The New Normal

I've been told that "Zero Waste" is a hippy, crunchy lifestyle for people who make their own kombucha. That my Facebook posts are off in the deep end of the left side of the pool. I've been in meetings where I've said, I want to teach people this and met with awkward silence.

Two generations ago, in WWII, thrifty living was the norm. Everything could be saved and repurposed: flour bags for dishcloths, kitchen scraps for livestock. A teabag could be used twice if you were really dedicated. Disposable utensils and plates were not in circulation yet, so every plate was "reusable." Somewhere between WWII and now, "normal" changed and we began to use more plastic and move towards convenience. Now every party has disposable plates, single use catering bins, cheap decorations, and balloons. Do the details matter? In all the convenience, resources ceased to have value.

Can you say that you are connected to where things come from and where they go? Do you know the story of your toothbrush? Can you see the future of your fondue pot?

The more I learn about ocean plastic, resource destruction, and climate change I realize just how important it is to be mindful about my own consumption habits. I am one person and I can make a difference - however, that difference would be much bigger if other people did the same. If we redefined "normal" again. If we stopped hiding for the comfort of those around us.

So I flash my to-go containers as it they were shiny new iPhones. I highlight my bulk containers on the home tour and I always tell somebody when my daughter is wearing consignment. I'm an early adapter and I have to think that's pretty cool.