According to the World Bank, the 2 billion tonnes of waste that is currently being generated each year is set to increase by over 70% to 3.4 billion tonnes within the next 20 years. Worse still, at least a third of waste is disposed of in an environmentally unsafe way!

Whichever way you look at it, waste is a big problem. But hopefully, there are solutions. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 15 waste disposal problems and solutions that could improve our environment.

Waste is a growing problem

Since the latter half of the 20th century, the rate and volume of waste generation have been accelerating. Factors that include economic growth and expanding consumerism, along with urbanization, migration, and smaller and more fragmented households have led to waste generation of at least 2 billion metric tons each year.

The immense quantities of waste that need to be processed require countries to develop expansive infrastructures for waste processing and disposal, which are often beyond the resources of less economically developed nations. Even economically advanced nations are struggling to implement strategies that would lead to adequate recycling levels and more innovative landfill management.

Key sources and types of waste

The types and sources of waste are diverse, adding to the challenge of finding effective waste processing solutions. Waste is generated by every area of a functional society including:

• Residential households
• The commercial sector
• The agricultural sector
• Industry
• Construction
• Social institutions like schools, prisons, and hospitals

The waste generated can be divided into four major groups:

Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)

This is the everyday waste generated in residences and by commercial and institutional activity. Major components of MSW include food waste, plastic, paper, metal, glass, and rags. MSW may also include industrial waste from construction and hazardous waste like discarded batteries or medicine.

Industrial Waste 

Industrial Solid Waste is determined by the industrial activity that generates the waste. Materials in industrial waste include demolition waste, packaging, oils, sludges, abrasives, wood, plastic, glass, and solvents. Industrial waste can vary in its hazardousness and environmental toxicity.

Agricultural Waste 

The agricultural sector generates significant amounts of non-hazardous and hazardous waste, which has increased with the expansion of this sector. Waste sources include livestock waste, crop residues, and various by-products of agricultural production and food processing.

Agricultural waste includes liquid and slurry waste that can become a significant environmental pollutant if it is not properly managed.

Hazardous Waste

Hazardous waste is generated by sources that include construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. There are hundreds of thousands of toxic chemicals in mainstream use with thousands of novel substances added each year. Hazardous waste requires the most stringent standards of storage and disposal to prevent harm to human health and the environment.

Waste disposal is an urgent issue

The acceleration of global waste generation makes waste disposal an issue that cannot be ignored. As income levels increase, so does the per capita waste volume. By 2050 high-income countries are expected to have a 19% increase in the volume of waste they generate, but low and middle-income countries are projected to generate 40% more waste as their economies advance.

This is because waste generation has a greater increase for incremental increases in income in poorer countries compared to their wealthier counterparts. The largest proportion of the world’s waste (23%) is generated by East Asia and Pacific region countries, with Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia on a course to triple their total waste generation by 2050.

Environmental impacts of waste are mounting

Waste, in its various forms, is a leading environmental pollutant and is negatively impacting human health. One of the biggest environmental issues is the open dumping of unprocessed waste, a primary form of MSW disposal in many poorer nations. Often where waste is not dumped it is inadequately burned leading to a deterioration in air quality. Here are the main types of pollution caused by waste:

• Land pollution: Land is not only affected by the physical presence of rotting waste but also substances that leach into the soil, contaminating it. If hazardous substances or agricultural waste are improperly disposed of, they can cause long-term pollution that makes the land unfit for habitation or cultivation.

• Water pollution: Run-off from agricultural slurry and other wastes can contaminate surface bodies of water like rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. This leads to problems like eutrophication and plant or wildlife die-offs.
  
  Groundwater contamination from effluents or chemicals contaminates drinking water, endangering human health. And seas and oceans are affected by the 5.25 trillion macro and micro pieces of waste plastic they currently contain.

• Air pollution: Up to 1 billion metric tons (41%) of waste are burned worldwide, with open burning of MSW being a significant contributor. Waste burning and the decomposition of landfill and dumped waste releases greenhouse gases and notable air pollutants like methane, nitrogen oxide, and sulfur dioxide.

Without intervention, waste becomes a major public health issue with significant loss of habitats and ecosystems. The environmental degradation caused by waste is also a driver of macroeconomic and geopolitical instability as reduced land and resource availability fuels migration and war.

Current waste treatment and disposal methods are not sustainable

Modern waste management methods are limited in their ability to deal with a burgeoning waste mountain that is constantly increasing in size. In most societies, the options for municipal waste management are limited to:

1. Recycling
2. Compositing
3. Incineration
4. Landfill
5. Chemical and biological treatments

The unsustainable growth in waste, driven by global demographic changes and consumption means that these mature methods of waste treatment and disposal used in most developed nations are already being exhausted by the volumes of waste produced.

For developing countries the hurdle to developing a sustainable waste management infrastructure is even higher, competing with other necessities like clean water and energy provision. However, neglect of waste management will prove to be costly to society, as these tragic cases demonstrate:

• The Quezon City landslide (2000): The collapse of a garbage dump in Quezon City in the Philippines led to a major landslide that killed up to 1000 people and destroyed hundreds of homes.

• Major flooding in Accra, Ghana (2015):  Plastic waste blocking drains on the streets of Accra, was a major contributor to a catastrophic flood that killed 150 people.

• Pneumonic/bubonic plague-like outbreak in Surat, India (1994): Over 5000 residents became ill and 53 people died in Surat, India, because of uncollected waste becoming a breeding ground for disease vectors.

We need to do waste differently

The international community is taking a new approach to waste disposal. The perspective on waste is slowly changing from how to deal with waste after it has been discarded, to how to prevent waste from being generated in the first place. In addition, stakeholders hope that waste can be transformed into a managed resource, that could be beneficial to society.

15 waste disposal problems and solutions

Finding novel solutions to the waste disposal problem requires a shift in thinking about waste. Processing and using waste as a resource coupled with an economic model that favors repair, recycling, and reuse might just bring the runaway waste problem under control. Here are 14 waste disposal problems and solutions:

1. Combat waste plastic by building plastic roads

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, almost 36 million tons of plastic waste are generated each year, with only 5% of this amount being recycled. Plastic is a pernicious problem that has a long-lasting harmful environmental impact. 

But now several companies are offering a revolutionary solution that will not only repurpose large amounts of waste plastic but also improve road quality. Enterprising companies are using waste plastic to create a sustainable alternative to the bitumen that is routinely used for road surfacing.

Plastic road surfaces are smooth, long-lasting, and even recyclable at the end of their lifespans. Local plastic waste can be used to make local roads! These roads and car parks have already been successfully installed in New York City. Plastic road company McRebur hopes that their roads are the start of a plastic economy that can be rolled out across the world.

2. Use black soldier fly larvae to combat agricultural waste

When it comes to agricultural waste, the black soldier fly may be the sector’s secret weapon! According to sustainable poultry consultancy, The Big Book Project, black soldier fly larvae are a nutritional powerhouse for poultry, and it thrives on organic agricultural waste. 

The black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens), is a fly species that is found across Africa, Europe, and Australasia. Its larvae are prolific feeders of food and animal waste, including manure. Not only do the larvae grow into a protein-rich food source for poultry, but they also turn the waste into valuable compost, free of obnoxious odor.

The University of Florida found that 45,000 of these maggots can digest over 24 kg of swine manure within two weeks. Black Soldier Fly larvae are already being adopted in countries like Kenya, with studies underway for large-scale production in the U.S. and Europe.

3. Cut down on waste glass by building with it

Though it is relatively easy to recycle glass, waste glass from demolition in the construction sector often heads straight to the landfill joining the 7.6 million tons of glass that end up there each year. Dots needs to be joined up on end-of-life building glass to save on the tens of millions of tonnes of primary raw materials and energy for producing new glass.

New initiatives for the reuse of end-of-life façade glass are changing things. Building contractors can ensure that waste glass is used as the following new building materials:

• Cullet – a form of crushed waste glass that can be used as an aggregate
• Glassphalt – a novel, durable road-surfacing material
• Composite glass worktops, tiles, and splashbacks
• Glass beads
• Spun or foam glass insulation

Proactive use of waste glass in construction has the potential to create a closed loop with glass being recycled and repurposed indefinitely. Governments can support construction companies in recycling waste glass by removing onerous waste management regulations that may make it easier for contractors to dump glass.

4. Reduce unnecessary packaging through Zero Waste stores

Bags, bottle wrappers, jars, and lids are a seemingly inexhaustible source of non-recycled waste. 95% of the 51 million tons of packaging discarded by Americans in 2021 went straight to landfill.

Little is being done to persuade manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers to reduce packaging, but the Zero Waste grassroots movement is gaining traction in the war on packaging and single-use plastics and helping engaged citizens jettison them altogether.

Zero Waste started as a lifestyle movement on the West Coast of America but has since gone global with Zero Waste stores opening up in towns and cities across the world. These stores offer a novel retail experience as you have to bring your bottles and containers to fill up on goods you dispense from a bulk supply.

Zero Waste stores currently have a strong millennial appeal with stores offering self-serve quantities of pantry staples, cleaning products, toiletries, and beverages. Customers only pay for the weight of products they take, saving money on purchasing large standardized packages in conventional grocery stores.

Prefer shopping on the Internet? Check out our round-up review of the best online zero-waste stores.

5. Cut municipal solid waste by turning waste into energy

Waste is increasingly being viewed as a potential energy source and alternative to finite fossil fuel resources. A ton of MSW can contain as much as 550 kWh of energy that can be used to heat and power homes and businesses. The primary method of energy recovery from waste is incineration.

The United States has 75 facilities that combust waste for energy recovery. This waste processing strategy forms a key part of the long-term management of waste, decreasing the volume of MSW that heads to the landfill and transforming waste into a renewable energy source.

Confined and controlled burning of waste is considered a better option than landfill disposal and waste incineration facilities use a range of technologies to treat exhaust air so that pollutants are minimized. In urban environments or regions (Japan, Sweden) where landfill availability is limited, MSW combustion facilities are much more common.

6. Reuse human waste by converting it to biogas

An enterprising US wastewater company has transformed human waste into a valuable energy source that is fueling municipal vehicles, including garbage trucks. Since 2016, the Persigo Wastewater Treatment Plant of Colorado Grand Junction has been processing millions of gallons of the city’s human waste into a renewable natural gas (RNG) called biomethane.

The biogas is generated from sewage through the activity of anaerobic bacteria. These organisms feed on the waste, transforming it into methane-rich biogas that can fuel vehicles or generate electricity. The multimillion-dollar project pipes the generated RNG from the sewage treatment works to the city fleet’s fuelling station, where it is sold to the city at a profit.

Biogas projects like this are also underway in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Norway. Smaller-scale biogas setups using animals have been used in Southeast Asia and Africa for heating and cooking.

7. Cut down on discarded items via “reduce, re-use, recycle”

Tackling waste generation at the source requires a new approach to how products are manufactured and used. Mass-produced products which have a short life span and cannot be easily repaired end up in landfill and require new resources and energy for manufacturing replacements.

Governments are keen to encourage the adoption of a circular economy that promotes the 3 Rs of waste management – reuse, recycling, and refurbishment of items so that the production and disposal of items are greatly reduced. The promotion of a circular economy, where the longevity and repurposing of products and materials are maximized may also provide new jobs and business opportunities.

8. Reduce landfill environmental impact via sanitary landfill management

Municipal authorities are being encouraged to explore more innovative approaches to landfill use that are sanitary and minimize disturbance of the immediate environment. Sanitary landfills can be trench, area, or ramp landfills that are deliberately designed to maximize the compaction of waste and minimize leaching and gas emissions.

Sanitary landfills harness the consolidation, compaction, and decomposition of waste under pressure to minimize the amount of space used by the landfill. The volume of waste is reduced by adding layers of earth that minimize exposure of the landfill waste to air which accelerates degradation and release of harmful gasses.

