Amidst fast fashion and rapid consumption trends, textile waste has become a global environmental challenge, with Canada being no exception. The impact of this issue is far-reaching, affecting our environment, economy, and communities. In this blog post, we'll delve into the depths of textile waste, exploring its global and Canadian dimensions and shedding light on how Ardent Earth is contributing to the solution.
Textile waste is undeniably a worldwide concern, with the fashion industry contributing significantly to the problem. In Canada alone, approximately 37 kilograms (81 pounds) of textiles per person find their way into landfills each year, creating a staggering environmental footprint. Globally, the situation is dire, as the fashion industry is responsible for about 92 million tons of textile waste annually.
Fortunately, recycling textiles is becoming an increasingly viable solution. In Canada, various organizations aim to divert textiles from landfills, such as Viking Recycling and Fabcycle.
Despite recycling efforts, a significant portion of textile waste still ends up in landfills. This not only occupies valuable space but the slow decomposition of synthetic fibers also releases harmful emissions, contributing to pollution and climate change.
From environmental degradation due to landfill accumulation to the ethical implications of exploitative labor in fast fashion, textile waste leaves no facet of society untouched. Vulnerable communities, particularly in developing countries, often bear the brunt of the environmental and social impacts.
At Ardent Earth, I’ve embarked on a mission to transform textile waste. Through my upcycled coffee sack creations, I breathe new life into discarded materials. By repurposing coffee sacks and deadstock fabric into stylish and functional items, I help reduce the demand for new fabrics and contribute to a circular economy. My commitment extends beyond products; I aim to inspire conscious consumerism and raise awareness about the environmental impact of textile waste.
Textile waste is indeed a global issue, but through innovative approaches like Ardent Earth's upcycling initiatives, we can weave a new story—one that values sustainability, creativity, and a harmonious relationship with our planet.
In an age where environmental concerns are at the forefront of global discussions, upcycling has emerged as a powerful tool to combat waste, reduce environmental impact, and promote sustainability. As a brand dedicated to eco-conscious living, Ardent Earth has taken significant steps towards this mission with our innovative upcycled collection. In this blog post, we will explore how upcycling helps the environment and how Ardent Earth's upcycled collection plays a vital role in this eco-friendly revolution.
Upcycling is a creative process that involves transforming discarded or unused materials into products of higher value. Unlike recycling, which breaks down materials to create new ones, upcycling seeks to breathe new life into existing items. By doing so, it extends the lifespan of these materials and reduces the need to produce new resources.
One of the most significant advantages of upcycling is its potential to reduce waste and alleviate the burden on landfills. The fashion industry alone generates a staggering amount of textile waste every year, with much of it ending up in landfills. Ardent Earth addresses this issue head-on by repurposing materials like coffee sacks and deadstock fabrics, diverting them from a landfill fate.
Upcycling also contributes to the conservation of valuable resources. Traditional manufacturing processes often require the extraction of natural resources and the consumption of energy. By upcycling materials, we significantly decrease the demand for these resources and the associated carbon footprint. Ardent Earth's commitment to using upcycled materials not only conserves resources but also reduces the environmental impact of its products.
The upcycling process typically requires less energy compared to manufacturing new materials from scratch. It also reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with resource extraction, transportation, and production. Ardent Earth's upcycled collection, which includes items like market totes and dish scrubbers, is a testament to how sustainable practices can lead to a cleaner, greener planet.
Upcycling beautifully intertwines with the principles of the circular economy; a sustainable approach aiming to reduce waste and maximize resource use. Unlike the traditional linear model, which ends in disposal, the circular economy keeps products and materials in use for as long as possible. By embracing upcycling and the circular economy, Ardent Earth showcases how innovative thinking can result in beautiful, functional items that benefit both people and the planet, inspiring conscious consumer choices and sustainable practices.
In a world marked by fast fashion and disposable products, upcycling encourages consumers to rethink their buying habits. Ardent Earth's upcycled collection exemplifies the notion that sustainable living can be stylish and practical. By choosing upcycled products, consumers not only support environmental initiatives but also promote a shift towards sustainable consumerism.
Upcycling is more than just a trendy buzzword; it's a practical and effective approach to environmental conservation. Ardent Earth's upcycled collection is a shining example of how businesses can make a positive impact on the planet by repurposing materials and reducing waste. Through our commitment to sustainability, Ardent Earth is not only providing eco-friendly products but also inspiring a community of conscious consumers. By choosing upcycled products, we all play a part in preserving the environment for future generations.
In today's world, where sustainability is gaining increasing importance, eco-friendly products have become popular choices for environmentally conscious individuals. However, a crucial question remains: Are these products truly as eco-friendly as they claim to be? At Ardent Earth, we believe in transparency and integrity, which is why we want to address this important topic. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of eco-friendly products and explore what it means for a product to be genuinely eco-friendly.
]]>In today's world, where sustainability is gaining increasing importance, eco-friendly products have become popular choices for environmentally conscious individuals. However, a crucial question remains: Are these products truly as eco-friendly as they claim to be? At Ardent Earth, we believe in transparency and integrity, which is why we want to address this important topic. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of eco-friendly products and explore what it means for a product to be genuinely eco-friendly.
