Zero Waste & You: Shopping Smart
Reducing waste starts with mindful shopping. By making smarter choices, we can minimize our environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future. Here are some practical tips to help you shop smart and reduce waste:
- Choose Reusable Over Disposable -Avoid single-use products. Opt for reusable alternatives like cloth bags, stainless steel water bottles, and glass food containers. These items last longer and help cut down on waste from disposable plastics and packaging.
- Buy in Bulk - Purchasing items in bulk reduces the need for excess packaging. Bring your own containers to refill staples like grains, nuts, and spices. Many stores now offer bulk sections for dry goods, oils, and even cleaning supplies.
- Prioritize Sustainable Materials - Select products made from eco-friendly, biodegradable materials. Bamboo, glass, stainless steel, and recycled paper are great alternatives to plastic. When buying clothing or household items, opt for natural fibers like cotton, wool, and linen over synthetics.
- Support Local and Sustainable Brands - Shopping locally reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and supports businesses that prioritize sustainability. Seek out brands that use ethical practices, environmentally friendly materials, and minimal packaging.
- Plan Ahead to Prevent Impulse Buys - Impulse purchases often lead to unnecessary waste. Before you shop, make a list of what you need. This prevents overbuying and ensures you only bring home items that will actually be used.
Learn more smart shopping habits at gainesvillefl.gov/ZeroWaste or follow us – @ZeroWasteGNV – on Facebook and Instagram.
The “Buy Nothing” Trend Gaining Momentum
You’ve probably heard of the Buy Nothing groups – local, community-based networks where members give away or receive items for free, without any exchange of money. Originating from the Buy Nothing Project, these groups promote a gift economy that strengthens neighborhood connections while helping reduce waste.
How exactly do you “Buy Nothing”? By sharing items such as clothes, furniture, tools, or even food, members of Buy Nothing groups divert usable goods from landfills, reducing environmental impact. After all, landfills eventually fill up. Items that may otherwise be discarded find new homes, contributing to sustainability by extending their life cycle.
In addition to minimizing waste, these groups foster a sense of community. Neighbors come together through acts of generosity and support, building relationships that take us out of our isolated bubbles. Whether it’s gifting an item, lending a hand, or simply expressing gratitude, Buy Nothing groups help create stronger, more connected communities.
By participating in a Buy Nothing group, individuals can save money, reduce their carbon footprint, and make meaningful connections with their neighbors—all while helping create a more sustainable, waste-conscious society.
Currently, the best place to find these groups is social media, where there are nearly 20 such groups just in the Gainesville / Alachua County area.
Learn more ways to save the environment while saving money at gainesvillefl.gov/ZeroWaste or follow us – @ZeroWasteGNV – on Facebook and Instagram.
A Worry-free Compost Pile: 7 Tips to Reduce Problems in Your Backyard Compost Pile
Composting is an excellent way to reduce waste and enrich your garden soil. However, a poorly managed compost pile can lead to common issues, like unpleasant odors. If your compost smells bad, it may be time to adjust your approach. Here are some tips to help you manage your compost pile effectively:
Balance Greens and Browns: Ensure a proper mix of "greens" (nitrogen-rich materials like food scraps) and "browns" (carbon-rich materials like dry leaves). Aim for a 1:3 ratio of greens to browns to control odors and enhance decomposition.- Improve Aeration: Lack of oxygen can cause foul smells. Turn your compost regularly with a pitchfork to introduce air, which helps aerobic bacteria break down organic matter without bad odors.
- Monitor Moisture Levels: Compost should be as moist as a wrung-out sponge. If it's too wet, add more browns; if too dry, sprinkle some water while turning it.
- Chop Materials Smaller: Cutting materials into smaller pieces speeds up decomposition and reduces odors. Chop kitchen scraps and shred paper before adding them to the pile.
- Avoid Odorous Materials: Avoid adding meat, dairy, oily foods, and large amounts of cooked foods, as they can produce strong odors and attract pests.
- Use a Compost Cover: Covering your compost with a lid or a layer of finished compost, straw, or soil can help contain odors and regulate moisture and temperature.
- Consider a Compost Activator: If odors persist, use a compost activator to boost decomposition and reduce smells.
By following these tips, you can manage your compost pile effectively, reducing bad odors and creating nutrient-rich compost for your garden.