Sanitary landfill sites are carefully selected with detailed soil, geological and hydrological assessments. A liner and drainage system prevents leachate from the landfill from penetrating the ground. Sanitary landfills are also smart, integrating Internet of Things technology to monitor leachate composition and gas emissions.

9. Mitigate solid waste generation by waste diversion

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is actively addressing the problem of the high volume of municipal solid waste by implementing waste diversion strategies. Waste (or landfill) diversion encompasses any techniques, policies, or technologies that divert waste generated by the Agency from landfills, including:

• Source reduction (a reduction in the volume, mass, and toxicity or waste generated)
• Compositing
• Recycling
• Reuse
• Incineration

Once waste diversion strategies have been implemented, the success of the strategies is measured by landfill size, with the expectation that landfill size will not increase significantly, over the long term.

The EPA has had some success with waste diversion, with the waste diversion rate increasing from 47.3% in 2008 to over 70% by 2021. The EPA also found that waste diversion reduced the costs of waste disposal and eased pressure on existing landfills.

10. Eliminate discarded cigarette butts by recycling them instead

They are easy to overlook, but cigarettes are a common source of street litter that simply ends up in a landfill. The cellulose acetate fiber that makes the butts biodegrades slowly, taking up to a decade to completely break down. The wide dispersal of discarded cigarette butts leads to trillions of them polluting rivers, streams, and oceans each year.

Over the last 20 years, efforts have been made to encourage smokers to put used cigarette butts in dedicated bins, but they are not routinely recycled. However, specialist recycling companies like Terracycle have developed facilities that can recycle cigarette butts, with financial support from Tobacco companies.

Cigarette butt recycling involves a thorough cleaning of the butt’s cellulose acetate material, which is then melted and extruded into pellets. The pellets can be mixed with other plastics for manufacturing new products like gutters, pipes, plastic fencing, and window frames.

11. Turn newspaper waste into NewspaperWood

In 2013, Dutch designer Mieke Meijer developed a novel and unique material called NewspaperWood from recycled newspapers. NewspaperWood takes discarded newspapers and glues them into a laminated material that has the appearance and grain of natural wood when it is cut. NewspaperWood is also 100% recyclable when used and can be pulped to produce other paper.

This cleverly reverse-engineered material can be cut, sanded, and milled for use in projects that would use other types of wood. Though this material is not currently mass-produced, it makes a great upcycled addition to a range of interior design and construction projects including use as fire-resistant roof tiles.

12. Tackle pollution with plastic-eating bacteria

One of the big problems of MSW is the large proportion of plastic that simply does not degrade. However, a remarkable discovery by Japanese scientists of bacteria that can break down plastic could be a game-changer for tackling the world’s plastic problem. 

A special bacteria, Ideonella sakaiensis, was discovered in sludge near a bottle recycling facility in Osaka. The bacteria were able to break down the chemical bonds in PET plastic, the type milk bottles are made from.

Though the rate of plastic breakdown by these bacteria is slow, scientists are studying this organism to see if its enzymes can be extracted and used on an industrial scale to digest the surplus waste plastic that easily pollutes the environment. This would require genetic engineering and may take many years to realize.

13. Use carbon engineering to mitigate carbon dioxide emissions from waste

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) makes up just 0.03% of the atmosphere. This gas is essential to life because of its use by plants in photosynthesis to create food. However, in recent times there have been concerns that this dense gas may have an insulating effect that promotes global warming, leading to efforts to reduce the amount of CO₂ that is generated by human activity.

Decomposing waste releases CO₂ and other carbon-rich gases like methane as it is degraded by bacteria. Strategies that reduce this carbon release include the introduction of technology that can capture and fix atmospheric carbon for use as a novel energy source.

This nascent technology, known as carbon engineering sucks CO₂ out of the air and sublimes it with water and other materials for long-term storage deep underground. So far, this carbon capture plan has not been realized, but it could offer mankind control over gas emissions in the future.

14. Clean up nuclear waste with fungal nuclear remediation

Nuclear waste is one of the most hazardous forms of waste and is capable of prolonged environmental contamination with serious implications for human and animal health. The dangers of radioactive waste mean that its disposal is difficult, with high transportation and storage costs.

Scientists have found a remarkable solution to cleaning radioactive waste in the form of mushroom species that can clean up this dangerous form of contamination. After the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident in 2011, mushrooms were planted to reduce the levels of radioactive contamination of the surrounding land.

The mushrooms hyper-accumulate radiation from the surrounding environment in their tissues. The resultant radioactive fungi can then be harvested and incinerated, with the radioactive ash carefully stored in much smaller quantities than other nuclear waste.

15. Cut down on discarded electronics via precious metal recovery

Electronic waste is a pressing waste problem as over 50 million tons of spent electronics are thrown in the trash worldwide every year. Less than 20% of the PCs, laptops, phones, and tablets that are discarded will be recycled. And the quantities are climbing, with levels of discarded electronics exceeding 74 million tons by the end of the decade.

Electronic waste is a big issue for several reasons. Not only is it often hazardous, requiring specialist disposal, but it also leads to the loss of large quantities of precious and rare earth metals that are simply discarded when a computer or phone reaches the end of its lifespan.

A broken mobile phone may not look like it is carrying gold and silver, but these rare and unique metals are essential for the precision functioning of electronic and radio frequency connectors within devices.

Several companies are now paying attention to the vast quantities of precious metals that could be recovered from electronics. Canadian company Excir has partnered with England’s Royal Mint to recover gold, silver, and platinum from old electronic equipment using proprietary methods and technologies.

This clean tech company aims to recover gold and silver from circuit boards using methods that include chemical leaching, pulverization, and smelting.

These methods were also successfully used to recover gold, silver, and bronze for the medals of the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.

In conclusion

It’s clear that there are many solutions that can impact the world’s waste problem. Over time, source reduction, waste diversion, inventive recovery, and repurposing of materials can gain traction in reducing solid waste levels. 

However, for lasting reductions in waste generation, significant changes in the nature and patterns of consumption may be necessary. While it is still profitable for businesses to use excessive packaging or to manufacture low-quality, short-lifespan goods that can’t be easily repaired, the landfills will continue to get larger. 

Poorer countries need to be supported in developing waste management and sanitation infrastructure that can reduce or eliminate the polluting effects of waste. Targeted investment in projects like waste incineration plants or recycling technology can improve quality of life for local populations and give their economies the momentum they need to grow.

However, what this entails exactly, and how to achieve it, can be a little more elusive.

What exactly is ‘zero waste’?

According to the Zero Waste International Alliance, zero waste is:

“The conservation of all resources by means of responsible production, consumption, reuse, and recovery of products, packaging, and materials without burning and with no discharges to land, water, or air that threaten the environment or human health.”

– Zero Waste International Alliance

As you can see, this involves wide-scale changes that go far beyond how we treat our trash.

However, this doesn’t mean that we as individuals don’t have a role to play. Quite the contrary: moving to a zero-waste lifestyle on an individual level is an essential part of pushing society toward the so-called “cradle to cradle” production model. This is a big departure from our current cradle to grave model, where society largely operates within extraction-production-consumption-disposal.

This shift is not only massive, but it is an essential one for all of us, as well as the planet we live on.

Why is zero waste important?

Our modern system of consumption is one that doesn’t pay too much attention to the waste it creates. Under this system, goods and products are produced as quickly and cheaply as possible to meet consumer demand, and then thrown away once we’ve finished using them.

Most of this waste ends up in landfill. EPA figures show that in 2017, US households sent a total of 292.4 million tons of municipal solid waste to landfill, or 4.48 pounds of trash per person per day.

This was an increase of 7% since 2010. The proportion of plastic waste also increased, being 18.4% of all trash in 2018 compared to 13.2% in 2017

Plastic waste, in particular, takes hundreds of years to break down. A plastic toothpaste tube, for example, will take up to 700 years to degrade. As the nearly eight billion people on the earth continue to produce more plastic and other non-biodegradable waste, this continues to pile up, choking already-full landfills that then have to expand and take over natural environments.

Like our other natural resources, space on land is finite, and as landfill expands, this takes away habitats, destroying ecosystems and threatening plant and animal species.

What doesn’t make its way to landfill pollutes our natural environments, whether on land, in our waterways, or the oceans, threatening their ecosystems. Around 8 million metric tons of plastic wash into the ocean every minute.

This waste is hugely unsustainable not only because of the impact it has on the earth’s precious land and water resources, but also because of the resources it uses. Plastic and other non-biodegradable waste is generally made from petroleum and its by-products.

Petroleum is a non-renewable resource that is made from fossil fuels. If we keep using petrol at our current rate of consumption, the earth’s stocks will be depleted by around 2067, according to the oil industry.

How do you live a zero waste lifestyle?

From an individual perspective, achieving a zero waste lifestyle has three main aspects:

• Reconsidering what you buy and how often you buy it
• Buying zero-waste products
• Reusing materials that would otherwise become waste

This has also been popularly summarized as the five R’s:

1. Refuse
2. Reduce
3. Reuse
4. Recycle
5. Rot (compost/biodegrade)

Essentially, to live a sustainable and zero-waste lifestyle you should apply one of these five approaches to everything you buy or consume.

How to apply the Five R’s

It’s important to note that under the concept of the five R’s, these steps are hierarchical. That is, you should always try to follow the steps at the top of the list first, and if this is not possible move on to the next one on the list. The steps are as follows:

Let’s take a practical example of a product that we all use daily, which is traditionally made of plastic: deodorant.

Consider the first of the five R’s: refuse. This is not practical when it comes to deodorant, as this is an essential item that you need to use, so we’ll move on to step two, reduce. Again, you can consider if you’re using more deodorant than is necessary and reduce your consumption, but most likely this won’t make too much of a difference.

So now we come to step three – reuse – and this is where we can really have an impact. You can greatly reduce or even eliminate the waste you are producing through the deodorant you buy by purchasing a product like Schmidt’s natural deodorant that comes in a reusable glass jar or Crystal body deodorant with its minimal packaging and reusable dish. Reusing old candle jars is another great example of this step.

If these options don’t work for you, you can move on to step four, recycle by choosing a deodorant with fully recyclable components such as this BeNat zero waste bundle.

Take a look at our round-up of the best zero-waste deodorant for more ideas.

By applying these criteria to everything in your daily life from candles and trash bags to toilet paper and diapers, you’ll be able to gradually create a zero-waste lifestyle.

Don’t forget the last R – rot – which can be an excellent way to eliminate your organic waste and turn it into mulch for your garden. If you’ve always wanted to try composting but are not sure where to start, check out our guide to composting in an apartment.

Zero waste doesn’t happen overnight

If you have tried to go zero-waste in even one aspect of your life, you’ll know how challenging this can be. The term itself is so absolute, meaning that you have to produce no waste at all to be truly zero-waste, and this isn’t something that you can achieve instantly.

It is best to see this as a process, something that involves multiple steps, that will eventually let you create a zero-waste existence.

It’s easy to become overwhelmed by all the different things there are involved in being truly zero-waste and sustainable in how you live your life. Start with easy steps like eliminating plastic shampoo bottles and recycling properly, and gradually add more aspects to work towards a life that minimizes and eventually completely eliminates waste.

To keep motivated through this journey, it will be helpful to keep coming back to why you’re doing this. Revisit you “why” regularly, whether it is to protect the environment, preserve the earth’s resources for future generations, or something else.

Is recycling the same as zero waste?

You may have noticed that recycling falls fairly far down the list of the five R’s. This is because recycling is a far from perfect way of reducing the waste from your life.

In fact, many sustainability enthusiasts argue that recycling doesn’t qualify as zero-waste at all. It can be all too tempting to throw your plastics in the curb-side recycling bin and think you’ve done your bit for the environment.