To evaluate the eco-friendliness of a product, we must first understand its core principles. Eco-friendly products are designed to minimize their environmental impact throughout their entire life cycle, from production to disposal. These products aim to conserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable practices. However, it's essential to recognize that no product is entirely free from environmental consequences. The goal is to make choices that prioritize the least harmful impact on our planet.
Unfortunately, not all products labeled as "eco-friendly" live up to their claims. This brings us to the issue of greenwashing, where companies employ misleading marketing tactics to present their products as more environmentally friendly than they are. Greenwashing can make it challenging for consumers to discern genuinely eco-friendly products from those that are merely paying lip service to sustainability.
Evaluating the materials used and the production processes employed is crucial in determining the eco-friendliness of a product. Sustainable materials, such as organic or upcycled materials, are preferred over non-renewable resources. Additionally, the production process should minimize energy consumption, reduce emissions, and prioritize ethical manufacturing practices.
Packaging plays a significant role in the eco-friendliness of a product. Opting for minimal or plastic-free packaging is ideal. Recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable packaging materials are also great options.
The lifespan of a product is essential in assessing its eco-friendliness. Products that are durable, long-lasting, and designed for reuse or repair contribute less to waste generation. Choosing high-quality products that withstand the test of time helps reduce the overall environmental impact.
Considering the product's end-of-life is crucial. Eco-friendly products should be designed to be easily recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable. Responsible disposal options should be readily available to ensure the product's environmental impact is minimized even after its useful life.
Certifications and eco-labels can provide helpful guidance when determining the eco-friendliness of a product. Look for reputable certifications such as USDA Organic, Canada Organic, Leaping Bunny, PETA, CertClean, EcoCert or Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). These certifications verify that the product meets specific environmental and social standards, providing consumers with confidence in their choices.
At Ardent Earth, we understand the importance of scrutinizing eco-friendly claims. We carefully curate our product offerings, ensuring they align with our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. You can shop with ease knowing that all our products are vegan, cruelty-free, low waste, BPA-free, synthetic fragrance-free, paraben-free, and ethically sourced. We prioritize transparency, providing detailed information about the materials and packaging of our products. By selecting brands and products that adhere to stringent environmental standards, we strive to offer genuine eco-friendly alternatives that make a positive impact.
While the term "eco-friendly" has become ubiquitous, it's essential to critically evaluate the eco-friendliness of products. Understanding the materials used, production processes, packaging choices, durability, and end-of-life considerations are key in making informed decisions. By choosing products that prioritize sustainability and meet reputable certifications, we can contribute to a greener future. At Ardent Earth, we are committed to providing products that not only meet these criteria but also promote transparency and integrity. Together, let's navigate the world of eco-friendly products with clarity and make choices that truly benefit the planet we call home.
Spring’s warmer weather brings thoughts of renewal and new beginnings. Purging items that no longer serve, organizing household clutter, and developing new eco-friendly habits are just some of the ways I like to usher in the change of season. Remember, going green is less about perfection, and more about making small adjustments over time. I’ve personally found these three simple swaps are a great way to start any sustainable journey, particularly if you’re concerned about ditching toxic household chemicals and single-use plastics.
As someone with multiple chemical sensitivity and atopic dermatitis, I find that most commercial cleaners trigger asthma, migraine, and skin reactions. While anyone can make a simple 1:1 vinegar and water mixture for a food-safe kitchen and bathroom spray, sometimes you need a product that packs a little more punch. For me, that was the All Purpose Cleaner from The Bare Home.
Ingredients: Aqua, Alkoxylated Fatty Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, C9-11 Pareth-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Organic Leptospermum Petersonii (Lemon Tea Tree) leaf Oil.
Doing more with less by finding a great all-purpose cleanser to tackle multiple areas of the home saves not only money, but reduces the chemical footprint returning to our environment.
Because the average family uses around two rolls of paper towels per week, it's no wonder that paper waste is quickly overwhelming our waste sites. American company, Recyclenation, reported around 254 million tons of paper-towel trash goes straight into the landfill a year, and that number has only grown since 2009. Reusable Paperless Towels made from cotton (or terry cloth) offer great alternatives to single-use products. They’re just as equipped to take on your toughest stains and spills without any risk of shredding. Ours are handmade from 100% cotton deadstock fabric, and come in an array of colours and designs. The best part? They go right in the wash afterwards, saving money you would have spent on paper towels, but also reducing the amount of trash produced on a weekly basis.
Zero-waste scrub brushes, sponge cloths, dish scrubbers, and non-toxic dish soaps are great green substitutes as well. Not ready to make the switch to fully sustainable cleaning? Try using up what you have on hand first, such as repurposing old toothbrushes, or upcycling flannel bed sheets into reusable cloths. Any of these options will help keep unwanted textile and paper waste out of our environment.
Charities and drop off centers are a good start, but they aren’t always the answer. A lot of second hand stores get overwhelmed in Spring, especially with people purging their closets and garages. Instead of risking those items going into the trash, I’m a big fan of using buy-nothing groups and second-hand marketplaces such as Bunz, Poshmark, and Facebook Marketplace. I’m happy knowing my unwanted items are going where they’re genuinely appreciated, plus it always feels great to make local community connections.