Beyond the Bin: The Environmental Benefits of Recycling
Recycling is vital in addressing climate change, as it enhances resource management, decreases pollution, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting recycling practices, we can significantly lower our carbon footprint, conserve essential natural resources, and safeguard the health of humans, wildlife, and our planet.
Reducing Greenhouse Gases: Recycling plays a crucial role in minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.
- By using recycled materials, we consume less energy, leading to fewer fossil fuels burned and significantly reducing the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The extraction and transport of virgin materials are energy-intensive processes that contribute heavily to greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, processing recycled materials requires much less energy and results in fewer emissions.
- Recycling paper reduces deforestation, as trees are vital in capturing and storing carbon dioxide, the most prevalent greenhouse gas, and converting it into oxygen.
Conserving Resources: Recycling is instrumental in improving resource management by reducing the strain on natural resources and enabling more efficient usage.
- Recycling helps conserve materials for future generations by filling the constant demand for materials and preventing the depletion of finite, nonrenewable resources, such as oil and metals.
- Recycling also benefits renewable resources, like wood and freshwater, which are being consumed faster than they can replenish. In the United States, more than two-thirds of waste is buried or burned daily.
Pollution Prevention: Recycling significantly reduces air, water, and land pollution.
- Recycling decreases toxins entering our air and groundwater systems due to the energy savings from recycling and household hazardous waste processing.
- Recycling benefits our oceans by transforming plastic products into new materials, reducing plastic pollutants. Recycling is crucial in addressing this environmental challenge, as an estimated eight million tons of plastic enter our oceans yearly.
By embracing recycling, we can enhance resource management, reduce pollution, and lower greenhouse gas emissions, thereby playing a pivotal role in combating climate change.
Expanded Polystyrene Containers (Styrofoam®) Ban on City Property
Just a friendly reminder that Expanded Polystyrene Containers (commonly known as Styrofoam) are banned on City of Gainesville Properties. This ordinance (No. 210129) prohibits the distribution of prepackaged food or beverages in expanded polystyrene by a permit holder on City of Gainesville property or on the City of Gainesville right-of-way. This ban includes all vendors (including city-owned and/or operated services) at city parks, golf courses, and buildings, as well as permitted events on city streets (e.g., fairs & festivals). Expanded polystyrene containers include any plate, bowl, cup, container, lid, tray, cooler, ice chest, or similar item made of blown polystyrene and expanded and extruded foam material.
City agencies are encouraged to modify their operations and find alternative containers for use to comply with this ordinance. For example, foam cups and trays can easily be replaced with eco-friendly food packaging products made of pulp fibers, sugarcane, or other biodegradable materials.
The city's goal is to minimize the use of these items by replacing them with reusable, recyclable, or compostable alternatives on city property and prevent foam products from entering and harming our environment. Expanded polystyrene is not biodegradable, meaning it does not naturally degrade over time and often breaks down into smaller pieces that pollute the land and waters, which pose threats to wildlife and make cleanup efforts more difficult.
Exceptions to this ordinance include (1) Foam items brought onto city property by individual visitors or employees from off-site sources; (2) the distribution of any prepackaged food that is filled and sealed in an expanded polystyrene container before receipt by the vendor (person or entity); and (3) raw meat or seafood that is stored in an expanded polystyrene container and sold from a refrigerated display or storage case.
For additional information on this ordinance, visit gainesvillefl.gov/ZeroWaste or follow us on social media – @ZeroWasteGNV on Facebook and Instagram – for more info.
Life After Cartons
It was announced several months ago that food and beverage cartons are no longer accepted in the curbside recycling programs of Gainesville and Alachua County. Since then, several of you have asked why not, what’s being done about it, and what substitutes are available.
“Why did you stop recycling cartons?”
Generally speaking, packaging made of mixed materials is always harder to recycle. While a wine bottle is made only of glass, and a soda can is made of aluminum, a carton is made by combining paper, plastic, and foil. It’s a real headache for recyclers!
Years of continued attempts to find domestic markets capable of processing these mixed material containers were ultimately unsuccessful, so it became clear that cartons must be disposed of in the garbage.
“What’s being done to make things more recyclable?”
New Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation is being discussed in several US states. If passed, it would ensure that more products could be sold in packaging with environmentally responsible manufacturing and domestic reuse, repair, or recycling outlets.