However, recycling has its weaknesses, namely:

• Only around 5% of plastics people put in curbside recycling bins are actually recycled
• Many recycled items are sent offshore for processing, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions
• Even if they can be successfully recycled, the production of plastics in the first place relies on non-renewable resources and is very damaging to the environment.

Therefore, it is much better to refuse, reduce or reuse waste before moving on to the next step. Recycling can still be part of this picture, but it should be seen more as a last resort than your first go-to option.

How to be truly zero-waste

It’s important to remember that the waste you produce is not just what you throw in the trash can. The process of extracting resources from the earth and turning them into products produces more waste than the products themselves – far, far more waste. Terrifyingly, for every garbage can that goes to landfill, 87 garbage cans of waste are produced by extraction industries in order to make these materials in the first place.

You also need to consider the other steps of a product’s lifecycle, namely manufacturing, distribution, and waste destruction.

Is the product produced in a way that produces land, water, or air pollution? Additionally, what is the carbon footprint involved in bringing the product from its point of origin to your door and how is it packaged?

It is important to remember that becoming fully zero-waste also involves changes on the society-wide level.

If you focus on making your own personal trash jar as tiny as it can be, you may be ignoring a range of other harmful impacts your consumerism and personal habits are having on the environment.

Although this involves impacts on a much broader level, it doesn’t mean it’s beyond your control as an individual. This is where you can use your consumer power to affect change on a bigger level through buying sustainably-sourced and responsibly-made products.

Reducing, or ideally eliminating, the waste that is produced once the product reaches you is essential, but it’s also critical that you consider the journey that product has had before it gets to you, and the waste or environmental damage it may have produced as part of that journey.

Of course, it’s also important to remember that along with the changes we can make as consumers, there is also a great need for systemic change, such as rules and regulations that hold the extraction and manufacturing industries to account.

Key takeaways

In short, if you want to work towards a zero waste lifestyle, you should look for products that:

• Can be reduced, reused, recycled or composted
• Come in packaging that is minimal and/or can be reused, recycled or composted
• Are extracted and manufactured in an environmentally-friendly way
• Is extracted and manufactured as close to you as possible to limit the product’s carbon footprint

Going zero waste isn’t easy, nor does it happen overnight. However, by continuing to take these vital steps, from replacing plastic bags and disposable coffee cups with reusable ones to making sure every item in your medicine cabinet is zero waste, you’ll make a big difference.

Don’t forget to check out our product guides and roundups for more advice on how to live a zero waste life!

Hemp has a wide range of potential uses, and one of the most promising is its use in eco-friendly toilet paper. In this article, we’re going to examine the benefits of hemp toilet paper and why this material is such a great choice for toilet tissue.

Why should you consider switching to hemp toilet paper?

If you start to look critically at the common household items in your home, from toothpaste to candles, you’ll quickly realize how damaging many of them are to the environment. This is particularly true of one of our most basic essentials, humble toilet paper.

The average American uses 141 toilet rolls a year, and regular toilet paper is devastating for the environment, from sourcing the raw materials to producing the final product.

Traditional toilet paper is usually made from wood pulp, an industry that causes deforestation, either by harvesting old-growth forests or destroying other wild habitats in order to plant mono-culture plantations for wood production.

Both of these cause habitat destruction and make plants and animals in danger of extinction. Old-growth forests are also important carbon storage which plays a key role in slowing the rate of climate change, and so destroying them will speed up global warming.

The production process to make regular toilet paper is also devastating to the environment. Wood pulp needs to go through a series of harsh chemical and bleaching processes to turn it into soft, white toilet tissue. These chemicals then pollute our waterways and can also damage natural habitats.

Finally, once we throw the toilet paper away, it cannot biodegrade easily, and releases further chemicals into the environment as it does so.

Hemp on the other hand, is highly biodegradable, renewable, and can be grown, harvested and produced without as many negative impacts on the natural environment.

7 great things about hemp toilet paper

Let’s dive a little deeper into the properties that make hemp is such a great choice for toilet paper.

1. Hemp toilet paper is highly biodegradable

Hemp toilet paper can be produced without the chemicals and toxins that are used to make regular toilet paper. Therefore, they can be composted back into the soil without negative effects on the environment.

Equally, your hemp toilet paper will break down without these chemicals damaging your septic tank and our waterways.

Furthermore, hemp materials  are very biodegradable in general, from hemp paper to hemp fabric. When it comes to toilet paper, hemp breaks down more quickly and with much less water than conventional toilet paper.

In fact, hemp is the most biodegradable of any kind of tissue paper.

2. Hemp toilet paper is softer than regular paper

Hemp toilet paper is made from bast fibers that come from the inner parts of the plant’s stem. These fibers are naturally softer than those that come from other parts of the plant, such as the leaf.

Bast fibers are not unique to hemp: they are found in various plants, from linen (flax) to banana plants.

Because it is made from hemp bast fibers, hemp toilet paper is soft and supple. This is a great asset for this kind of product. After all, who doesn’t want to use soft toilet paper!

Regular toilet paper, on the other hand, is made from wood pulp which has coarser and less flexible fibers than hemp bast fibers.

3. Hemp toilet paper is durable

Hemp is used to make a range of products, from bags to building materials because it is one of the strongest and most durable fibers found in nature. We’ve already seen that hemp toilet paper is made from the plant’s bast fibers, which are strong and flexible, making this product extra durable.

Along with softness, durability is one of the most important qualities in a toilet paper. Another great property of hemp papers is that they can absorb up to four times its weight in water, making them ideal for toilet paper and paper towels.

4. Hemp toilet paper is antibacterial

Hemp fibers have a number of antibacterial and antifungal properties, thanks to the many natural, bioactive compounds found in the plant, including cannabinoids and alkaloids. This translates into hemp toilet paper also being antibacterial.

Antibacterial properties are a huge asset when it comes to toilet paper, as this can help to reduce the risk of infections in our sensitive areas, particularly for women. Contrast this to other toilet paper that can cause yeast infections, UTIs, allergic reactions, and discomfort.

5. Hemp toilet paper is renewable

Regular toilet paper is usually made from wood pulp, which you may think is a renewable resource. After all, trees can be replanted, so isn’t this renewable?

Not quite. You see, wood pulp often comes from old-growth forests (most of the wood pulp used in the US is sourced from ancient boreal forests in Canada). In this way, wood is not really a renewable resource, as these forests take hundreds if not thousands of years to regenerate.

Hemp, on the other hand, can be harvested after just 70 days of growth, making it truly renewable.

Compare this to trees planted for paper production, which take eight to 20 years per life cycle, and old-growth forests that take centuries to replace.

Furthermore, the hemp plant can rebalance nutrients in the soil, meaning that new crops can be sown in the same place without the need for chemical fertilizers.

Hemp toilet paper is also often made from the waste fibers from producing other hemp products, making this an even more sustainable option.

Finally, hemp paper is highly recyclable: you can recycle hemp paper up to seven times, compared to just three times for paper made from wood pulp. This means there is huge potential for making recycled toilet paper from other hemp products.

6. Hemp toilet paper produces more material per acre than trees

Toilet paper is made from plant fibers, which is essentially cellulose. Trees are 30% cellulose, while the hemp plant contains 85% cellulose.

Therefore, the hemp plant produces much more cellulose fibers and so more toilet paper than wood pulp. 

Additionally, a large amount of hemp can be grown on a single acre of land – up to 10 tons in fact! These factors combined mean that hemp produces four times as many cellulose fibers per acre compared to trees.

Why is this so important? Because the less land used to produce the toilet paper (and everything else) we use, the less forests and other wild habitats are destroyed as part of the production process.

Every year, around 28 million hectares of forest are cut down. Deforestation is a huge environmental problem because it destroys native habitats, causes species extinction and contributes to climate change.

7. Hemp toilet paper is not as harmful to the environment

Along with being more eco-friendly from the perspective of deforestation and climate change, hemp toilet paper is more environmentally-friendly than regular toilet paper in other ways too.

Hemp crops require very little water, reducing the strain on this precious resource. Additionally, hemp doesn’t need any fertilizers or pesticides to grow, and so these harmful chemicals are not released into the environment.

The production process to make hemp toilet paper is also more eco-friendly. Wood pulp fibers need to be broken down with harsh chemicals to create toilet paper, but hemp fibers don’t need this kind of treatment, again limiting the use of environmentally-damaging chemicals.

Furthermore, because less energy, water, and chemicals are required from the start to the end of the process, hemp toilet paper is actually cheaper to manufacture than regular toilet paper, making this a win-win-win!

Endnotes

As we look for ways to be more eco-friendly in our daily lives and lessen our impact on the environment, we need to look to new ways of doing things and new materials. Hemp is a fantastic, eco-friendly material.

It is renewable, biodegradable, requires very little water or land and virtually no chemicals to grow, and is easy to process. Being soft yet durable, it is also ideal for making toilet paper.

With all these properties, and being much kinder to the environment than regular toilet paper, hemp toilet paper is truly a win-win for everyone!

 If you want to switch to eco-friendly toilet tissue, check out our recommendations for zero-waste toilet paper.

By being a little more conscious of where you shop, you can put your plastic-free, zero-waste dreams into practice and help save our planet one step at a time. These are the best zero waste stores for guilt-free online shopping.

Like shopping on Amazon? Check our guide on how to recycle Amazon packaging to make this process more eco-friendly.

The best zero waste stores for the eco-conscious shopper

It is more important than ever to reduce unnecessary waste and limit our impact upon our planet. Here are our favorite zero-waste stores for eco-friendly, earth conscious shopping – so you can purchase all your essentials without contributing to landfill.  

1. Earth Hero

Looking for an easy way to shop for zero waste products? Earth Hero makes it simple. 

Their mission: “To make sustainable shopping so easy, everybody does it.” Unlike most online stores, Earth Hero only displays products that are sourced, created, and delivered in a manner that is beneficial to our planet’s future.

Thanks to their icons, you can tell straight away which sustainable features each product has, without any hype. What’s more, as Earth Hero believes there shouldn’t be a difference between high-quality products and sustainable ones, you can be sure that every purchase that you make via the site is a great one.

On their website, you can find a variety of eco-friendly items including everyday products like shampoo, organic face masks, zero waste toothpaste and more.

Shipping is guaranteed carbon neutral, and the company itself practices what they preach. They are a certified B-Corp, a member of 1% For The Planet, as well as being completely carbon neutral through Carbon Fund. 

In short, if you are looking for a hassle-free zero-waste shopping experience, Earth Hero should be one of your first ports of call. 

2. Tiny Yellow Bungalow

With its plastic-free packaging and zero-waste shipping, Tiny Yellow Bungalow is a great place to shop for all your needs sustainably. 

From zero-waste cleaning products to zero-waste bath and body products, there is plenty to choose from. Aside from showcasing highly useful, everyday zero-waste product alternatives, this site also has a fantastic blog with plenty of useful articles to help you reach your zero-waste goals. 

With a firm focus on providing a one-stop-shop where you can find a wide variety of natural products that are good for the user, as well as the planet, Tiny Yellow Bungalow is a great place for any eco-conscious shopper to get started. 

They have done all of the hard work checking out the fine details of each item to bring you authentic products that are not only free from harmful substances but also eco-friendly. All this in one convenient online store! 

3. Etee

Etee, short for Everything Touches Everything Else, is a fantastic store featuring plastic-free products that you won’t find anywhere else. 

Become a member of their Plastic Free Club and purchase your plastic-free products at wholesale prices. As the cost of going plastic free is often a major factor, Etee are true trailblazers providing everyone with the chance to purchase reusable and sustainable zero-waste products at discounted, wholesale prices.

Every item is packed and shipped plastic-free, so unlike regular online stores, you won’t have to ever worry about your environmentally-friendly product arriving covered in plastic wrapping. 

What’s more, the vast majority of the items in their store are made in the USA and Canada, with all Etee own products being made with 100% biodegradable, natural materials. 

Find out more and try out their highly popular plastic-free alternative to saran wrap over at the Etee Plastic Free Club.

4. Life Without Plastic

Providing high quality, ethically-sourced alternatives to plastic since 2006, if you are looking to embark on a zero-waste lifestyle Life Without Plastic makes a great starting point. 

With a quest to help anyone and everyone to reduce their plastic reliance, this store has a great selection of products specially designed to make it simple to switch to a zero-waste lifestyle. 

From plastic-free razors to travel kits, Life Without Plastic features a huge range of products. They also offer a plastic-free subscription box that makes a great way to get started reducing your reliance on plastics for a more sustainable way of life. 

Whether you are looking to reduce or completely eliminate your reliance upon plastics, then this site is a great place to get started, complete with a wealth of information about how you can make the most difference. 

5. Zero Waste Store

From pet care to kitchen products, if you are stuck for a zero-waste alternative, make sure you check out the Zero Waste Store with their huge variety of zero-waste products. This site is packed full of 100% all-natural ethical items that are fully compatible with a zero waste lifestyle. 

With their main goal of encouraging others to cut out single plastics, given the excellent range of products on offer, you won’t find the change as hard to make than solely relying upon locally available products. They also list their items via category, making this store an excellent place to find a gift for an ecologically minded friend or pet lover. 

Thanks to their plastic-free, vegan, organic, and compostable ranges, you can easily identify which types of products best fit in with your eco-friendly lifestyle. An outstanding site to more easily reduce your everyday waste and switch to more earth-friendly alternatives.

6. Package Free Shop

If you are on the lookout for affordable, sustainable home products, then the Package Free Shop is a must-visit site. 

A one-stop-shop specializing in a wide range of zero-waste alternatives from cleaning to baby products, the Package Free Shop believes that sustainable living should be easy. 

A convenient place to shop non-toxic, plastic-free products, the Package Free Shop also works with suppliers to help them to reduce their ecological footprint for more sustainable products. 

Pillars of their local community and supporters of local fundraising projects, the company is also committed to becoming a certified B Corp, as well as taking the 15% Pledge for racial justice. 

If you are looking for a large selection of plastic-free everyday essentials that aren’t overpriced, the Package Free Shop makes a great place to source your zero-waste alternative home goods. 

All shipping is 100% plastic-free, as well as being completely recyclable and compostable.

7. Zerovana

If you are looking for an online store to help you to meet your zero-waste lifestyle goals, Zerovana is a great place to get started. 

With a mission to help to minimize the use of plastics that pollute our planet, a visit to Zerovana will help to inspire you on your journey to a plastic-free, sustainable future. 

None of their products contain plastics and shipping is also plastic-free. What’s more, all cosmetics, soaps, and shampoo bars are palm-oil free and made by small US businesses. Whether you are looking for zero-waste beauty, natural skincare or home cleaning products, you’re sure to find an eco-friendly alternative at Zerovana.

If you are stuck for a gift for an eco-conscious friend, then don’t hesitate to check out Zerovana’s fantastic selection of zero-waste kits. Combining some of their bestsellers into easy-to-use kits, they also make a great introduction to an easy zero-waste lifestyle. 

8. Earthlove

If you’re looking for the best subscription box for eco-conscious living, you need to check out the Earthlove Box. Delivered seasonally, this eco-luxe lifestyle subscription box helps you to live more sustainably and mindfully, as well as providing you with over 60% off retail prices.

Earthlove boxes contain artisanal eco products to help you to convert to a more sustainable lifestyle. They also include a magazine with tips and ideas on how you can reduce your carbon footprint and limit waste. There is no commitment and you can cancel at any time. You can also gift a box to a friend or relative to help them to get set up living more sustainably. 

If you love to lead a luxurious lifestyle, becoming eco-conscious doesn’t mean you have to change all your ideals overnight. Earthlove boxes provide you with some excellent products that are also fantastic examples of what small, local artisans can produce – all without costing the Earth. 

Actions speak louder than words, if you’re struggling to convince a family member, consider sending them a box. 

9. Wild Minimalist

If you’re questioning the practicalities of going plastic-free be sure to take a look at these superb zero-waste kits by Wild Minimalist. Each kit is carefully composed to be of maximum utility, so much so you won’t even realize that you’ve made the switch.

Wild Minimalist was started to make it easier for users to begin their journey towards a zero-waste lifestyle. They vet all products to ensure their sustainability as well as making sure that all purchases ship in recyclable or compostable packaging.  

From their highly-popular reusable glass coffee cups to their fantastic beeswax cloths, if you are looking for inspiration to get your new sustainable lifestyle, then you’re sure to find it right here. 

10. A Drop In The Ocean

From reusable gift bags to shopping bags, if you are looking for zero-waste alternatives A Drop In The Ocean provides an excellent selection without compromising on style. Based in Tacoma, Washington, this online store is really motivated to make a change.

Each purchase leads to ten trees being planted, while at least one percent of annual sales are donated to ocean conservation. Furthermore, shopping at A Drop In The Ocean also supports local small, minority, and women-owned businesses. 

The driving idea is that every small change has a ripple effect and if you make that one small drop in the ocean for good, then in doing so you can potentially be the starting point for a much larger movement. 

They provide bulk refills as well as an Ocean Rewards Program, so if you are looking for a zero-waste online store with a focus on the ocean, this is the one to go for.

11. The Refill Shoppe

Rather than throwing out your empty beauty and cleaning product containers, why not simply refill them? That’s where the Refill Shoppe comes in handy. 

Use their Soapscriptions Service and they ship you your products in refillable pouches complete with a return envelope. When you’re out, simply mail back your empty pouch and they refill and return. A great way to a zero-waste lifestyle. 

Winners of the 2020 Spirit of Entrepreneurship by Women’s Economic Values, as well as 2020’s Best Eco Retail Shop by Eco Excellence Awards, the Refill Shoppe is also a certified B Corporation, as well as a member of 1% For The Planet. 

If you are looking for an eco-friendly way to enjoy relaxing, scented bath products, the Refill Shoppe makes an excellent choice. 

12. Eco Collective

This Seattle-based, women-owned zero-waste store sources their products from local small businesses. Shopping here helps both the planet and like-minded individuals who are also out to make a difference. 

Featuring elegant, useful everyday products for your home, with a firm focus on waste and environmental impact reduction, Eco Collective has a huge range of zero-waste reusable products. From locally made hand and body soaps to organic plant-based candles, this online store is well worth a visit.

All items ship in 100% recyclable or compostable materials and deliveries are made via a carbon-neutral shipping service. Recycled paper boxes, stuffing, paper tape, and compostable shipping labels, ensure that your purchase at Eco Collective will be perfectly in line with your zero-waste goals. 

All shipments are also 100% carbon neutral thanks to their carbon-neutral shipping service that offsets all emissions from your package transport. 

13. Acala

Born out of a desire to make being a more conscious consumer accessible to everyone, regardless of income and free time, Acala aims to aid its customers towards a more sustainable future. Environmentally and socially responsible, Acala is a great one-stop-shop for zero-waste beauty and health products at affordable prices.

A great place to shop if you are looking for organic, vegan, and natural products from leading brands that specialize in zero-waste health and beauty products, all items ship responsibly packaged without plastic. 

To help you save money favoring sustainable alternatives, Acala also offer a subscription box. Simply choose which products you regularly use and your box will ship on the 20th of every month, making sourcing the best zero-waste beauty and health products easier than ever before. 

14. Friendly Turtle

If you are looking for a UK based zero-waste shop or want to send eco-friendly gifts to friends in England, then Friendly Turtle is well worth checking out. 

Zero Turtle provides a wide variety of plastic-free products and encourages you to get started swapping out plastic items for sustainable ones, reminding customers that even small steps can make a big difference. 

Follow their guidance to make simple swaps and get your zero-waste plastic free goals off to a great start. With a large selection of products to choose from, especially in the zero-waste kitchen, natural hair care, and shaving departments, if you’re UK-based or just want to check out what they have on offer, be sure to pay a visit and check out their eco blog. 

15. No Tox Life

If you are looking for non-toxic personal beauty and home cleaning products that are compatible with a zero-waste lifestyle, then be sure to check out No Tox Life. 

This mother and daughter certified woman-owned small business grew from a desire to provide effective vegan, non toxic body and home care products. Having grown from strength to strength, this dynamic duo now sell their products online and their vision is well worth supporting.

All products contain plant-derived materials and their soaps utilize botanicals, powders, and oils, for products that are better for you as well as the planet. All items are shipped in packaging made from various sustainable, plastic-free materials, including user-donated cardboard boxes from major brands that are reused. 

From zero-waste shampoo to vegan dish blocks, be sure to check out some of No Tox Life’s pioneer products.

Conclusion

When you’re trying to lead a plastic-free, eco-friendly lifestyle, it can feel like the whole world is against you at times. 

Make sure that your eco-friendly purchase is all it’s made out to be by using one of our top zero-waste online store recommendations. These stores offer a great way to buy the plastic-free products you need, with plenty of support and some great tips on how to progress to a zero-waste lifestyle. 

Zero waste toilet paper: our top picks

Thankfully, there are alternatives to regular toilet paper that relies on non-sustainable wood pulp and is bleached with chlorine. In fact, there is a range of options when it comes to zero waste toilet paper: here are our eight top picks!

1. Marcal 100% Recycled Bath Tissue

This toilet paper from eco-friendly brand Marcal is made from 100% recycled paper. It is also whitened without chlorine bleach, dyes or fragrances, so doesn’t use chemicals that can be harmful to the environment.

What we like:

• 2-ply, perforated and embossed sheets – making this toilet tissue strong, soft and absorbent.
• Sustainable – the rolls are made from 100% recycled content and wrapped in paper, so there’s no plastic waste.
• Free from bleach, chemicals, dyes, or fragrances – so is not only better for the environment, but this toilet paper is also hypoallergenic.

What we don’t like:

• Only available by the case – with 48 rolls, this bulk purchase will take up a fair amount of storage space.

This product not only meets but exceeds EPA guidelines for post-consumer recycled content and is Green Seal certified. You can therefore be confident that it is safe for your health, as well as for the environment.

2. Pure Planet Bamboo and Sugarcane Toilet Tissue

Pure Planet’s toilet tissue is “tree-free” as it is made from renewable bamboo and sugarcane fibers. Not only are these plant-based materials more sustainable than toilet paper made from wood pulp, but they are also fully recyclable and biodegradable.

What we like:

• Long and strong – each roll is 3-ply for extra strength and double length, so you don’t need to worry about running out of paper.
• Plastic-free – the rolls are wrapped in paper to eliminate plastic waste.

What we don’t like:

• Bleached – although bleached with comparatively-less harmful chlorine dioxide, chemicals are used in the manufacturing process.

The bamboo and sugarcane this product is made from is not only renewable, but Pure Planet only uses waste material from the manufacturing industry. This sustainable toilet tissue is also septic safe and RV safe, so you can use it in virtually any system while protecting the planet!

3. Natural Value 100% Recycled Bathroom Tissue

Natural Value’s toilet tissue is not only 100% recycled, but the brand also guarantees that their products are a minimum of 80% post-consumer recycled content. Not only is the toilet paper sustainable, but it comes wrapped in paper too, meaning no plastic packaging!

What we like:

• Recycled – the toilet tissue is made from majority post-consumer recycled content that is 100% recycled.
• Bleach and chemical-free – no bleach, dyes, inks or fragrances are used in production, so this product is all-natural.

What we don’t like:

• Price – some online reviewers note that the brand has recently substantially increased the price of this product.