Sadly, around 80 to 90 percent of existing clothing isn’t being resold in Canada. Many charities running clothing boxes can only resell about half of what they collect, and half of that still actually sells to the public. Because charities like the Salvation Army are so popular, their second-hand items only have around 4 weeks to sell before they’re replaced by incoming donations. While for profit companies like Value Village do agree to take some of the unsold load, only around a quarter of that is publicly sold. The rest ends up in a landfill, meaning only around three-quarters of donated clothing actually ever finds a second home.
If you’re local to Toronto, and buy-nothing groups aren’t for you, an alternative drop off site for your gently used clothing is CAMH. CAMH - Suits me fine is a free clothing store designed to equip disadvantaged job seekers with appropriate business, court and special events attire. For non-business clothing, Double Take is a great alternative thrift store option who actively support local artists, and give back to our community through second-hand sales. They’re parented by the Yonge Street Mission.
However you decide to refresh your space this spring, I hope these suggestions will inspire you to make eco-friendly choices and help greenify your space. Did you enjoy this article? Let me know in the comments what your favourite green spring cleaning tip is, and what your plans are to reduce impacts on our environment in 2023.
In 2018, I made a tote bag out of a coffee sack I received on BUNZ (a trading app). I didn’t think much of it at the time. Running my hands over the textured cloth, I remember thinking that “jute” (the plant where burlap, hessian and gunny cloth come from) is a completely biodegradable natural fibre, used in almost as many items as cotton, yet we don’t see it used much in fashion. Even though the image of a burlap bag swinging from an arm at a farmer’s market seemed really cute, I wasn’t aiming to design anything particularly trendy. My first coffee tote was a simple two-strapped midsize, lined with whatever extra fabric I had on hand. Surprisingly, friends and family loved the idea. With every exchange, feedback on my bags was warm and encouraging. People kept asking to see more of what I had to offer, and were curious about what new designs I had. They loved knowing I was upcycling textiles destined for landfill into something beautiful. So I started thinking - What else can I do with this fabric?
If you’re a maker, then you know balancing supply and demand can be tricky. Coffee sacks are a super durable material to work with, and while branded with fun, unique designs, can be kind of tricky to get your hands on due to being single-use. Unfortunately, Canada doesn’t have a standardized process when it comes to sorting the textiles we send to landfill. When the University of Waterloo teamed up with Seneca College this year to publish Textile waste in Ontario, Canada: Opportunities for reuse and recycling, they discovered that Canadians toss away close to 500 million kilograms of fabric items each year. Since my tote bags did so well with close friends, I thought branching out to my local community would be a great next step. That success inspired me to turn discarded coffee sacks into a whole line of household items such as our eco-friendly dish scrubbers, storage pouches, laundry hampers, floor pillows, and of course, my best selling coffee sack baskets.
Before any of that though, I had to get my hands on more burlap. I met Sam James, from Sam James Coffee Bar in Toronto in 2019. My sister Elektra, owner of Morning Parade Coffee, was kind enough to introduce us. I explained to Sam that I was interested in reusing the coffee sacks he no longer needed, hoping to combine them with deadstock fabric from my contact at Fabcycle in BC to use as liner for the inside. He thought that was a great idea. Sam’s always been super friendly, and I really enjoy working together with him. I’m thankful to my sister for setting us up.
Out of everything I’ve made from burlap so far, I like my zero-waste coffee sack baskets the best. Practical as they are stylish, customers use my lightweight sacks for everything from bread and fruit baskets in their kitchens, to stylish plant pots, craft supply caddies, bathroom storage, and more. For those of us that love the cottagecore aesthetic, burlap accents are key to drawing out the cozy, warm comforts of home. I love knowing I’m helping people achieve that, as well as keeping unwanted items from landfill. Being part of a circular economy, where low-waste sustainable living solutions are not only welcomed but celebrated, is immensely fulfilling work.
Thank you for being with me on this journey of my upcycling story. I’d love to hear any suggestions on what you’d like to see next!
You’re holding the black plastic container from last night’s takeout. It’s been rinsed clean, the recycle symbol on the bottom of the package reminds you of what you should be doing next, but can it go into your blue bin? The answer might surprise you.
According to the Government of Canada, Canadians throw away over 3 million tonnes of plastic waste every year. With only 9% being currently recycled, the rest goes directly into our dumpsters, landfills, greenspaces, and lakes. As these plastics break down into microplastics, they’re absorbed by local plants and wildlife, ultimately ending back onto our plate and into our bodies as science is now discovering.
If you’ve ever heard the expression, “you are what you eat”, the plastic problem in Canada is a prime example. By taking the time to properly recycle our used goods into new materials, you’re helping to keep plastic out of the environment, as well as reducing Canada’s overall energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. So yes, we really should recycle.
In Becoming a Compost Champion, we talked about how The City of Toronto offers no fees for blue bin collections in order to incentivize businesses and landlords to reduce their solid waste collection fees.
After your blue bin is emptied, the City collects all the recycling and brings it to one of their many transfer stations where it’s sorted and sent to a material recovery facility. Green for Life Environmental Inc., a waste collection company, owns this contract. From there, rubbish is sorted into different groups (plastic, paper, aluminum or glass) using belts, conveyors, screens, magnets, optic and AI systems. All waste disposal is bound and sold to re-processors so that they can be made into something else. Roughly 86% of material from Toronto’s blue bin program goes to markets inside of Canada and the U.S, with the remaining 14% going overseas through reputable brokers.
