Comments on: My One Trashcan Challenge: 19 Months of Low Waste Living

By: Tammy Luce

Tammy Luce — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 02:59:00 +0000

I have read that chicken feed, which is made of corn, is a really good substitute for litter, though I haven’t had the chance to try it yet. Also a lot cheaper than litter.

By: Greg Seaman

Greg Seaman — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 19:08:00 +0000

Good for you! The simple fact that you are aware and trying to make a difference is what matters most. Thank you for your comment.

By: gwen

gwen — Mon, 09 Jul 2012 23:30:00 +0000

i did not know straws came under number 5 we use a lot in our house with a Asperger’s child. We have chickens and they get most of our left overs, we compost and use our recycle bin but after reading your story i know i do not do all that i can
i will be challenging our house more.
Thank you also for the list of numbers

By: Christan Schell

Christan Schell — Mon, 14 May 2012 15:20:00 +0000

Awesome to read this! I’ve been trying to do something similar for about 2 years now. Taking enviro chem really pushed me in this direction. I rarely have to make a trip to the local transfer station anymore, and when I do I’m motivated not to return for an even longer time (the amt. of trash moved to the local landfill in one day is insane). I cringe at polystyrene and pretty much all packaging now.

By: Geoff de Ruiter

Geoff de Ruiter — Sun, 13 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Hi Anna! I didn’t realize there was a question in the comments to answer. I am really sorry. In Victoria we could recycle the majority of items, but not Expanded Styrofoam. I believe now there is one place that does, but that is a year later now. It is tough because some places only have limited facilities. I do sincerely believe that when you do buy limiting the un-recyclables will go a long way. Also you never really know what you can recycle unless you look around. Most large grocery stores will take back soft plastics, such as bags. Also the city may have special drop off recycling at the dump. If you live out of a large urban centre perhaps also save up and when you might be going to a city take it with you! Best of luck and sorry again for not seeing your question.

By: Anna

Anna — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 02:59:15 +0000

That is amazing!! Something to aspire too! I do have a question, what can you recycle? We can only recycle plastics #1 & #2.

By: frugalinterior

frugalinterior — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 21:06:07 +0000

I've seen a reduction in my own curbside garbage due to recycling and composting but your feat is remarkable and astounding. We ALL have room for improvement. Many would be hard pressed to do in a month what you've done in a year, let alone 19 months! Thanks for the wake-up call!

By: Lee Libro

Lee Libro — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 18:20:00 +0000

What an amazing feat! While we all attempt to reduce our waste, you’ve done this with aplomb! Your article pointed out so many other details to consider…like glue residue and wax in mix materials. I’ll agree that reducing consumption of these items is king, but recycling and reuse will always remain at the basis of resource efficiency. But in order to “Be The Change” we must indeed practice all three! Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!

By: Alease Michelle

Alease Michelle — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:16:43 +0000

Geoff, you are a great inspiration to us all. I also love the movement of repurposing objects too that give things new life.

By: martjen

martjen — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 15:26:17 +0000

Way to go Geoff. You are the kind of leader-by-example we need!

By: Heather

Heather — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 10:29:08 +0000

This is very commendable, I like the idea of a cloth bag for veggies at the store! Oh, but hatters went "mad" from mercury poisening, not lead.

By: nelsoncastro

nelsoncastro — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 05:14:00 +0000

Truly an inspiring story to help the environmental issues that the whole world is facing now a days. Thanks a lot of taking the initiative to make a simple move to help solve the problem.