“How to get my yummy products without buying wasteful cartons?”
To avoid packaging altogether, many of these products sold in cartons – such as juices, plant milks, and coffee creamers – can be made at home. In addition to reducing unnecessary waste, you can also avoid all the added sugar, emulsifiers, thickeners, and preservatives that come with factory-processed foodstuffs.
While gable-top, Tetra Pak, and wine and juice boxes are no longer accepted for recycling in the Gainesville/Alachua County curbside program, maybe life is better – for recyclers and our health – after cartons.
For information on what materials are accepted for recycling, visit gainesvillefl.gov/WhatCanBeRecycled or follow us on social media – @ZeroWasteGNV on Facebook and Instagram – for more info.
Zero Waste & You: Reducing Waste on the Go
Embracing a zero-waste lifestyle while on the go might seem daunting, but it can easily become second nature with some thoughtful planning and simple adjustments. Whether you're commuting to work, heading to school, or visiting friends out of town, take a moment to consider your waste habits during your travels.
Here are some tips for reducing waste and recycling while you're on the move:
- Fill up a reusable water bottle before your trip to avoid buying bottled water.
- Pack a zero-waste kit with items like cloth napkins and reusable cutlery.
- Prepare snacks at home and pack them in reusable containers.
- Bring a reusable container to store leftovers from dining out or potlucks. • Keep reusable shopping bags in your car for impromptu shopping trips.
- Buy only what you need and choose products in refillable or recyclable containers without excessive packaging.
- Decline plastic bags when checking out with only a few items you can carry.
- Keep designated bins or bags in your car to collect trash and recyclables separately.
Integrating these tips into your daily routine can significantly reduce waste. A zero-waste lifestyle on the go not only benefits the environment but also promotes a more conscientious and sustainable way of living. Visit gainesvillefl.gov/ZeroWaste or follow us on social media – @ZeroWasteGNV on Facebook and Instagram – for more info.
Compostable Product Confusion – What to Do?
When plastic enters our soil, waterways, or even our own compost pile, it begins breaking down into smaller and smaller particles, but doesn’t ever decompose. These small pieces of plastic pose a serious health risk to us, wildlife, and our environment.
Compostable cutlery, takeout boxes, cups, and straws offer a more closed-loop and eco-friendly alternative to plastic products, but it can be difficult to determine exactly what products are compostable.
Unlike the word “organic,” which is backed by USDA certification, words like “biodegradable,” “compostable,” and “made from plants” are currently not legislated and thus are virtually meaningless on their own.
But don’t despair! You just have to look for the BPI logo or the words “BPI certified” or “BPI Compostable.” The Biodegradable Products Institute is the certifying body for compostable packaging in North America, so if it’s got the BPI logo, it’s been third-party verified to not contain plastics.
Finally, just because it’s certified compostable, doesn’t necessarily mean it will break down under all composting conditions. For example, a home backyard compost pile might not get hot enough to fully breakdown some compostable products. However, at least you can rest assured you are avoiding the landfill and not introducing pesky plastics into our environment.
Reducing waste before it’s created is the ultimate Zero Waste approach, but when you can’t avoid disposables, look for the BPI certified compostable logo!
Learn more about composting at gainesvillefl.gov/Compost, and follow @ZeroWasteGNV on Facebook and Instagram.
Beyond the Bin: The Journey of Recycled Glass
Recycling glass containers into valuable products is a key element of today’s waste recovery systems. Over 3.1 million tons of glass bottles and jars are recycled yearly in the U.S. However, this represents only about a third of the glass containers produced, so substantially more glass containers could be recycled.
Recycled glass is incredibly versatile and can be transformed into a wide range of products, including:
- New Glass Containers: The most common use of recycled glass is to produce new bottles and jars. Known as cullet, recycled glass can be melted and reformed without losing quality, making it an ideal material for creating new containers. This energy-efficient process reduces the need for raw materials like silica sand, soda ash, and limestone.
- Fiberglass Insulation: Recycled glass is also used to manufacture fiberglass insulation. Cullet is melted and spun into fibers, which are then used to create building insulation. This not only aids in energy conservation but also provides a market for recycled glass.