Now that we have a general idea of what happens to our junk, following these three recycling tips can also help to avoid contamination at the waste management facility. Remember, if we don’t learn to recycle correctly, we risk breaking or jamming machines at the factory, possible injury to workers, and introducing contaminants into the system. If a batch is deemed too contaminated at the plant, it simply goes to landfill, defeating the purpose of recovering materials in the first place.
Remember, not all products with a recycling symbol ♻ printed on the bottom can go directly into the blue bin. As Greencompostables.com explains, the mobius loop (recycle symbol) identifies what percentage of the current material is made of recyclable plastic, not if it can be recycled. If the symbol has a number, (1-7) this tells us the plastic-resin compound of the item, while any letters present let us know the plastic chemical type. Where possible, try to avoid purchasing single use items, especially single use plastics. That way there’s no confusion around whether or not it goes in the blue bin afterwards.
Ardent Earth carries several green alternatives to everyday household items, including All Purpose Cleaner, Toothpaste Tablets, and Deodorant. All packaging of which can be recycled fully.
When we choose to convert waste back into raw materials, it extends the item’s overall usefulness. If we don’t recycle properly, then we can’t benefit from the rewards. Despite best efforts, these 5 recycling mistakes are still pretty common in Toronto:
We hope that helps! If you ever get stuck, don’t forget the Waste Wizard can help you sort your recycling properly.
You’re already doing better than you think. Have a look at the chart below, put together by The City of Toronto. It’s a great guide to get started.
*Note: all black and/or compostable plastic goes in the garbage.
*Place pieces smaller than a business card in envelope or add to bag of shredded paper.
*Note: Food/drink packaging must be empty and rinsed (otherwise, placed in the garbage). Black foam items and pieces smaller than 10 cm (4″) x 10 cm (4″) go in the garbage).
Unfortunately, the items listed below cannot be placed in the blue bin. While some companies do make “compostable” plastics, they actually belong in your garbage instead. This is because Toronto’s composting program was designed to handle food waste and select fibre/paper products using an anaerobic digestion process. Even though biodegradable plastics will break down under certain conditions, each product requires its own unique environment to do so, not all of which can be met by Ontario’s recycling or green bin process. If your item is large, hazardous or toxic, your local Drop Off Depot is likely the best spot to get rid of it.
We’ve all heard it, that familiar ring-ting-ting of holiday music streaming from every retail-shop since the end of Halloween. As the days grow shorter, and the weather gets colder, we’re reminded December’s around the corner, and staying mindful around unwanted food, gifts, and seasonal waste can be challenging.
According to research by Vancouver-based non-profit Zero Waste Canada, Canadians throw out around 50 kilograms of garbage each December - a staggering 25% more compared to the rest of the year! Because items like glitter and foil gift wrap, clear cellotape, and plastic coated gift bags can’t be recycled, they contribute to an overwhelming 540,000 tonnes of landfill waste that could be easily avoided with a few eco-friendly swaps and simple ideas.
With a lot of gift-wrapping designed for single use, it’s no surprise that many of their laminates, dyes, and flashy metallic materials can’t be recycled. (That includes gift bags with shiny, or plastic coatings!) To avoid holiday packaging ending up in the bin, consider presenting your gifts inside of upcycled satin gift bags, glass mason jars, trendy fabric wraps, or reusable baskets. By using alternatives to commercial packaging, it increases the likelihood your items will be used again, and again, without deterring from a joyful unwrapping experience.
Did you know around 2,259,000 tonnes of paper is produced for printing in Canada? To reduce the seasonal strain on our forests, it may be time to look at what we’ve already got on our shelves before reaching for something new. Old newspapers, magazines, maps, comic book pages (even marketing fliers!) can provide eye-catching, easily recyclable wrapping solutions. For a compost-friendly solution to cellotape, consider sealing your gifts with expressive and fun Japanese washi tape, paper twine or natural-fiber string.
Imagine delighting your loved ones by designing your own wrapping paper using brown-paper scraps and vegetable-based paint! Finally use up the ends of those old plant-based candles by stamping parcels with a custom wax seal. Add some seasonal zhuzh by cutting and drying sprigs of pine, flowers or fruit. However you want to express yourself, handmade gifts from the heart are sure to be noticed and leave a lasting impression. Most of all, don’t forget to share the love! By challenging your friends and community to take part in creative, eco-friendly wrapping solutions, you’re inspiring the change that fights to keep our planet healthy all year round.
We hope you liked our article. Tag @ardentearthstore on Instagram with your favourite zero-waste wrapping solution to be featured on our page.
We’ve all been there: Hesitating in front of the kitchen trash, rubbish in hand, unsure if what we’re holding belongs in the garbage, recycling, or green bin. It’s easy to make a mistake, and for those of us keen on combating climate change, it can also come with a hefty dose of anxiety. With Composting Day approaching May 29th, how can we ensure we’re doing our best to minimize our environmental impact by becoming compost champions?
