While it may feel like the waste we create on a daily basis is insignificant, the numbers can quickly accumulate over time. In 2022 alone, 7.39 million tonnes of solid waste were disposed of in Singapore, of which 1.86 million tonnes was generated by households.

As more organisations take a stance on attaining zero waste, it is now easier for us to make impactful changes and enjoy a more eco-conscious lifestyle.

In this month’s blog, we’re showcasing three local brands that are making environmentally-friendly household products easily accessible. If you’re keen to start embarking on your own zero waste journey, read on to see what they have to offer.

Natural personal care for the family

While we rely on soap to clean our body, mass-produced soaps use synthetic chemicals to create lather and scent and these are generally packed with preservatives that can be harmful to our skin, hard to break down when washed away, and contribute to pollution in our drains and oceans.

The Castile Soap Shop solves this problem by curating high-quality natural soaps and cleaners that are produced the right way. The brand advocates for the many natural ingredients found in our surroundings, primarily made from 100% organic plant oils, and incorporates them into their products to promote an organic, chemical-free cleaning routine. 

Their online store features a wide array of products, be it for the body, hair, pets or home, making it a one-stop shop for all things related to home and self-cleaning. And once every month, the brand also provides a Mobile Refill Service for customers to have their favourite soaps topped up right at home in their recyclable bottles to reduce plastic waste.

Making eco-conscious choices can be convenient with brands like The Castile Soap Shop. If you would like to check them out, head over to their website or Instagram page.

Going green one chopstick at a time

Every week, over 1.5 billion disposable chopsticks are used worldwide – and are sent straight to the landfills. 

With so much wood at our disposal, ChopValue has found a way to transform all these single-use waste into functional home furniture and decor pieces. From kitchen accessories, to home office desks and wooden toys, the brand is making their impact and crafting unique items to elevate your home, one chopstick at a time. 

The company begins their process by collecting used chopsticks from various businesses before turning them into new engineered material that is stronger than oak and harder than maple. Consumers can now drop off their excess unused disposable chopsticks too, located at their micro-factory at 56 Loyang Way. Production then takes place in their micro-factories around the world to produce high-quality, minimalist furniture designed to elevate homes without compromising functionality or style. 

You can find a range of upcycled furniture from phone holders to cheese boards on ChopValue’s online store, or follow their Instagram page to keep up-to-date with their latest news.

Choose Eco-Brands Over Mainstream Products

Practising yoga can help to reduce stress and anxiety by encouraging mindfulness and promoting a sense of relaxation. However, it is also important to be equally mindful of the impact that our fitness routines have on the environment.

Items such as conventional yoga mats, exercise balls, and resistance bands are typically made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is non-biodegradable and difficult to recycle, and can take up to 500 years to break down. They also contain phthalates and other harmful chemicals that are released into the air and the environment over time. 

By using eco-friendly workout gear and making sustainable choices, we can not only improve our own wellbeing but also contribute to a healthier environment. You can start to do so by taking a look at TouchTheToes, a local yoga shop that focuses on supplying sustainable and ethical products to promote an eco-conscious active lifestyle. 

The store stocks yoga mats, workout apparels, and fitness accessories made from organic cotton, natural rubber and recycled plastic bottles. Their signature yoga products are free from synthetic chemicals and provide stronger grip and cushioning – courtesy of natural-occurring properties from components like rubber, cork and jute. 

TouchTheToes’ goal is to ensure that they are neither short-changing their suppliers, nor charging a hefty price tag to their customers. Most of their products are ethically sourced and produced in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – a framework that prioritises responsible consumption, zero poverty and climate action. If you’re looking for new workout wear, why not check out TouchTheToes on their website or Instagram page.

Embark on your zero-waste journey today

As zero-waste practices continue to grow in Singapore, there are many more brands who are providing eco-friendly solutions and alternatives to help you embark on your own environmental journey.

Starting from today, you can make a stand to do your part in reducing waste by checking out these three sustainable living brands for your household essentials. 

If you have enjoyed our monthly blog, you can also stand a chance to win our Facebook and Instagram giveaway too! Simply comment on our giveaway post by answering this question: “Name one of the 3 featured brands in our latest blogpost that advocate zero waste living.” 10 lucky winners will receive a Geneco Green Starter Kit and $30 worth of eCapitaVouchers. Contest ends on 31 May 2023, T&Cs apply.

Let’s continue to #PowerTheChange and embrace a #ZeroWaste lifestyle.