- Construction Materials: Recycled glass can be incorporated into construction materials such as concrete, asphalt, and glass tiles. When used in concrete, it enhances durability and aesthetic appeal, while glass tiles add a unique, recycled touch to various design elements.
- Art and Decorative Items: Artisans often use recycled glass to create beautiful decorative items like vases, sculptures, and jewelry. This application promotes recycling and highlights the aesthetic potential of recycled materials.
Glass bottles and jars come in various colors, each with distinct characteristics and uses. Clear or “flint” glass is the most commonly used container type. Brown or “amber” glass protects products like beer and medications from light. Green glass is often used for oil or wine bottles.
Recycled glass plays a vital role in creating new products, conserving natural resources, and reducing environmental impact. By understanding the various types of glass and their recycling potential, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future. Learn even more at gainesvillefl.gov/ZeroWaste, and follow @ZeroWasteGNV on Facebook and Instagram.
The Benefits of a Lease Transition Plan for Multi-family Properties
Property managers, it's that time again—tenants are moving out, and you're left with an abundance of items tenants left behind. Coffee machines, end tables, clothes, and kitchen trashcans can quickly pile up, becoming overwhelming to manage.
However, if you've prepared a Lease Transition Plan, you're equipped to handle turnovers smoothly while reducing waste and saving on garbage hauling costs. Who knew move-outs could be this easy?
Gainesville requires Lease Transition Plans to be submitted by Multi-family Properties as part of the City’s overall Zero Waste goals to minimize landfill waste by promoting the reuse and recycling of materials. Currently, each multi-family property with at least 200 units must submit a Lease Transition Plan annually to the City’s Solid Waste Division, and as of January 1, 2025, this ordinance will also apply to all multi-family properties with at least 50 units.
Each Lease Transition plan should detail how they intend to divert usable household goods, furnishings, electronics, and recyclable cardboard during high-volume move-in and move-out periods and include:
- Notices sent to tenants with information on how and where items can be donated for reuse.
- If established, tenants should be informed about any on-site donation locations.
Property managers seeking assistance with setting up their Lease Transition Plan are encouraged to contact the City of Gainesville’s Solid Waste Division or visit gainesvillefl.gov/ZeroWaste.
Cartons Dropped from Recycling Program
As the saying goes, there's no use crying over spilled milk. However, in this case, it's the carton that has met its end, not the milk. Food and beverage cartons are no longer accepted in the curbside recycling programs of Gainesville and Alachua County. Cartons are also no longer accepted for recycling drop-off at any of the Alachua County Rural Collection Centers.
Attempts to find domestic markets capable of processing this material have been unsuccessful. Additionally, the volume of cartons collected locally has been insufficient to fill shipments before the containers become moldy, rendering them unsuitable for recycling.
The following are no longer accepted for recycling:
- Gable-top containers, such as milk, juice & egg substitute cartons
- Tetra Pak (shelf-stable) containers, such as protein drinks, broth and boxed wine
- Juice boxes
For information on what materials are accepted for recycling, visit gainesvillefl.gov/WhatCanBeRecycled, and follow @ZeroWasteGNV on Facebook and Instagram.
The Magic of the Zero Waste Wizard
Don’t know what to do with all your extra empty potion jars, broken staffs, and dusty witches’ hats lying around? Simply, visit gainesvillefl.gov/WasteWizard and ask your friendly Zero Waste Wizard to concoct a spell of responsible waste disposal!
The Zero Waste Wizard is the most reliable, up-to-date means for getting locally focused information on recycling, disposal, and reuse. City staff is constantly hitting the books at the School of Wizardry to keep the Zero Waste Wizard current, using information supplied mainly by app users like you.
In addition to answering crucial questions like “Is this recyclable?” a peek into the crystal ball will tell you everything from where to repair items, donate household goods, or find local scrap metal professionals.
While we think the Waste Wizard possesses all the answers, this Sorcerer of Sorting is also humble, so if you ask a question that doesn’t yet have an answer, you can suggest the addition of new items to the database of zero waste knowledge.
When you want to vanquish the dreaded foes of waste, clutter, and junk, the Zero Waste Wizard will cast a spell of all-knowing and all-seeing, giving you the answers you seek. In a world of darkness and uncertainty – “What do I do with all this old stuff?!” – let gainesvillefl.gov/WasteWizard light the way forward!