While not every living situation allows for organic waste programs at their residence, the City of Toronto has been steadily working to reduce unnecessary landfill waste by placing fees on most condo and apartment property owners based on how much garbage a building generates per number of units. By offering no fee for blue bin recycling and green bin collections, these costs aim to incentivize landlords to help by reducing their solid waste collection fees. If you haven’t yet received your green bin delivery, please encourage your building owner or property management company to phone 311, or submit an order for your building via the City of Toronto website.
If you’re lucky enough to own your own home, Toronto homeowners have a few options when it comes to composting. Whether you choose to process your kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich soil to use in your personal home garden, or use a green bin for standard City collection, homeowners can also do their part to reduce landfill waste.
So what items go in the green bin? Keep it simple by starting with browns and greens. Kitchen scraps, biodegradable home items, and yard waste go a long way toward reducing our landfill impact. Some examples might look like:
*if items are soiled with chemicals such as cleaning products, or are waxed, parchment, or plastic coated, place in the garbage bin instead.
Sorting becomes a little easier when considering what you want to achieve. Ideally, we want to return anything biodegradable to the earth, so that we can continue to grow what we need again, and again. Whether fresh, frozen, dried, prepared, cooked or spoiled, kitchen food waste belongs in the green bin. For home and yard waste, be mindful to only compost items that are free from harmful chemicals, waxes, and plastics. If an item can’t be broken down easily by nature and the elements, or is toxic in some form, you probably wouldn’t want it in your garden. That's a great rule of thumb to compost by.
Here’s some examples of what not to place in the green bin:
While some companies make “compostable” plastics, they actually belong in the trash instead of your green bin. This is because the City of Toronto’s food waste program was designed to handle food waste and select fibre/paper products using an anaerobic digestion process. Even though biodegradable plastics will break down under certain conditions, each product requires its own unique environment to do so, not all of which can be met by this process. When a plastic refuses to break down completely, tiny microplastics leach into and contaminate nearby soil, water, and other recycling streams. As compost champions, we’re aiming to be as plastic free as possible, so it’s best to place these items directly in the trash or return the product to retailers or manufacturers that offer take-back programs.
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But what about lining the green bin? Isn’t that plastic? The truth about liners is, whether they’re plastic or biodegradable, they’re going to be removed before processing which makes having one a little pointless. If you’re concerned about having a dirty bin, feel free to skip the bag entirely and wash the inside of your organics container with an all purpose cleaner and paperless towels or scrub brush.
Ardent Earth cares deeply about the environment, and we’re glad you do too. If you want to start making your own compost at home, but don’t have a backyard, try using an Urban Composter instead. Any way that you choose to be a compost champion, know that your contributions are going a long way to helping fight climate change and keep our planet healthy.
We hope you liked our article. Please share some of your favourite composting tips below.
Do you want to throw a zero-waste or low waste party but you're not sure how? Follow these easy tips that will help you reduce waste without reducing the fun.
Earth Day is widely recognized as the largest secular observance in the world, marked by more than a billion people every year as a day of action to change human behavior and create global, national and local policy changes. That sure is something to celebrate! So, why not throw an Earth-friendly party for Earth Day?
Of course, a party wouldn’t be appropriate for Earth Day if it didn’t take waste into consideration. Often, people rely on many single-use items when entertaining. Think about it: disposable cups, straws, and plates; plastic balloons and disposable décor; pre-packaged snacks and drinks. The trash can really add up! I’m here to show you how you can easily throw a low waste party with reusables, some DIY, and the circular economy.
First, make sure to swap disposable plates and napkins for the real thing. This can either be your everyday tableware, or you can assemble a set of thrift store finds that you use just for parties. If you’re investing in throwing a party, invest in hosting and cleaning up responsibly.
Choosing homemade and package-free snacks is also a great way to reduce party waste. Check out these simple swaps:
Instead of picking up a bunch of single serving beverages, make a big batch of something and serve it from a pitcher or dispenser. I made an herbal iced tea, but other great ideas include punch, lemonade, or sangria.
Ditch those ubiquitous disposable red cups in favour of reusables. I’ve collected several second-hand mason jars on the BUNZ trading app that are perfect as party glasses. You can also often find mason jars at your local thrift shop. Of course, you’ll also want to add reusable straws, which add a fun pop of colour as well as help guests identify their glass.
There’s no need to buy a bunch of new décor for every party, especially themed décor that you’ll likely never use again. Using my local Buy Nothing group, I was able to borrow two globes from a neighbour. Using the BUNZ trading app, I got a road map of Ontario and made some DIY bunting (here’s a tutorial).
Not only are plants a very appropriate decoration for Earth Day, plants and flowers make excellent décor for any party. And you get to enjoy them long afterward! Plants look especially good in our upcycled coffee sack baskets, as shown.
A photo booth makes a fun addition to any party. I used some photo booth props saved from a previous party, and guests could use any party décor as a prop as well.
Do you usually send guests home with a favour or goodie bag? Do these things typically get thrown away? Here are a couple of sustainable options that are sure to please any guest. Give each guest a reusable snack bag and let them fill it with leftover party snacks. Or send your guests home with their mason jar and reusable straw. Both options are not only useful, but they help reduce waste and clean up for you!
If you’re looking specifically for an Earth-focused activity, try your hand at making seed bombs, or leading guests in a litter cleanup in your neighbourhood.
