Zero-waste fall

by: Karla De Jesus

It’s Fall! Who says we can't be super festive and still have zero waste?!

Pumpkin spice lattes, apple cider donuts, jumping in a leaf pile, or a trip to your local farm, all wonderful Fall adventures.. none of which actually need to create waste! Instead of buying that pumpkin spice latte, bring your own mug, or make your own at home. Trust us, it tastes better and you're bank account will thank us. Check out our favorite recipe below! As far decor.. there's so much beauty in nature, so why don't we bring some of that inside?

Foraging

No need for plastic pumpkins that accumulate dust.. go out into nature, connect with our Earth, and create your own decor. Organic, sustainable, and it's never been cozier. Yard Sales - or Grandma's junk room ... there's got to be a vintage vase around there somewhere!

Go for a walk outside and breathe in the fresh, crisp air. While taking in the Fall foliage, don't forget to forage for some interesting looking twigs, small branches to put in a vase in front of your fireplace. Decorating with nature is a great way to make your home feel more warm and welcoming.

Everyone loves a festive table top.. Click the arrow to view slideshow.

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte

Spicy, warm and delicious..

You will need:

1. 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

2. 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree to a small pot, over medium heat

3. Stir, then add spice mix and non-dairy milk of choice.

4. Turn off the heat, and stir in coffee (about 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, or 1-2 shots of espresso). Taste for sweetness, and adjust as needed.

5. To add foam between layers of coffee use vegan whip cream.

6. Top with pumpkin spice (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves) and figs.

Recipe: Nora Cooks

Zero waste scents

A great way to avoid plastic packaging and products is creating your own scents and candles.

Homemade Air Freshener:

1. Water (as much as you need to fill the bottle)

2. 10 drops of fall essential oils

3. Shake

4. Enjoy!

Candles can be bought in glass jars that can later be repurposed for storage or to make your own candles.

Why Isn't There One Easy Way to Recycle Glass?

Apple and pumpkin picking

Scope out the perfect pumpkin for your Jack o' Lantern, go apple picking and support local farms. Visiting greenhouses that provide flowers and fresh produce can also be a great way to find autumnal decorations.

Shopping from local farmers can be a great way to make the community come together. Learn about the land and foods they grow according to the seasons.

Roast pumpkin seeds with a touch of salt for a crunchy snack or addition to granola. When it comes to that sad time of the year when your pumpkin is no longer good, don't forget to compost the scraps!

Ten reasons to buy local food

Table top decorations. Click arrow to view slideshow.

Sustainable shopping

If you haven't found what you're looking for in nature try shopping secondhand. Local markets, artisans, vintage shops and flea markets sell items that will bring coziness to your home.

"When you support a local business, you’re also supporting your city and neighborhood.."

-Makemade

5 Reasons to Shop Small, Local & Handmade - this holiday and all year round

We hope this gives you some Fall inspiration to let your creativity flow this Fall and enjoy it even more so knowing you're doing it waste free.

Thanks for reading, neighbor!