Q & A with Zero Waste Nerd - Megean Weldon

We talked to Megean Weldon, founder of Zero Waste Nerd and mother, about her website, why she chose Bumbleride and recommendations for families to reduce waste in small, easy steps. We thought you’d love what she has to say:

1. How would you describe your website?

   I have designed my website to be a resource for those who aim to reduce their waste and live a simpler life. Though my website is called "zero" waste nerd, I preach that it's not necessarily about producing absolutely no trash but about changing how we view our consumption obsession and making better choices. We've let convenience control us and have become incredibly disposable. There are many simple tips and tricks that I teach that will reverse those disposable tendencies and help everyone to reduce their waste dramatically.

2. What are 3-5 small steps a family can take to make a big impact on reducing their waste?

   Most of our waste starts in the kitchen. The best thing about many of the tips I talk about is that the whole family can be involved. Composting is a great way to reduce anyone's household, organic waste by nearly 2/3. Build a compost bin, take it to a local drop off location, or enroll in a curbside pickup. Vermicomposting (worm bin) is also a fun and unique way of composting your organic waste that the kids would definitely love. Another easy way to reduce waste is to replace all disposable items such as plastic, throw away cutlery, plastic bottle of water, paper napkins, and even paper plates with reusable alternatives. It also helps reduce your monthly spending considering you will no longer need to purchase replacement disposables later. Try shopping package free. Purchase items from the bulk bins, bring your own containers to the bakery, and refuse the produce bags all together. Not only will you reduce your waste considerably but you will find that most of the food that comes without packaging is the healthiest. Growing your own food is another way to become more sustainable and reduce your food miles. Start a garden or even just grow herbs on your window sill - it's fun, it reduces waste, and it's empowering!

3. Which criteria do you recommend families consider and learn more about when shopping?

   When purchasing anything - whether it be baby gear, feeding products, nursery gear, or toys I stress to really be mindful of the companies and products you are supporting. We see so many companies, today, making products that are designed to break. It's time we start supporting companies that value their products and work towards a circular model. Look for products that will last, look for companies that stand behind their products, and look for items that can be easily recycled once they have worn out.

4. Tell us about your zero waste kit.

   My zero waste kit helps me refuse single use disposable items when I'm on the go. Most of the waste we generate happens outside of our home so being prepared is key to reducing waste. I use a mason jar for beverages and food storage, a reusable napkin for replacing paper towels and paper napkins, a stainless steel straw to avoid plastic straws, a stainless steel spork to refuse single use cutlery, a stainless steel container for food on the go and even leftovers at restaurants, and a cloth tote to contain everything and to refuse single use plastic bags. Now, I stick all of these things in the diaper bag and it works perfectly!

5. What are some of your favorite other products or companies that are helping reduce waste?

   There are so many great companies striving to make a positive, environmental impact. One of the first companies I fell in love with was Planet Love Life. They are working to spread awareness and teach about marine debris and pollution. They collect fishing gear off of beaches that have washed ashore and turn them into beautiful bracelets - bracelets that in turn help spread the message of preserving our beautiful planet. Some of my favorite products that help me reduce waste are stainless steel straws and plastic free scrubbing brushes. Their not only beautiful to keep around, they are incredibly durable and will last a very long time. And finally, I have to give a shout out to Jessica and Nicole of Hand and Land in Kansas City. Their store is a one of kind shop that sources local makers and products as well as simple and natural health and beauty products. I'm. In. Love.

6. Why did you choose Bumbleride?

   Supporting companies who stand behind their products, are mindful of their environmental impact, and strive for sustainable business practices is very important to me. I spent a considerable amount of time researching the perfect stroller that aligned with my values and excitedly came across Bumbleride. From the moment I read their mission, I fell in love. Every part of production from the materials to the manufacturing has been fine tuned to be the most sustainable. What other stroller companies do this? There isn't many. Aside from their goal to preserve the beautiful world around us, their strollers are incredibly, and I truly mean INCREDIBLY wonderful to push and maneuver. After all of the strollers I have tested - some cheaper, some more expensive, Bumbleride was the best - by miles.

7. Who are some of the people/companies you are following for zero waste inspiration?

   There are so many wonderful Zero Waste bloggers and Instagrammers that continue to inspire me every single day. The Zero Market in Denver Co is a huge source for my inspiration as a zero waste shop entrepreneur. Their goal to create a completely zero waste store aka store of the future impresses me greatly. They put so much effort and care into sourcing sustainable goods, recycling items intended for the landfill, and offering the tools for people to jump into the zero waste movement. I have recently started my journey to do the same in my area and have begun with an online shop called www.zerowastenerd.com. Some other fantastic bloggers are Andrea of Be Zero, Courtney of Be More with Less, Caitlin of Eco Cajun, and Meredith of Meredith Tested. But seriously, there are SO many wonderful bloggers out there striving to make the world a little better. -Megean Weldon, Zero Waste Nerd Make sure to visit Megean's website, Zero Waste Nerd and follow her on Instagram. Thanks so much for sharing with us! Megean and family. Strolling and picking up litter. Grocery haul Grocery haul Megean's brother getting a chance to push Indie at the local Farmer's Market.