It is Earth Day after all, so why not share an important environmental cause with your guests? I chose to share information about the Plant Based Treaty with a QR code for guests to endorse if they wanted to. You could also share a petition or collect donations for a charitable organization.
This is another area that can be super wasteful. Paper towels and plastic sponges? No thanks! I like to keep a spool of paperless towels handy to wipe up any spills during the party (and all the time). Dishes get washed with an upcycled dish scrubber and solid dish soap bar. Then, the dish scrubber, paperless towels, and cloth napkins can all go in the washing machine. Done!
I hope you enjoyed this post and got some ideas to help you reduce waste at your next gathering.
Is the health of your family impacted by the health of your household cleaners? As someone with multiple chemical sensitivity and atopic dermatitis, I find that most readily available cleaners trigger asthma, migraine, and skin reactions. Their irritating ingredients can also have a harmful impact on the environment. On top of that, most cleaners come in single-use plastic bottles.
In this blog post, we’ll show you you how to make a non-toxic, low waste, all-purpose cleaner that couldn’t be easier. But first, let's take compare the ingredients in a popular household cleaner to the ingredients used in my recipe.
LYSOL Complete Clean All Purpose Cleaner ingredients:
Alkyl Dimethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chlorides (C12-16), Alkyl Dimethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chlorides (C12 67% C14 25% C16 7% C8-C10-C18 1%), Ethanolamine, Fragrance, Fd&C Yellow No. 5 (Ci 19140, Nonanal, Octanal, Decanal, Dipropylene Glycol Butyl Ether, Lauramine Oxide, Decyl Alcohol, 2-Methylundecanal, Water
The Environmental Working Group gives this cleaner, and others like it, a score of D - HIGH CONCERN: Likely hazards to health or the environment. May also have poor ingredient disclosure. View their full report here. You can also search EWG for your current household cleaner to see how it stacks up.
Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Soap ingredients:
Water, Organic Coconut Oil, Potassium Hydroxide, Organic Palm Kernel Oil, Organic Olive Oil, Organic Hemp Seed Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Citric Acid, Tocopherol
The Environmental Working Group scores castile soap with A - LOWEST CONCERN: Few/no known or suspected hazards to health or the environment. Good ingredient disclosure. View their full report here.
Make this non-toxic, low waste, all-purpose cleaner today and be done with worrying about harsh chemicals or allergic reactions waiting in your cabinets. I like to get my castile soap at my local refill shop, but you can also find Dr. Bronner's online, here. One 32oz bottle will make this recipe 43 times!
Ingredients:
Method:
Add all ingredients to a clean, reusable and/or reused spray bottle and shake gently. Spray any hard surface and wipe with one of our paperless towels. Recipe can be easily doubled for a larger spray bottle.
* Distilled water is recommended. Tap water should only be used if you will use all of the cleaner within one week.
** If you are allergic to tea tree oil, substitute your favourite essential oil or omit entirely.
A deceiving practice to spin companies and products as "green" and eco-friendly, more than they actually are in reality. It's considered a misleading marketing tactic that works by appealing to customers who want to be more environmentally-sound.
Recent years have seen consumers more environmentally-conscious about their purchases. Marketing products as "green" is a way for companies to jump on the trend, without actually changing most (if any) of their business practices.
Agencies all over the world have been lax in their stance against greenwashing, with the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) only being updated in 2010 to address "scammy" marketing practices.
Buzzwords like "green" and "all-natural" are easy to use and poorly regulated, as are "green"-evoking images in packaging. Instead, research on parent companies and values to see if a business is transparent about its practices. The more specific they are about what they're doing, the less likely they are to be greenwashed.
Learn more about Ardent Earth here.
Sources: Medium, Disruptive Design, One Green Planet, Business News Daily, Our Changing Climate.
*these findings are based on my personal experience and opinion only.*
Let's talk about lint! As someone with two mostly white cats and a largely black wardrobe, I've been on the hunt for a zero waste lint brush for years! I used to use those sticky disposable roller sheets. They worked great, but the waste was too much, I just couldn't throw out another sticky sheet. There has to be a good reusable option out there, right?!
I have tried and tested a variety of the reusable lint brush and pilling remover options out there so you don't have to! None of them are quite like that sticky roller, but I'll tell you what each one can do. While I've tried each of these on several fabric types, today I'm showing you how they do on an apron that tends to get both lint and pilling.
Description: A classic. Your parents might have one like this. They often have a plastic handle and a red fabric brush on both sides, with directional arrows.
My experience: This lint brush is most suitable for lint and pet hair, not pilling, and it mostly gets the job done. You have to be diligent in cleaning it out for it to be most effective, and I find it struggles with stretchy fabrics unless you can pull them taut. My fabric brush area also has a habit of popping out of the plastic frame, which is pretty inconvenient.
Score: 7/10
Description: A wooden handle with natural rubber bristles that supposedly attracts lint with static electricity, which can then be rinsed away.
My experience: This did not work for me. At most it bundled the lint up so I could pick it off my clothing by hand. Not suitable for heavier jobs either. I had high hopes for this one...
Score: 1/10
Description: Internet sensation. You've seen the ads. This metal rake can supposedly remove lint, pilling and pet hair.
