—Systemic change begins with personal change—
Bea Johnson's blog and my bestselling book, Zero Waste Home (20 languages and #1 on Amazon.com, waste management category), have launched a global movement, inspiring thousands of people throughout the world to live simply and take a stance against needless waste. In them, she proposes a simple guideline, my 5R's: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot (and only in that order).
The New York Times called her "The Priestess of Waste-Free Living."
CNN called her "The mother of the zero waste lifestyle movement."
I call her a role model. After a few years avoiding packaging, I've reduced my waste to one bag in 16 months. Her family of four produces a tenth of what I do. And her house is beautiful, they save money and time. It's joyful. If you compare your waste to Americans or other westerners, get to know Bea. She will influence you to improve your life.
Whatever your values regarding cleanliness and caring, she lives them as fully as anyone you'll meet.
For tips and insights on her waste-free lifestyle, join her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (@zerowastehome).
And watch her videos, including her multiple TEDx talks.
Bea has become a role model, maybe even a hero to me. People keep saying they're impressed with my waste. It's easy to allow your standards to slide. One problem: my fellow Americans waste more than nearly anyone in human history. I don't want to relax my cleanliness and integrity. Bea has reduced waste for longer and has spoken more about it. She knows what works, what doesn't, how to express it, and more. Most of all, she enjoys it. Like anyone, she started with doubt and incredulity. She worked through the challenges, which shows that you can too. In our conversation she shares what works, how to start, how to face and overcome challenges, and, most of all, how to enjoy living by your values. As with everyone who takes on the difficult challenge of choosing between a deep value and comfort and convenience, the choice improved her life. You will find your life improves the same. Listening to Bea will get you started. Read the transcript.