The Lazy Girl’s Guide to a Less Wasteful Existence
Little changes can make a big difference.
I’m lazy. Don’t get me up early. Don’t give me too many things to do per day. Let me meander through life at my own pace.
I’m also a chronic worrier. I freak out about what’s in my food, what’s in my hair products and what’s going to happen to the world if we don’t stop using so much stuff!
Lazy and worried about the environment- how do I manage? With a few easy swaps!
1. Ditch that plastic toothbrush.
You’re supposed to switch out your toothbrush every two to three months- that means throwing the old one into a landfill where it will sit for the rest of your lifetime.
When my toothbrush finally lost its spunk, I searched for a new one made from biodegradable material like bamboo. I got four (a year’s supply) for only $8.00! It will break down in a landfill instead of lasting thousands of years like the old plastic one, and I felt good supporting a company that’s using materials that are better for the environment.
Plus, you don’t have to think about it. Buy it once and don’t worry again until next year.
2. Stop paying for shampoo that comes in dumb plastic bottles.
Sustainable living means shifting away from plastic. It’s made of petroleum, doesn’t degrade in landfills and kills wildlife. Who needs it!?
I don’t make my own shampoo and conditioner (too lazy) but I’ve switched to shampoo and conditioner bars that come in biodegradable packaging. You just run them over your hair from root to tip (they foam nicely) and rinse.
My favorite shampoo bars come from Ethique and they work amazingly. I was honestly not expecting much (I spend money on shampoo, like money) but these things leave my hair so shiny and healthy looking. PLUS they’re all-natural, cruelty-free and I don’t have to feel bad about tossing a plastic bottle when I’m done. Win win win!
Make sure you keep the shampoo bars in their little shower container to minimize loss.
3.Wash your clothes with balls.
Yup. Balls. Beron Laundry Balls.
Again, I wasn’t expecting much from these. Colored balls with ceramic beads inside that you throw into your washing machine with your clothes? What is this witchcraft?
But for the price, I had to try them.
The ultimate test: my son spilled beets on his white cotton dress shirt. I threw it in with the washer ball and some drops of lemon essential oil and the stain was gone. It was magic.
The balls can last up to two years if you take care of them. You have to place them in the sun every so often to “charge” the beads. I don’t understand, I just know after I do this they clean noticeably better.
If you like your clothes to smell nice, just add a few drops of essential oil into the center of the ball before you wash. If you don’t use oils, the clothes still come out clean, they just smell like clothes.
I save tons of money. I don’t have giant plastic bottles to toss in the trash. And detergent generally contains a host of questionable chemicals that are known carcinogens. The balls are all-natural and chemical free.
Win for the lazy gal!
4. Stop with those plug-in things.
I bought an essential oil diffuser and now my house smells amazing without all the side effects of those plug-ins.
Just fill the diffuser to the indicated line with clean water. Add a few drops of essential oils (make sure you do a little research because some oils are better quality than others- I’ve definitely noticed a difference) and turn it on.
No more throw-away cartridges. No more chemical laden gusts when I walk into a room. And it’s fun to learn about the oils and all the health benefits they have on the body.
5. No more paper towels.
I use cloths. It’s not a big deal. Buy some cute ones. They’ll last a long time.
But I can’t buy paper towels anymore. How many trees do you have to cut down to wipe the cookie crumbs off your counter?
Rinse them, use them, wring them. When they get too gross, wash them. It’s really easy. You probably spend more effort going down the paper towel aisle searching for the best deal than just tossing a dish cloth in the wash.
Be lazy about it, the planet will thank you.
6. Don’t let the grocery store give you plastic bags.
I try to bring my own. This is the hardest thing for a lazy person. I don’t want to put them back in the car after I’ve spent all my day’s energy at the grocery store.
So, I leave some scattered in my back seat. And some hanging in hooks next to my front door. If I’m too spacey to grab them on my way out, at least I have some in my car.
And if I forget to bring them into the store, I carry my items if I can or ask for paper bags if worse comes to worse.
Plus, there are some really cute eco-friendly ones out there.
You can be a lazy person and still give a f$&k!
Take a look around your home, in your trash. Look at how much stuff you buy and then throw away. If you kept all your trash bags in your house, how long would it take to fill the whole thing?
We live in an age where we can be lazy and still care about the environment and our impact on it. Make a few little changes and see how fast we can turn it around without even breaking a sweat.
About the Creator
Kelley Zherzhi
Grew up on a steady diet of Tom Robbins and Stephen King.
Spinning tales in the quiet moments between motherhood and building a business.