My experience: This device is most suitable for pilling and pet hair on heavy fabrics, upholstery and high pile carpet. It WILL snag on thin and delicate fabrics and isn't great on clothing, so use caution. Not worth the hype.
Score: 4/10
Description: A battery-operated fabric shaver, specifically for pilling. You've probably seen this at the pharmacy.
My experience: This works really well for its intended purpose, shaving off pilling. Be sure your garment is smooth and flat, with no folds. May snag delicate or textured fabrics, use caution. Not suitable for lint or pet hair.
Score: 8/10
Description: A sticky plastic lint roller that is supposedly washable and reusable.
My experience: What was I even thinking with this? After maybe the second rinse, the sticky roller was no longer sticky. I couldn't even include it in this demo. Even the best of us can get duped by greenwashing! Absolute garbage.
Score: 0/10
While I wasn't overly impressed with any of these options, there are a couple that will do. I'll definitely keep the red fabric brush around for lint, and the fabric shaver for pilling. It's still pretty frustrating that someone hasn't nailed the perfect reusable lint brush yet. If you've seen or tried an option not in this list, let me know in the comments!
]]>It's easy to reduce waste at home with these quick and practical ideas!
]]>"Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without."
It's easy to reduce waste at home with these quick and practical tips!
Try this low waste solution to tidy up your drawers!
Has something broken? Before buying a replacement, consider whether it is something that can be repaired instead! All this shattered spoon rest needed was a little Krazy glue to be useable again.
How to not waste the last bit of mustard (or whatever) in the bottle.
Save your old, beat up scrub brushes to use on the dirtiest jobs (like outside) before discarding.
When it's time to finally replace, consider a plastic-free scrub brush, made from pine wood and agave bristles.
I love Halloween. One of my favourite Halloween activities has always been carving pumpkins... and then eating them! That's right, both the seeds and flesh of your Jack-o-Lantern are edible (as long as you get to it before it rots on your doorstep).
According to a poll of 3,000 adults in the UK, carried out by the food charity Hubbub, only 42% of participants realise the fleshy innards of a carving pumpkin are edible. (source)
After Halloween, take your pumpkin inside and make some easy pumpkin puree to use in soups, pies and more. I recently made this vegan pumpkin pie recipe, and it may have been one of the most delicious pies I've ever had.
EASY PUMPKIN PUREE INSTRUCTIONS
So, what if you don't like to eat pumpkin, don't have the time, or get to your Jack-o-Lantern when it's past its prime? There are still better options than throwing it in the garbage. Pumpkins sent to the landfill not only take up much-needed space, they also speed up the process of global warming.
When any organic waste decomposes in municipal solid waste landfills, it produces methane, a harmful greenhouse gas that plays a major part in climate change, producing more than 25 times the warming effect of the same amount of carbon dioxide emissions, according to the federal government. (source)
RESPONSIBLE PUMPKIN DISPOSAL
Don't let this fun tradition contribute to our growing waste problem.
Happy pumpkin carving, and Happy Halloween! 🎃
Sources: The Guardian, It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken, Capital Current
]]>It's easy to reduce waste at home with these quick and practical tips!
Banana peels make great plant fertilizer! I love learning new ways to use my food 'scraps'. Bananas are rich in minerals like potassium, phosphorus, and calcium to make your plants and soil happy.
How to make banana water for plants:
Bamboo toothbrushes are already a great low waste alternative to plastic. To reduce waste even more, hang on to your used handles and use them to label plants in your garden!
Simply remove all of the bristles with pliers and write on the handle with permanent marker. Easy!
Use a bandana, scarf or tea towel to wrap gifts. The Japanese method of furoshiki fabric gift wrapping has gained popularity in the West in recent years, and it's easy to see why! The result is beautiful and the fabric squares can be reused year after year.
The simplest way to wrap a gift with fabric
Do you make your own nut milk or nut cheeze? Have you been using disposable cheesecloth? Why not try a reusable cotton bag instead?
Use, wash, reuse, repeat!
That's 13 metres of cotton fabric, 17 metres of nose wire, 45 metres of elastic, 108 metres of fabric ties, and about 66 hours. This has been a labour of love.
]]>At this point, I've made over 200 non-surgical cotton face masks...
That's 13 metres of cotton fabric, 17 metres of nose wire, 45 metres of elastic, 108 metres of fabric ties, and about 66 hours. This has been a labour of love.
If you had asked me early in 2020 what my business plans were for the year, I probably would have said lots of markets, pop-up shops, and retail opportunities. Like many small business owners, my plans for the year changed drastically with the outbreak of COVID-19. Toronto shut its doors about a week after I had set up my new retail spot at Arts Market. I was devastated. I definitely wondered what all this would mean for my business, but mostly I wondered "how can I help?".
That's when I discovered the need for non-medical fabric mask donations and the organizations and initiatives leading the charge. I donated my first dozen masks to the Michael Garron Hospital Foundation, and it felt good. Then I decided to sign up and commit to making 100 masks for RAW Canada's Making Masks Initiative. I had just over a week to meet the deadline and I did little else until all 100 were complete.
