.
Old Clothes
The fast fashion lifestyle has made us forget the values of using fabrics that last longer. From old sarees to Tshirts, all were passed down to younger generations as a way to preserve, but now we have the convenience of simply tossing it out in the bin. Maybe it is time to switch back to our dadi and nani’s wisdom!
How to reuse: Donating clothes is a great way to ensure that they reach the people who need it the most. You can opt for home pickup or explore the local brands that might be running a donation drive. You can also create a DIY project by using old scraps to make fun party props like wall hangings and mats.
Nails
This is an item we rarely think about before discarding. Did you know that birds might mistake nails for rice kernels and may choke on them? This is a good enough reason to recycle them and contribute to coexisting more responsibly.
How to recycle: Nails are compostable. Yes, that’s right. Dig a small hole in a plant pot and simply bury your nails. The soil will do its magic and the birds will be relieved.
Water Used To Soak Dals and Pulses
Soaking our pulses, dals, and rice in water is a great way to save on gas and to stimulate easy cooking. However, if you end up discarding this water in the drain, there is a problem. This water is full of nutrients and can easily be reused.
How to reuse: Use this water to water your plants. They shall thrive on the nutrient-rich water while you benefit from the use of resources.
Personal Hygiene Products
Did you know that one sanitary pad can take up to 800 years to decompose? Is that the legacy we want to leave our daughters and their daughters with? It is high time we switch to personal hygiene products that not only make our lives easier but are also better for the environment.
How to reduce: Switch to sustainable products like menstrual cups, reusable cloth pads, and reusable diapers. In India, we have several brands like Papaya and SuperBottoms offering products of this category.
Sustainability isn’t about perfection, it’s about small, conscious choices made every day. Pick one habit today, and let that be your first step toward a cleaner and better tomorrow.