The Truth About “Zero Waste”: Why It’s a Journey, Not a Destination

Zero waste sounds pretty intense, doesn’t it? It seems like something only people living in small homes, making their own toothpaste and fitting a year’s worth of trash in a jar can pull off. 

But, here’s the truth: zero waste is not about perfection. It’s about intention. At Bare Necessities, we believe, zero waste living is a journey, not a finish line. And, we’re walking along with you. 

What is Zero Waste? 

The term “zero waste” is often misunderstood. At its core, it’s about minimising what ends up in landfills, reducing what we consume, reusing what we can, and thoughtfully recycling. It’s a framework for living more mindfully. It’s not an all or nothing way of living. 

One doesn’t have to be absolutely perfect to make a difference. Small swaps, tiny habits and conscious choices. All of these are the real heroes of zero waste living.

Progress Over Perfection 

We’d like to let you in on a little secret. We’re not 100% there either. We still face challenges such as sourcing truly compostable packaging, finding packaging that does not compromise the quality of the product, ensuring accessibility and balancing cost with sustainability. 

At the end of the day, every single product we create, whether it’s a shampoo bar or a lip balm, is made with careful consideration and a conscious desire to reduce harm. 

Over the years, we have innovated with compostable sachets, strengthened our glass jars and promoted our refill options. Through it all, we’re constantly learning, tweaking and improving. It’s about doing better every day.

The Journey Counts

The beauty of seeing zero waste as a journey is that it becomes inclusive. Whether you’re just getting started with carrying a reusable water bottle, or you’ve already swapped to solid shampoo bars and composted your last toothbrush, you’re part of the movement to do better.

We’re here to meet you wherever you are in your journey. Shared steps and solutions towards something better.

Our Zero Waste Journey

• Zero Waste Packaging: From reusable tins and compostable wraps to refillable jars, we choose low impact options for all our packaging 

• Transparency: All our product ingredients are shared publicly on our website to allow you to make an informed decision. We share both our wins and pains too. When you cork sealed jars had issues, we heard you and adapted with upgraded, long lasting glass dispensers

• Community Impact: We train and employ women from underserved communities, creating a ripple of sustainable through people too 

• Education First: Through our workshops, talks, online courses, blog, Instagram post and product label, we aim to inform. Awareness is the first step towards action

Zero Waste is a daily choice, a reminder that every action, however small, has an impact. It’s dynamic and ever evolving, bringing together more components into it’s fold every day. 

So whether you’re on your first eco step or the fiftieth, you’re doing great. We’re right here, cheering you on, along the way!