In order to keep supporting my community more sustainably, I decided to offer masks for sale, donating one additional mask for each mask purchased. Thanks to your support, I have been able to donate an additional 45 masks to those in need!
]]>Visible mending has regained popularity lately, especially with the zero waste crowd. It makes sense considering that the fashion and textile industries tend to create a lot of waste, it's best to try and get the most wear from our clothes. Today I'd like to share my experience trying the Japanese shashiko technique on a favourite pair of jeans.
Sashiko (literally "little stabs" or "little pierce") is a form of decorative reinforcement stitching (or functional embroidery) from Japan that started out of practical need during the Edo era (1615-1868). Traditionally used to reinforce points of wear or to repair worn places or tears with patches, making the piece ultimately stronger and warmer, this running stitch technique is also used for purely decorative purposes in quilting and embroidery.
Tutorial adapted from: Aborderie - how to mend your clothes with beautiful japanese sashiko
You will need:
1. Gather your supplies and cut your fabric patch to cover your hole with a few centimetres around the edge. I forgot to do this but I definitely recommend cutting with pinking shears or serging the edges of your patch to prevent fraying. Pin or baste your patch to the back of the hole in your garment. I chose to baste with a contrasting colour thread.
2. Flip your garment right side out. If you basted with contrast thread, you'll easily be able to see where the edges of your patch are. Mark out your grid, if desired. Some folks like to go right in to their stitching but I found that marking out a grid with tailor's chalk kept me on track.
3. Thread your needle and knot the end of the thread. Starting on the inside of the garment, in an area where the garment is still intact (i.e. not where the hole is!) bring the needle up through the patch and fabric to the right side, then tug the thread to bring the knot between the patch and the garment fabric. Using your grid as a guide, bring the needle down and up through the fabric several times, until you have your needle loaded, then pull the needle through to create your stitches. Loading the needle like this is part of the tradition of sashiko and helps to create even stitches. Repeat for all horizontal stitches, followed by your vertical stitches to make the little cross pattern.
4. Admire your work and wear your mended garment with pride!
Are you looking for ways to reduce your waste this holiday season? One area that typically produces a LOT of waste is gift wrapping. Pretty packaging that's used once and then tossed is not your only option! Here are our tips and ideas to reduce, reuse and recycle your way to beautifully wrapped gifts.
I think that fabric gift bags used to be more common than they are today, my parents definitely have a few that they have been using every year since before I was born. Our Ardent Earth Upcycled fabric wine bottle gift bags take it one step further since they are made from 100% upcycled materials. I love the idea of one of these making the rounds through a family or group of friends year-by-year.
Most wrapping paper is not recyclable! If you love wrapping with paper, look for an uncoated, recyclable option like kraft paper. You can also avoid tape using this clever no-tape wrapping method and reusable fabric ribbon.
Avoid buying any paper at all by upcycling a paper bag you may already have at home, and securing with fabric ribbon or kitchen twine.
What if you wrapped your gift WITH your gift? Our upcycled coffee sack baskets make great gift baskets too! There is certainly less mystery with this method, but it can be a great option.
The Japanese method of furoshiki fabric gift wrapping has gained popularity in the West in recent years, and it's easy to see why! The result is beautiful and the fabric squares can be reused year after year. You can also try this method with a scarf or tea towel.
Method 1
Method 2
I like to keep a small box of gift wrapping supplies. Save any reusable bags, fabric ribbon, gift tags, and even paper that's still in good condition and use it all again next year.
Sometimes an idea is so good, you just have to share it! Have you ever made vegetable broth from your veggie scraps? Not only does this reduce food waste, it also saves you money and reduces packaging waste since you're not buying pre-made veggie broth anymore! Plus, whenever you make something yourself from scratch, you can control the ingredients you use and not worry about any allergens that could be hiding in packaged foods.
I used to think that making my own broth would be difficult or take all day but it's actually quite easy! Just start by saving up your veggie scraps in the freezer until you have enough.
Recipe adapted from: It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken
1. Gather your ingredients
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in the onion and garlic and sauté for around 5 minutes until it begins to brown. Add in all the veggie scraps, water, bay leaves, pepper, and salt.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 45 minutes until they broth is fragrant and rich in colour. The broth will vary in colour and taste depending on the scraps used.
4. Put a fine colander over a large bowl or another large pot. Strain out the veggie scraps and discard. Use your broth right away or store it for later. I like to pour 1/4 cup portions in to muffin tins and freeze.
*Note: After the broth is frozen, I remove from the muffin tins and store in a container for easy grab-and-go use later.
Are you guilty of relying on packaged, disposable kitchen wet wipes? Are you looking for more eco-friendly ways to keep your house clean? Well, today I've got the perfect DIY solution! Five minutes is all it takes for a greener alternative that's just as convenient.
First, let's look at the ingredients of a popular disinfecting wipe on the market:
The ingredients shown in bold are known allergens and respiratory irritants! (according to Environmental Working Group) Yikes!
Now, let's think about just how many single use cloths and plastic packages you'd be throwing away using these wipes on the regular. Yikes again!
Thankfully, there are options. Using natural castille soap and pure (antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral) tea tree essential oil, these DIY kitchen wipes are easy, effective and safe for all members of your household. Give the recipe below a try and let us know what you think!
You will need:
Method:
*Notes: