Zero Waste vs Minimalism?

In my household, we have a tendency to declutter every six months. Typically, in January (right after the Holidays) and in June (before the summer season kicks into high gear). We go through all of our items and determine what is being used and for what purpose. Our living space is limited and so we try to make the most of what remains, without having to bring in a lot more items. And while we may not be minimalists compared to other people we know, we do try to adhere to the principles of sustainable living and not having a wasteful lifestyle.

This begs the question as to whether or not minimalism and zero waste are mutually exclusive to each other. Or is there a way for both concepts to exist congruently? I believe that it is possible, especially if you are able to commit to a more sustainable way of life. Would you like to learn more? Check out these books at your local library for some tips on how to maintain a zero waste lifestyle while also embracing minimalism!

Zero Waste Booklist:

A Zero Waste Life in Thirty Days

Zero Waste

Six Weeks to Zero Waste

The Zero-waste Lifestyle

Minimalism Booklist: 

Minimalism

New Minimalism

Messy Minimalism

Sustainable Minimalism

Other Selections: 

Project 333

Better

Green Living Made Easy

While we may not be able to embrace minimalism to the extent that some of our friends have, I do believe that we've made an excellent use of our apartment and enjoy very full lives. 

For more selections about decluttering and green cleaning, check out my blog from earlier this Spring!

And while you are striving to make these changes, don't forget to take some time to breathe, relax, and meditate. It makes the whole process much easier overall.