We particularly like that this recycled toilet paper is made in the USA, meaning that you can rest assured that it doesn’t come with a load of carbon miles, as well as supporting the local economy.

4. Bumkins Reusable Flannel Baby Wipes and Wet Bag

Reusable wipes are arguably the most zero-waste option when it comes to toilet paper, as they involve no disposable waste at all. These flannel baby wipes make a good toilet paper alternative that can be washed and reused.

Use the wipes with Bumkins’ waterproof wet bag to keep the wipes hygienically stored until you wash them.

What we like:

• Unbleached cotton wipes – the wipes are made from soft and natural, 100% unbleached cotton.
• Polyester wet bag – the wet bag is 100% polyester, embedded with waterproof coating to keep mess and odors inside the bag, without layers of fabric that can foster bacterial or fungal growth.

What we don’t like:

• Takes some getting used to – moving to reusable wipes or a “family cloth” can be a big change from regular toilet paper.

Bumkins’ flannel wipes are soft and lightweight, making them perfect not only for baby wipes, but for adults too! Although a big transition, using these wipes in combination with a wet bag is a truly zero waste solution.

5. Kitchen + Home Reusable Bamboo Towels

Although designed to be used in the kitchen, these are another reusable option that you can also use in the toilet. Not only are these towels washable, they are also made from sustainable, organic – so they are an eco-friendly win-win!

What we like:

• Bamboo – the towels are made from bamboo from a sustainable, certified organic source, and this material is also strong, durable, and absorbent.
• Machine washable – they can also be washed and reused up to 120 times, according to the manufacturer.

What we don’t like:

• Limited uses – some online reviews say these towels start to show signs of wear after a few washes.

Bamboo is one of the most sustainable materials in the world, being renewable, fast-growing, and needing no chemicals and little water to grow. You’ll be helping the environment with towels made from a sustainable material, if you reuse them, all the better!

6. No. 2 Bamboo Toilet Paper

Another product made from sustainable bamboo, No. 2’s three-ply toilet paper is strong and won’t tear easily. The paper is 100% recyclable, and it comes wrapped in recycled paper packaging.

What we like:

• All-natural ingredients – all components are sustainable, from the bamboo toilet paper to the recycled packaging that is printed with soybean ink.
• Clog free – this paper can be used in a range of different systems, including septic tanks and RVs.

What we don’t like:

• Not the softest – some reviewers report that this paper is one the rougher side.

No. 2’s toilet paper is a strong and hardy toilet paper made from entirely sustainable ingredients. Like many tree-free and recycled options, it is only available in bulk quantities, but being sold as a set of 24 rolls, this is more manageable than most.

7. Seventh Generation 100% Recycled Bathroom Tissue

This is another sustainable toilet paper option made from 100% recycled paper. The rolls are individually-wrapped in paper that is 100% recyclable.

What we like:

• Sustainable – the toilet paper is made from 100% paper with no dyes, inks, or fragrances, as well as being whitened without chlorine.
• Long rolls – each roll is 1000 sheets long, so won’t run out too soon.

What we don’t like:

• One-ply – the paper may not be as strong as two-ply or three-ply products.

Made from recycled paper and packed in recyclable paper, this toilet paper is compatible with low flow toilets and is septic safe.

8. TUSHY Bidet Attachment

Although not toilet paper, a bidet attachment is a fantastic, zero-waste alternative to toilet paper. You can easily install this affordable attachment from TUSHY in around ten minutes, without the need for electrical hook ups or additional plumbing

What we like:

• Toilet-paper alternative – replace toilet paper completely, or use the bidet in combination with a sustainable toilet tissue and greatly reduce your consumption.
• Adjustable – you can adjust the nozzle and pressure according to your preference.

What we don’t like:

• May not fit all toilets – some online reviewers report that this adjustable bidet doesn’t fit well on their toilet, so be sure to check the specifications.

TUSHY’s bidet attachment is a great option for anyone looking to reduce their toilet paper usage or ditch it altogether without having to install a full bidet.

Why should you switch to zero waste toilet paper?

One of the major problems with toilet paper is deforestation and forest degradation: the simple fact is that every time you flush paper down the toilet, you’re flushing part of a tree.

The average American uses 141 toilet rolls a year, which means destroying a lot of trees to produce those rolls.

Regular toilet paper is typically made from wood pulp, an industry that is driving deforestation around the world.

Most wood pulp in the US comes from Canadian boreal forest, where ancient trees are cut down to make toilet paper, printer paper, and facial tissues. This destroys the habitats of wildlife like songbirds and caribou, as well as the traditional homes of indigenous communities.

Destroying the boreal and other forests to make wood pulp also contributes to climate change, as these forests represent important carbon storage and soaking up greenhouse gases. In fact, the Nature Conservancy describes Canada’s boreal forest as “the Earth’s largest terrestrial carbon sink”.

Therefore, destroying these forests to make toilet paper will likely accelerate the rate of climate change, when we should be going in the opposite direction!

As well as the wood pulp, a lot of water is used to make toilet paper, using up another of the earth’s precious natural resources. Over 400 billion gallons of water is used to make the USA’s toilet supply every year, not to mention 253,000 tons of chlorine to bleach it.

Additionally, regular toilet paper is usually packaged in non-recyclable plastic that will clog up landfill for decades, if it doesn’t make its way into our rivers and oceans instead.

What exactly is ‘zero waste’ toilet paper?

Going sustainable will your toilet paper can be confusing because of the range of different solutions. There are a number of vastly different options to replace regular, non-sustainable toilet paper.

Sustainable toilet paper

The most recognizable alternatives are sustainable, eco-friendly types of toilet paper such as:

Family cloth

You can also choose to avoid tissues altogether. One way to do this is by using a so-called ‘family cloth’, a similar principle to cloth diapers.

Don’t be alarmed by the name, which is a little misleading. This isn’t a cloth used by the whole family, but rather a set of cloths for individual use.

These are essentially a set of reusable fabric swatches. After use, the swatches can be washed and then reused – we’ll discuss how exactly to use these in the FAQs section below.

Bidet attachment

Another option that eliminates the need for toilet paper of any kind is by using some variation on a bidet. In many cultures, it is normal to use a bidet or similar instead of toilet paper.

If you’re not familiar with a bidet, this is a toilet-like fixture that shoots jets of water to clean the intimate parts of your body.

This doesn’t have to mean redesigning your bathroom to include a full-sized bidet. A bidet attachment can be attached to your regular toilet and works in much the same way as a bidet.

These are generally very easy to install yourself and don’t use any electricity.

A similar principle is a hand-held squirt gun that attaches to your toilet and works in basically the same way as a bidet attachment. These have long been used in Asia and the Middle East.

You could even use a regular squirt bottle in the same way.

Many eco-conscious consumers like to use a bidet attachment in combination with other sustainable toilet paper options. This can be used to reduce the “ick” factor associated with a family cloth, or to reduce your toilet paper usage.

By only using toilet paper to dry off post-bidet, you should reduce the amount of tissue you need to use by more than half.

What to look for in a zero waste toilet paper product

When buying any zero waste toilet paper, it is important to consider a number of factors, from the materials they’re made from to the packaging it comes in.

Materials

One of the key considerations when buying zero-waste toilet paper is the materials it is made from. Eco-friendly toilet paper materials include recycled paper, as well as sustainable plants such as bamboo or sugarcane. You can even find toilet paper made from hemp, which is a great eco-friendly option as well.

Of course, even products made from sustainable materials like bamboo or recycled paper are not “zero-waste” in the literal sense, though they are eco-friendly. The only true zero-waste toilet paper are reusable wipes such as a family cloth.

Packaging

It is important to consider both the toilet paper itself, and the packaging it comes in (including the outer packaging it is shipped in). Regular toilet paper is typically wrapped in plastic, but the best zero-waste products come packaged in recycled and/or recyclable paper.

Chemicals

Regular toilet paper is typically bleached with chemicals (usually chlorine), as well as frequently being treated with dyes and chemical fragrances. These can all have devastating impacts on the environment, and may not be fantastic for your health, either.

When buying zero-waste toilet paper, you should check whether any chemicals have been used in the production process.

Sustainable Toilet Paper FAQs

In case you still have doubts about zero-waste toilet paper, we’ve addressed some of the most frequently asked questions on the subject.

What’s the difference between recycled toilet paper and reusable toilet paper?

Recycled toilet paper is similar to regular toilet paper; the key difference is that it is made from recycled paper rather than virgin wood pulp.

Therefore, this is not strictly zero-waste, as the paper is still flushed down the toilet. However, recycled products eliminate many of the environmental concerns associated with regular toilet paper, such as the use of virgin wood pulp that causes deforestation.

On the other hand, reusable toilet paper is a piece of cloth that can be washed and used over and over again. In this way, it is truly zero-waste.

Is reusable toilet paper safe to use?

As long as you use it properly – absolutely! The main risk with reusable toilet paper is that it may spread bacteria if not cleaned well. As long as you store and wash it thoroughly (see below), this will not be an issue.

How do you use reusable toilet paper?

To use a family cloth or another type of reusable toilet paper, hang a set of clean cloths next to the toilet. Once used, put the dirty cloth in a “wet bag”: a sealed, waterproof bag that will contain the dirty wipes, odors, and bacteria until you wash them.

You can then put the contents in the washing machine to clean it before using it again. It is best to wash on a very hot setting to kill germs and bacteria.

Final thoughts

There is quite a bit of debate over which zero waste toilet paper is best. At the end of the day, there is no right or wrong answer, as it really comes down to personal preference.

When trying to live an eco-friendly lifestyle, it is important to take small, achievable steps. You could start by buying recycled or tree-free toilet paper, and work up to a completely zero-waste bidet and/or family cloth solution!

If you’ve found this a helpful round up of zero waste toilet paper, go ahead and share it on social media to spread the world about living a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

Why should you switch to zero waste deodorant?

The world is literally drowning in plastic. In 2015, 322 million metric tons of plastic was produced, with experts predicting that figure will quadruple by 2050.

This is causing a mounting waste management problem as plastic overflows from landfill, polluting precious land and spilling into waterways. Much of this plastic makes its way into the ocean, with 8 million metric tons of plastic reportedly dumped into the ocean every minute.

Traditional deodorant relies heavily on plastic: the casing, lid and roller dial are all usually made of plastic. What’s more, deodorant is usually a composite of different types of plastics, with each of these components being distinct plastics that cannot be recycled together.

This makes it virtually impossible to recycle properly, and attempting to do so without completely disassembling the product can cause batch contamination.

You may think that wasteful deodorant is a necessary evil. After all, as much as you want to look after the environment and limit the amount of plastic you produce, you also want to maintain proper personal hygiene.

Luckily, you don’t have to choose between using an effective deodorant and protecting the planet, thanks to the range of zero-waste deodorants now available!

Zero waste deodorants: our top picks

The zero-waste industry has grown exponentially in recent years, and zero-waste deodorant is no exception. We’ve helped you to narrow down your quest for the perfect zero-waste deodorant with our top picks.

1. BeNat Zero Waste Bundle

This zero-waste beauty pack not only includes deodorant but also eco-friendly body powder, a shampoo bar, and a conditioner bar. All products come in low-waste cardboard containers, and any plastic components, such as the body powder’s sifter, are recyclable.

All ingredients are natural and cruelty-free, and the products are free from aluminum, parabens, phthalate, and synthetic fragrances.

What we like:

• Lemon and tea tree – the deodorant is scented with essential oils for a natural, uplifting fragrance.
• Biodegradable packaging – it comes in a biodegradable, cardboard container.

What we don’t like:

• Baking soda – People with sensitive skin may find this ingredient irritates their skin.

This pack is zero-waste, with cardboard packaging and recyclable plastic components, so you can minimize your impact on the environment. With all-natural ingredients, you can also be assured that it contains no chemicals that will harm you or the planet!

2. CRYSTAL Mineral Body Deodorant Stone

This crystal deodorant comes in the form of a five-ounce rock that contains natural mineral salts that eliminate the bacteria in our skin that cause body odor. To use it, simply wet the stone and rub it onto clean skin.

The product comes with a reusable dish to hold your rock but no other packaging, keeping waste to a minimum.

What we like:

• 100% natural minerals – this crystal deodorant is free from aluminum, parabens, alcohol, and fragrances.
• Minimal packaging – the stone has no integrated packaging or casing.

What we don’t like:

• Can accumulate odors – Crystal deodorants are prone to building up odors, especially if you apply them to skin that is not 100% clean.

Crystal rock deodorants are one of the lowest-waste options for eco-conscious shoppers. Although the form takes a bit of getting used to, the minimal packaging means you’re helping to protect the environment.

3. Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant

Packaged in a sustainable, glass jar, you can easily apply this deodorant cream using a popsicle stick or simply your finger. Made from vegan ingredients, it is naturally scented with lime, vanilla and rose, and contains zero aluminum, alcohol, parabens, or propylene glycol.

What we like:

• Smooth feel – the deodorant is non-greasy and non-sticky.
• Vegan – all ingredients are plant-based and cruelty-free.

What we don’t like:

• A little messy – as with all deodorant creams, this product can be a bit messy to apply.

Deodorant creams are another innovative way to maintain your personal hygiene while protecting the planet. This is another one that may take some getting used to, but it’s worth giving it a try!

4. Meow Meow Tweet Zero Waste Deodorant Cream

Meow Meow Tweet deodorant cream comes in a reusable glass jar and is formulated with organic plant oils. This not only minimizes odors but nourishes the skin at the same time. Made from natural ingredients, such as kaolin clay, shea butter and jojoba seed oil, it is palm-oil and aluminum-free.

The deodorant cream is available in both lavender and tea tree scents.

What we like:

• Sustainable inner or outer packaging – the product comes in a reusable glass jar and ships in a recyclable/compostable paper box.
• Made in the USA – you can reduce your carbon footprint by buying a locally-made product.

What we don’t like:

• Temperature-sensitive – the cream can become grainy if too cold, and may liquefy at high temperatures.

Being made in the USA, this deodorant cream is not only zero-waste, but it boasts low carbon miles and supports the economy – a double win-win!

5. Meow Meow Tweet Deodorant Stick

Another great option from Meow Meow Tweet is their deodorant stick. If you’re more accustomed to a conventional deodorant, you’ll appreciate this push-up deodorant stick.

Better still, it’s packaged in a recyclable and compostable paper tube, and shipped in outer packaging that is both recycled and recyclable.

What we like:

• Paper packaging – the tube comes in a 100% paper tube that can either be recycled or composted.
• No baking soda – one of the few natural deodorants free from this common ingredient, this is a good choice for sensitive skin.

What we don’t like:

• Needs careful handling – you need to be careful not to push too hard on the bottom of the tube, as you cannot get the stick back into the packaging if it is pushed all the way out.

If you’re accustomed to a traditional stick-like deodorant, this product is a great option while being zero waste. It’s also made from all-natural ingredients, and is even baking-soda free.

6. CRYSTAL Mineral Deodorant Stick

This is another deodorant to use the antibacterial power of minerals, this time in a stick form. It comes in recyclable packaging.

All ingredients are vegan, cruelty free, and natural.

What we like:

• Mineral formula – the mineral stick is formulated to eliminate the bacteria that cause body odor and forms a preventative barrier for up to 24 hours.
• Natural – the formula is free from aluminum, parabens, phthalates, silicones, and artificial dyes or fragrances.

What we don’t like:

• Specific use – because of the particular way that mineral deodorants work, they are not effective unless applied to very clean skin.

An easy-to-use mineral deodorant stick, this product is made from completely natural minerals, and is chemical free. It is also zero-waste, thanks to its recyclable packaging.

7. Ethique Deodorant Bar

This deodorant bar is another unique take on the zero-waste format and is shaped rather like a bar of soap. Packaged in a compostable cardboard box, both the packaging and the product itself are fully biodegradable.

The bar is completely unscented, and contains jojoba and sweet almond oil for smooth skin.

What we like:

• Absorbs sweat – contains magnesium hydroxide, zinc oxide, and bamboo to soak up sweat and odors.
• Hypoallergenic and non-irritant – free from baking soda, aluminum, or toxins, which makes it great for sensitive skin.

What we don’t like:

• Made in New Zealand – product needs to be shipped internationally, so can be inconvenient and expensive to get hold of.

We love how innovative zero-waste products can be – why not try a bar deodorant? Ethique’s unscented deodorant bar naturally absorbs sweat and odors and eliminates waste with biodegradable packaging.

8. Artemis at Dawn Scented Body Powder

Another alternative to traditional deodorant is a body powder designed to eliminate odors. The Artemis at Dawn scented body powder has arrowroot powder and kaolin clay to reduce sweat and chafing, and antimicrobial essential oils to combat odor-causing bacteria.

With scents of patchouli, black pepper, and rose geranium, it can be applied with a brush or your hands to your underarms, feet, or any part of your body!

What we like:

• Recyclable packaging – the powder comes in a recyclable cardboard container with a plastic lid and base.
• Natural and organic – free from talc, aluminum, and heavy metals.

What we don’t like:

• Powder form – powder deodorants take some getting used to, and you may need to play around with quantities and application to find what works for you.

If you want to eliminate sweat and odors on various parts of your body, this body powder is for you! You’ll love the natural ingredients and fragrances, while avoiding waste with its recyclable packaging.

9. Ben & Anna Natural Soda Deodorant

Based on shea butter and soda (sodium bicarbonate), this deodorant is chemical-free with essential oils providing its fresh Persian lime scent. The product comes in a fully recyclable paper tube.

What we like:

• Sustainable – comes in a recyclable paper tube and the company supports ocean cleaning.
• Smooth application – the solid consistency is non-greasy and non-sticky.

What we don’t like:

• Can liquefy at high temperatures – you’ll need to put it in the fridge if it gets too hot.

Not only is this product zero-waste, but the brand also helps to fight the larger problem by supporting ocean cleaning. You can enjoy the smooth texture and fresh scent while knowing you’re helping look after the environment at the same time.

Best zero waste deodorant: a buyer’s guide

If you are an eco-conscious shopper, being armed with the right information will allow you to choose a deodorant that is effective, good for your health and looks after the planet at the same time.

What exactly is zero waste deodorant?

Zero-waste deodorant is any deodorant product that doesn’t produce waste, be it plastic or otherwise. Instead, it uses packaging that is biodegradable, reusable, or recyclable.

When looking for any zero-waste product, it is important to consider not only the waste involved in the product itself, but the entire production process and shipping as well. The latter can be the hardest to determine, as there may be waste generated during ingredient sourcing or manufacturing that goes unseen.

It is challenging to find a deodorant, or any product for that matter, that is truly zero-waste, that is, a product that generates absolutely no waste at any stage of the production process. Therefore, it is arguably a better approach to look for products that are within a circular system.

This means that all elements of the product itself, as well as all by-products of the production process, can either be composted or recycled.

What to look for in a zero waste deodorant product

When buying zero-waste deodorant, there are a number of factors to consider, including the ingredients, packaging, and how easily the product can be recycled.

Ingredients

Most zero-waste deodorants also use natural ingredients, avoiding chemicals such as parabens and aluminum, commonly found in mainstream deodorants. Although the evidence is not conclusive, some studies have linked aluminum in deodorants with breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

One slightly controversial ingredient commonly found in zero-waste deodorants is sodium bicarbonate. Although this is the same as the baking soda commonly used in cooking, some people think it should not be included in natural products as it is not strictly organic.

For most people, sodium bicarbonate will not be problematic and will find this ingredient effective in controlling the bacteria that can cause bad odors. Indeed, the EPA has declared sodium bicarbonate as low risk and non-toxic.

However, some people may find baking soda irritates the skin, particularly if your skin is sensitive. Therefore, it may be best to test a little baking soda on your skin and if you notice a reaction, avoid products containing sodium bicarbonate.

Packaging

Of course, one of the key concerns when buying zero-waste deodorants is the amount of waste they produce. Just about every product comes in some kind of packaging, but the exact nature of that packaging is important.

First of all, the products should be designed to come in the least amount of packaging possible. For example, some zero-waste deodorants come in rock or cream form that needs very little packaging.

Secondly, the packaging, such as it is, should be sustainable, whether it is reusable or recyclable. Finally, it is important to consider the outer packaging: is it wrapped in plastic? Does it ship in bubble wrap?

Finding a product that is sustainable in both its integral and outer packaging is essential in order for it to be considered zero-waste.

Recyclable

As mentioned, for a deodorant to be zero-waste, its components and packaging need to be either reusable or recyclable. However, it is important to dig a bit deeper into what we mean when we say “recyclable”.

Some deodorants may be labeled as recyclable, but you need to make sure that the relevant materials can be recycled where you live. If you’re not sure, always check with your local waste collection service before buying a product.

Make it yourself

Another eco-conscious option when it comes to deodorant is to make it yourself. This does take a little time and effort, but homemade products are undoubtedly one of the best ways to limit waste!

To make your own natural deodorant, simply mix together baking soda, arrowroot powder, unrefined coconut oil and one or more essential oils.

You can choose whichever essential oils depending on the scents you love and the positive effects you’re looking for. For example, sweet orange essential oil is said to reduce anxiety, lavender is calming, and eucalyptus oil will give you energy.

Once you’ve made your DIY deodorant, you can store it in a jar or container of your choice. To use it, scoop a little with your finger or a popsicle stick and apply it to your skin.

You can also play around with adding a little beeswax or shea butter for a thicker, stick-like deodorant if you prefer to use it that way.

Wrapping Up

An important part of looking after the planet is considering the impact of the items that we use every day, such as shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant and even face masks. Beauty and personal care products not only traditionally come packaged in large amounts of plastic, but also contain ingredients that can be harmful to the environment, as well as to human health.

Luckily, being an eco-conscious consumer has never been easier!

There are a large range of different types of zero-waste, ethical, and natural deodorants around these days, from mineral rock deodorant to deodorant cream and powder. Not every type of zero-waste deodorant will suit everyone, so it is important to experiment with different products to find the one that you love!

Did you find this round-up of the best zero-waste deodorants useful? If so, please share it with your friends and family so they can also be more eco-conscious in their daily routine.

As consumers, one of the best things we can do to protect the Earth is to buy zero-waste products, particularly when it comes to essential items we use every day like toothpaste.

Why should you switch to zero waste toothpaste?

If you are environmentally-conscious, chances are that you’ve already reduced or eliminated single-use plastics, replacing plastic bags with calico ones, and ditching disposable take-away cups. But what about less obtrusive types of plastic waste?

Many products that we use as part of our daily lives, from toothpaste and floss to shampoo, deodorants and even bubble baths come packaged in disposable plastic containers. We often overlook these kinds of essential daily products, but the fact is they contribute significantly to the waste that piles into landfills every year.

The devastating impacts of plastic waste

According to the EPA, US households generated a total of 267.8 million tons of municipal solid waste in 2017, representing 4.48 pounds of trash per person per day heading to landfill. 13.2% of this trash was plastic products and both the proportion of plastic products and the amount of trash overall increased compared to previous years.

Plastic waste in landfill takes hundreds of years to break down: a typical toothpaste tube will take up to 700 years to degrade.

As we are generating waste much faster than it can break down, we are continually needing to find new spaces for landfill, polluting more and more of the natural environment.

Additionally, plastic waste doesn’t always stay contained in landfill: from there it can also make its way into waterways and eventually to the ocean. An estimated 8 million metric tons of plastic is dumped into the ocean every minute, posing serious threats to marine life.

If you need more convincing to go zero-waste, you should know that plastics also contribute to climate change. Plastics are made from petroleum or natural gas, and plastic production accounts for 4% of total global use of oil and gas resources.

Of course, it is impossible to eliminate essential items such as toothpaste from our lives. Happily, there is a solution to keep using toothpaste without contributing to the plastic problem: zero-waste products.

Top 10 zero waste toothpaste products to replace your regular brand

Thanks to the rise of eco-consumerism in recent years, more and more brands are releasing zero-waste toothpaste options that use biodegradable, compostable or reusable packaging. 

Here are the best products on the market today to maintain your dental hygiene without harming the environment.

1. Xtra Whitening Charcoal Toothpaste

This charcoal toothpaste comes in a reusable glass jar. So once you’ve used all of the product, you can put the jar to use to store food or beauty products, meaning no waste!

The toothpaste is made with coconut-activated charcoal that has a whitening effect, with cinnamon, cloves and mint for a refreshing flavor (although the use of spices makes the flavor somewhat unusual). The product is fluoride-free, glycerin-free and gluten-free, thus avoiding potential digestive issues associated with these ingredients.

It also does not contain any Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, artificial flavors or colors, nor alcohol, so is great for anyone looking for all-natural ingredients.

What we like:

• Whitening properties – due to the coconut-activated charcoal ingredient.
• SLS free – does not contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.

What we don’t like:

• Flavor is a little unusual – while the addition of cinnamon and cloves gives a unique flavor, it might be a little unusual for those who are used to just mint.

2. Georganics Natural Toothpaste Tablets

This is another zero-waste toothpaste that comes in a reusable glass jar. However, this time the toothpaste is in the form of chewable tablets.

If you’ve never tried toothpaste tablets you may be a little dubious, but these will clean your teeth as well as any conventional toothpaste. Chewable toothpaste tablets create a paste when crushed by your teeth and mixed with your saliva that you can use to clean your teeth with a toothbrush as usual.

Because each tablet is self-contained in its own tablet, rather like a breath mint, there’s no waste! These tablets are also loaded with natural ingredients to protect your teeth, kill bacteria, and promote fresh breath

This product is free of fluoride, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, and glycerin, as well as cruelty-free and vegan.

What we like:

• Easy storage – the tablets come in a reusable glass jar that is not only zero-waste but also no mess, no fuss.
• Cruelty-free – all ingredients are vegan and not tested on animals.

What we don’t like:

• Chewable tablets – may take some getting used to if you have not used these before.

3. Simply Sooney Tooth Powder

Another way to keep your teeth clean without producing plastic waste is by using tooth powder.

This powder comes in food-safe paper packaging, so you can put it in the reusable storage container of your choice.

You can use the tooth powder by dipping a damp toothbrush into the powder, and then brush your teeth as normal.

The powder contains only natural, vegan ingredients, including bentonite clay, calcium carbonate and organic peppermint oil for a fresh taste.

Another plus of this product is that the seller guarantees that it is shipped without any plastic packaging.

What we like:

• Paper packaging – you can store the tooth powder in your own reusable container.
• Zero waste in shipping – no plastic outer packaging.

What we don’t like:

• Doesn’t come in a storage container – you’ll need to find a container to store the powder in.

4. Georganics Natural Tooth Powder

Another great option for tooth powder is this Natural Tooth Powder from Georganics. The tooth powder comes in a reusable glass jar and is free from plastic packaging of any kind.

This powder contains magnesium and sodium bicarbonate, both natural ingredients that will whiten your teeth and remove stains. All ingredients are vegan and cruelty-free, and there are no phthalates or sulfates in the product.

You can choose between English peppermint and activated charcoal. Activated charcoal is not only beneficial for oral health, but it has a range of general health benefits including supporting kidney health and reducing diarrhea.

What we like:

• Whitening and stain removal – thanks to magnesium and sodium bicarbonate.
• Activated charcoal – promotes oral and digestive health.

What we don’t like:

• Made in the UK – If you’re in the US, this will involve some carbon miles.

5. David’s Premium Natural Toothpaste

This product comes in a BPA-free, food-grade aluminum tube that is fully recyclable. When you’ve finished using the product, you simply cut off the top and bottom of the tube, open it up, and clean the residual toothpaste.

As long as aluminum is accepted in your area, you can then put the clean tube in your curbside recycling bin.

You can choose to order it with an optional reusable metal tube key that allows you to get all of the toothpaste out of the tube, to make the recycling process even easier.

The toothpaste is made from all-natural ingredients, including calcium carbonate to remove plaque, sodium bicarbonate to whiten teeth, and birch-derived xylitol as a sweetener.

98% of the ingredients are of US origin, helping minimize the carbon footprint not only of the product itself, but from all the ingredients that go into making it.

What we like:

• Fully recyclable aluminum tube – optional metal tube key to help with recycling.
• Locally-sourced ingredients – almost all ingredients of US origin.

What we don’t like:

• You’ll need to check if recyclable – aluminum may or may not be easily recyclable in your area.

6. Uncle Harry’s Peppermint Toothpaste

This toothpaste comes in a three-ounce glass jar that can be reused or repurposed as you wish.

Made from pure plant essences, sea salt, and powerful mineral clay, this toothpaste neutralizes acids and bacteria in your mouth, helping to remineralize tooth enamel and make your teeth stronger.

The powerful natural ingredients deliver calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, also helping to strengthen your teeth. The vegan, natural ingredients are free from fluoride, gluten and glycerin.

What we like:

• Mineral clay – neutralizes acids and bacteria in your mouth.
• No plastic – comes in a reusable glass jar.

What we don’t like:

• Contains lead – may be best avoided by pregnant women.

7. The Dirt Natural Mineral Brushing Powder

This tooth powder will actually do the opposite of what the name suggests, and will help keep your teeth clean and your breath fresh!

The powder comes in a reusable glass jar, and like other tooth powders can be used by simply dipping a damp toothbrush into the jar and brushing as normal.

You only need to use a small amount of powder every time you brush your teeth, so one jar of Dirt Brushing Powder should last you around six months. You can then put the attractive jar to use for other purposes meaning nothing goes to waste!

The powder has a bentonite clay base, a gentle abrasive that won’t scratch or damage even sensitive tooth enamel. The formula of natural ingredients and essential oils has antiseptic and antibacterial properties to keep your whole mouth healthy.

You can choose between three natural flavors: super mint, sweet spice and cinna mint.

What we like:

• Concentrated – each jar should last around six months.
• Jar can be repurposed – comes in an attractive, reusable jar.

What we don’t like:

• Inconsistent – some reviews on Amazon say the product can vary depending on the batch.

8. Fat and the Moon Anise Clove Cleansing Tooth Oil

Another natural, zero-waste way to clean your teeth is by using a tooth oil. This cleansing oil from Fat and the Moon comes in a recyclable glass container with a glass dropper, and ships in packaging that is both recycled and recyclable.

It contains ingredients that will clean your teeth and support gum health by eliminating bacteria such as essential oils of clove, castile soap, and myrrh. It also contains anise essential oil that not only provides a sweet flavor but also promotes better digestion.

This tooth oil is designed to be non-abrasive, making it ideal for people with sensitive teeth or gums. It can also be used in combination with an abrasive like calcium bentonite clay for better plaque removal.

What we like:

• Anise essential oil – aids digestion.
• Non-abrasive  – perfect for sensitive teeth and gums.

What we don’t like:

• Non-abrasive – Not very effective for plaque removal.

9. Krista’s Peppermint Toothpaste

This organic toothpaste comes in recyclable packaging, though it should be noted that it is only recyclable through Terra cycle, which has an additional charge.

With a base of calcium bentonite clay, the toothpaste also contains ionic sea minerals from the Great Salt Lake in Utah and organic peppermint oil for a refreshing flavor.

You only need a small peppercorn-sized amount of the paste to clean your teeth: either scoop it directly from the jar with a clean toothbrush, or transfer the paste to your brush using a spoon or simply your fingertip.

What we like:

• Ionic sea minerals – remineralizes and strengthens teeth.
• Bentonite clay – gentle but effective plaque removal.

What we don’t like:

• Not free to recycle – recycling has an extra charge.

10. Georganics Vegan Compostable Floss

This one is not toothpaste but it is equally important for your oral health! We know that flossing regularly is vital for healthy teeth and gums, but dental floss and the containers it comes in are also major contributors to landfill.

This dental floss from Georganics is fully compostable and comes in a reusable glass dispenser. Once you’ve used all of the floss, simply order a refill and keep using the same dispenser.

The floss is made from activated charcoal, vegetable waxes, and essential oils, so not only is it compostable, but it will help to freshen your breath and promote healthy teeth and gums.

What we like:

• Zero waste – floss is fully compostable, in a reusable glass dispenser with refills available.
• Essential oils – promotes better oral health and fresh breath.

What we don’t like:

• Doesn’t fit old dispensers – the manufacturer recently changed their roll size, meaning new refill do not fit the old containers.

Buying guide

As a relatively new domain, it can sometimes be tricky to shop for zero-waste products. In the following sections, we’ll cover everything you need to know to buy zero-waste toothpaste that will look after your teeth and the planet at the same time.

What exactly is zero waste toothpaste?

Regular toothpaste tubes are impossible to recycle, as they are usually made of blended polymers, an unrecyclable type of plastic. Not to mention that these items are very small and contain remaining toothpaste, making them even harder to recycle.

Zero-waste toothpaste refers to toothpaste products that are packaged in materials that are either biodegradable, compostable, or reusable. For example, some products come in compostable pouches or in chewable tablets that have hardly any waste at all.

Either way, you won’t have to worry about the packaging sitting in landfill for hundreds of years or making its way to the ocean. Additionally, these products are often produced in eco-conscious ways, from the ingredients they use to how the toothpaste is made.

However, there is no official definition of terms like “zero-waste”, “eco” or “green”, so it is important not to take products bearing these words at face value. Do your research and check what attributes the product has that makes it environmentally-friendly.

What to look for in a zero waste toothpaste product

With the explosion of zero-waste and eco-friendly products in recent years, it is important to be discerning as an environmentally-conscious consumer. Packaging and contents can vary widely between products, so there are a few key things to check before you decide which zero-waste toothpaste to buy.

Ingredients

Unlike most traditional varieties, not all zero-waste toothpaste brands include fluoride in their products. So is fluoride essential in toothpaste?

This is a somewhat controversial question: traditionally, we have considered fluoride as a must-have in toothpaste. However,a growing movement believes that fluoride is not only unnecessary, but that too much may be bad for your health.

If in doubt, you should always consult your dentist and they’ll be able to tell you whether you need to prioritize fluoride as a toothpaste ingredient.

Like many other personal care products, some zero-waste toothpaste products contain palm oil, an ingredient that is infamous for its catastrophic impacts on the environment. If you want your toothpaste to be eco-friendly beyond just its waste level, you should check the ingredients list and avoid any containing palm oil.

Many zero-waste toothpastes also contain xylitol, an ingredient that is beneficial to human oral health in a number of ways. However, this component is extremely dangerous for dogs if swallowed, so if you buy a toothpaste containing xylitol, be sure to keep it out of reach of your furry friends.

Packaging

Obviously, packaging is critically important when it comes to zero-waste products. The product should come packed in materials that are sustainable or reusable.

Products like chewable toothpaste have virtually no waste at all, while other packaging may be compostable (meaning that it can quickly biodegrade), reusable or recyclable.

A typical type of reusable packaging used for zero-waste toothpaste is glass jars, which you can use for a variety of purposes once you’ve finished the toothpaste.

If you are buying toothpaste in recyclable packaging, this becomes a bit more complex. We’ll take a closer look at this next.

Recyclable

When looking to buy toothpaste that comes in recyclable packing it is important to delve a little deeper into what this means exactly. How easy is it to recycle? Will you be able to recycle it in practical terms?

If you’re planning to include it with your curbside recycling bin, it may be a good idea to check with your local authority that they accept this kind of waste and are able to recycle it. If the toothpaste comes in packaging that is virtually impossible for you to recycle (so you end up throwing it away), then it is not truly recyclable.

It is also important to consider the outer packaging the product comes in. For example, if you’re having it delivered, will the package arrive in single-use plastic or bubble wrap?

This is an important question to ask before placing any order online, unless it is otherwise stated.

Other considerations

When buying zero-waste toothpaste, one of your primary motivations will be to find a product that does not contribute to the world’s plastic waste problem. However, if you are looking to be more sustainable in your shopping habits, there are a few other things you should keep in mind:

• Look for products that are cruelty-free. This means they are not tested on animals.

• Check whether the product is vegan if you are living or moving towards a plant-based lifestyle.

• Make sure the toothpaste is palm-oil-free, for the reasons discussed above.

• Buy local whenever possible: you do not want to increase your carbon footprint by shipping items halfway across the world!

Final thoughts

Living a more sustainable life is all about small steps. There are many things we can do to protect the environment in the way we live and it is about making these changes one by one.

Some of the most impactful changes we can make are to take a closer look at the products we use every day and choose more sustainable options. When it comes to keeping our teeth clean, there are some fantastic, zero-waste products around these days, from toothpaste in reusable glass jars to tooth powder and compostable dental floss.

Could your friends and family benefit from learning more about zero-waste toothpaste? Go ahead and share this article on social media so we can work together to live more sustainable, eco-conscious lives.

In today’s post, we will make you familiar with zero-waste shampoos & conditioners, their benefits, and brands producing such nature-friendly products. 

Here’s how to switch to zero waste shampoo and conditioner.

The 6 Best Zero Waste Shampoos & Conditioners for 2025

1. Bossman Bar Soap

Bossman bar soap is among the top zero waste shampoo options for men. It is a 4-in-one bar soap that you can use as body wash, hair shampoo, beard shampoo, and shaving lubricant.

It is made using organic ingredients that include safflower oil, shea butter, palm oil, plantain leaf powder, and organic cocoa powder.

Moreover, it is free from all types of preservatives, chemicals.

With a blend of essential oils, the soap is made to rejuvenate your skin, hair, and beard. Your skin will feel more moisturized after using it.  

Features

• 4-in-one zero waste hair and beard shampoo
• Made using all-natural ingredients
• Cruelty-free, not tested on any animals
• Made to preserve your skin’s natural oil

2. Fresh Citrus Conditioner Bar

Fresh Citrus Conditioner bar by Clever Yoga is made for all hair types. If you want your hair to be thicker, frizz-free without causing any harm to mother nature, invest in this zero waste conditioner bar. Lightweight and small in size, the conditioner bar is ideal for travel.

Like traditional conditioner, the Fresh Citrus bar is not packaged in a plastic bottle that means zero plastic waste. This conditioner bar is handmade in the USA and is chemical and cruelty-free. It makes hair soft, shiny, and frizz-free.

The conditioner bar is made of 100% natural ingredients that include extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, cocoa butter, and jojoba oil. As the bar is concentrated, you will need only a tiny amount for every wash. A single bar can last up to 1 month

Features

• Reduces plastic use and waste
• Small but strong
• Ideal for all hair types
• Great for everyday use
• Free from chemicals and preservatives

3. Waste Free Products Natural Organic Shampoo Bar

Waste Free Products Natural Organic Shampoo Bar is a 100% eco-friendly shampoo that contains blends of natural oils and moisturizers. This zero-waste organic shampoo by Waste Free Products comes in compostable packing, making it both travel and environmentally friendly. 

Moreover, in comparison to regular shampoo, it can last up to three times longer. If you want to clean your scalp and hair without using any harsh chemicals, go for the Tangie Shampoo bar. After using this shampoo for the first time, your hair will feel different – in a good sense!

Features

• Comes in nature-friendly packaging (Biodegradable Cardboard)
• Free from chemicals such as sodium lauryl sulfate, phosphate, etc
• Lasts up to 70 washes
• No plastic waste

4. Shampoo Bar by The Yellow Bird

If your regular shampoo is doing more harm than good, it’s time to switch to shampoo made of natural and organic ingredients.

Shampoo bar shampoo by the Yellow Bird is one such good option. Made of kaolin clay, sea salt, and essential oils of rosemary, grapefruit, and lavender, this shampoo includes various minerals and vitamins. It is made especially for sensitive skin.

Rich in vitamin E, the shampoo bar makes your hair soft and shiny. Unlike regular shampoo, it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals, synthetic colors, and fragrance. Both men and women can use this bar as a body, face, and hair soap. It comes in a recyclable box, making it a true zero waste shampoo.

Features

• Eco-friendly shampoo for both men and women
• It includes sea salt and kaolin clay that eliminates unwanted buildup
• Made of natural oils
• Comes in eco-friendly packaging
• Travel-friendly

5. Bamboearth Shampoo Bar & Conditioner

Available in biodegradable packaging, this Bamboearth shampoo from Bamboearth is 100% organic and eco-friendly. These bars are made of all-natural ingredients such as essential oils and plant-based butter. It does not include any kind of artificial fragrance and color.

This cold-pressed shampoo bar restores your hair to its natural state. You will notice a positive difference in the way your hair feels after washing. Since it includes only natural ingredients, it is safe for people of all ages. The single pack contains 4 different essences: Chamomile, Lavender, Seaweed, Honey. Each pack lasts between 4 to 6 months. 

Speaking of Bamboearth, it is a well-known personal care brand that cares for mother nature. They say, “zero waste is our mission.” As a result, all their products are 100% metal and plastic-free. This zero-waste shampoo bar also comes in biodegradable packaging. 

Features

• Made of high-quality organic ingredients
• Comes in 100% biodegradable packaging
• Travel-friendly
• Does not contain any chemical or preservative

6. All-Natural Shampoo by J.R. Liggett

As the name indicates, All-Natural shampoo by J.R. Liggett is made of natural ingredients. Some of the key ingredients added into this shampoo include coconut oil, sunflower oil, peppermint, jojoba oil, and tea tree oil. 

This mild shampoo majorly includes essential oils and herbal blend. As a result, it is rich in vitamins and fatty acids that nourish the scalp. When used regularly, it promotes healthy hair growth and also adds shine to them.

What makes this shampoo from other options is that with this shampoo bar, you won’t need any conditioner.

The good thing is that people with allergies and sensitive skin can also use it. No matter whether your hair is straight, curly, or colored, you will find this product idea.

Features

• All-natural shampoo made without any synthetic oils, chemicals, and detergents
• Ideal for sensitive & allergenic skin
• Provides Long-lasting protection
• Handmade

What is Zero Waste Shampoo & Conditioner

The word “zero waste” is referred to principles that focus on the prevention of waste and encourage the redesign and reuse of products. A zero-waste shampoo or conditioner comes in environmentally-friendly packaging and is made of organic and natural products. 

Unlike regular shampoos, a zero-waste shampoo is free from plastic, preservatives, artificial fragrance oils, and synthetic colors that might cause skin dryness in the long run. 

Since zero waste shampoos and conditioners contain only natural ingredients such as plant extracts and natural essential oils, and they boost shine and moisture your scalp.

Benefits of Zero Waste Shampoos and Conditioners

Here are a few reasons why you should consider zero waste shampoo and condition.

1. Plastic-Free & Environmentally- Friendly

One of the most significant advantages of zero waste shampoos and conditioners are, they come either package-free or in metal or biodegradable containers.

Plastic and its byproducts are polluting our environment and contributing to numerous health issues. As a result, we must cut down the use of plastic in our day-to-day life.

Although governments and other responsible authorities are making efforts toward reducing plastic footprint, it’s not adequate. We all should look for ways to reduce our plastic waste. 

Fortunately, some manufacturers have started making cruelty free, natural, and environmentally-friendly products. If we can’t do anything for nature, at least we can use those products.

So, if you feel bad about using plastic, replace your regular shampoo with these natural and zero waste shampoos.

2. Good for Your Scalp

As mentioned above, zero waste shampoo and conditioner bars are all-natural, vegan, and cruelty-free; they are as good for your hair as for the environment.

It is worth-mentioning that shampoos and conditioners made of plant extracts and natural essential oils are scientifically proven to be good for your skin.

3. Travel-Friendly

If you travel with shampoo bottles frequently, you might have come across the situation when your shampoo bottle left you with a sticky mess. Well, this not the issue with zero-waste shampoos and conditioners.

Now you know the benefits of zero waste shampoo and conditioner bars, let’s have a quick look at their market size. 

See Related: Advantages of Going Green and Sustainable

Zero Waste Shampoo Market Size

In 2018, the global market for zero waste shampoo was worth $101.78 million (USD), And it is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 7.18% between the period from 2019 to 2025.

Due to an increase in demand for eco-friendly products and packaging, we can expect that more manufacturers will jump into the zero waste shampoo market in the coming years.

Already, numerous reputable brands are making biodegradable, vegan, and ocean-friendly shampoos and conditioners. 

Below, we have put together a list of some of them.

Top Zero Waste Shampoo & Conditioner Brands 

Here are the best zero waste shampoo and conditioner options to consider.

1. Ethique

Originally, founded in the year 2012 in Christchurch, New Zealand as Sorbet, Ethique is today one of the most reputable personal care brands in the world producing cruelty-free, organic, vegan, and zero waste personal care waste products. 

The founder, Brianne West, who is a biologist, started this brand to eliminate plastic waste.

She began making zero waste conditioner and shampoo bars in her kitchen with a mission to minimize the number of plastic conditioners and shampoo bottles.

According to West, her company has stopped more than 6 million shampoo or plastic bottles ending up in dumps.

So, if you want to give up plastic bottles, you can go for their personal care product that includes zero waste shampoo bars, conditioners, deodorants, body cleansers, etc. 

Ethique is also a B-corp certified brand that means you can trust them blindfolded. They also donate 2% of revenue to charity.

2. Aspen Kay Naturals

Based in Clearwater, Florida, United States, Aspen Kay Naturals makes organic and environmentally friendly personal care products. Talking about their hair care products, it includes shampoo and conditioner bars. 

Their handmade natural shampoo and conditioner are made using the cold-press method. Therefore, ingredients used in their bars retain their aroma, flavor, and nutritional value for a long time.

All of their soaps are certified made using organic shea butter, extra virgin olive oil, sustainable palm oil, organic sunflower oil

Unlike regular brands, their shampoos and conditioners are naturally colored. They take their colors from herb extracts, natural mineral pigments, and clays.

3. Sea & Clean

Came into existence in late 2015, Sea and Clean is another popular brand that makes zero waste shampoo and conditioners. All their bars are wrapped in recycled paper. Not only are their products nature-friendly but also safe to be used on all skin types. 

They use herbs, essential oils, seeds, pure oils, fruit, flowers, and vegetables in all their products. Some of their bars even use a blend of dead sea mud and beer.

In the beginning, the company used to make natural laundry detergent and fabric softener, today they produce a wide range of personal cleaning products.

However, their shampoo and conditioner bars are exceptionally popular in the US market. 

Apart from these brands, there are a few more companies that have made their unique identity in the zero waste shampoo and conditioner industry.

For your convenience, below we have accumulated some of the top-selling zero waste shampoo and conditioners.

Conclusion on Zero Waste Shampoo

Want to keep your hair healthy and shiny without any guilt of harming the environment? Consider these zero waste shampoo and conditioner options. Not only they come in nature-friendly packaging, but they are also chemical-free. 

All the shampoos and conditioners mentioned in this post are popular and have been used by millions of people across the globe.