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Frozen Pipes
As winter temperatures continue to dip across the UK, British Gas has issued a clear warning to households: frozen pipes are becoming an increasingly common and costly problem. While icy mornings may feel familiar, the damage caused by frozen pipes often arrives unexpectedly, disrupting daily life and leading to expensive repairs. The warning serves as a timely reminder that preparing your home for cold weather is not just sensible—it’s essential. Frozen pipes are not a new issue, but changing weather patterns, older housing stock, and rising energy costs have made them a growing concern. British Gas engineers report a surge in callouts every winter, many of which could have been avoided with basic preventative measures. Why Frozen Pipes Are Such a Serious Problem When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands. This expansion puts pressure on the pipe walls, increasing the risk of cracks or bursts. The most dangerous part is that the damage often becomes visible only when the ice melts. Suddenly, water begins leaking—sometimes flooding homes within minutes. According to British Gas, burst pipes are one of the most common causes of winter home emergencies. Repairs can range from simple fixes to major structural work, depending on how quickly the problem is discovered. In severe cases, homeowners may face damaged flooring, ruined furniture, and mould growth long after the pipe itself has been repaired. Which Homes Are Most at Risk? British Gas highlights that certain properties are more vulnerable to frozen pipes than others. Homes with older plumbing systems, poorly insulated lofts, or exposed pipework face a higher risk. Pipes located in garages, basements, lofts, or external walls are particularly susceptible to freezing temperatures. Unoccupied homes are another major concern. When heating systems are switched off entirely—common during holidays or long absences—pipes are left unprotected. British Gas warns that many winter emergencies occur in properties where no one is home to notice the early signs of freezing. The Hidden Cost of Frozen Pipes Beyond the inconvenience, frozen pipes can have significant financial consequences. Emergency callouts, plumbing repairs, and water damage restoration can cost hundreds or even thousands of pounds. Insurance claims may help, but policies often require homeowners to demonstrate that reasonable precautions were taken. British Gas notes that many claims are rejected because homes were left without adequate heating or pipe insulation. This makes prevention not only practical but financially wise. British Gas Advice on Preventing Frozen Pipes To help households avoid winter disasters, British Gas has shared several practical recommendations. These steps are simple, affordable, and effective when taken early. One of the most important tips is maintaining a low, consistent level of heating. Even when you’re away, keeping the thermostat set to a minimum temperature can prevent pipes from freezing. British Gas advises against turning heating off completely during cold spells. Insulating pipes is another key measure. Foam pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install, yet it significantly reduces heat loss. Insulating lofts and water tanks also provides added protection during prolonged cold weather. Letting taps drip slightly during extreme cold can also help. While it may seem wasteful, moving water is less likely to freeze. British Gas suggests this as a short-term solution during severe temperature drops. What to Do If You Suspect a Frozen Pipe Recognising the early signs of frozen pipes can make a big difference. Reduced water flow, strange noises from taps, or visible frost on pipework are all warning signals. British Gas recommends acting quickly if any of these signs appear. The first step is to turn off the water supply to prevent further damage. If it’s safe to do so, gently warming the affected pipe using a hot water bottle, warm towels, or a hairdryer on a low setting may help. Open flames should never be used, as they pose a serious fire risk. If the pipe has burst or you’re unsure how to handle the situation, contacting a qualified engineer is essential. British Gas encourages homeowners not to attempt complex repairs themselves, as improper fixes can worsen the damage. Energy Efficiency and Pipe Protection Go Hand in Hand British Gas also emphasizes that protecting pipes aligns closely with improving overall energy efficiency. Well-insulated homes retain heat better, reducing the strain on heating systems and lowering energy bills. Simple upgrades like draught-proofing doors and sealing gaps around windows can help maintain indoor temperatures and protect pipework. As energy costs remain a concern for many households, British Gas encourages homeowners to view pipe protection as part of a broader approach to winter efficiency. Preventative maintenance today can prevent financial stress tomorrow. A Seasonal Reminder Worth Taking Seriously Frozen pipes may not be the first thing people think about when winter arrives, but British Gas’s warning highlights how quickly a small issue can turn into a major problem. The good news is that most frozen pipe incidents are preventable with foresight and basic home care. By keeping homes heated, insulating vulnerable areas, and staying alert to early warning signs, households can significantly reduce their risk. British Gas’s message is clear: preparation is far easier and cheaper than emergency repairs. As winter continues, taking a few simple steps now can protect your home, your comfort, and your peace of mind—no matter how low the temperature drops.
By Saboor Brohi 8 days ago in Earth
Rubio to Meet Danish Counterpart Next Week Amid Rising Tensions Over Greenland
Senator Marco Rubio, one of the United States’ most influential voices on foreign policy, is scheduled to meet with his Danish counterpart next week to discuss the escalating Greenland crisis. The meeting comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Arctic, where strategic interests, natural resources, and geopolitical maneuvering have turned the region into a flashpoint between global powers. Rubio’s upcoming discussions in Copenhagen highlight the United States’ concern over Greenland’s growing geopolitical significance. The Arctic island, while sparsely populated, sits atop vast mineral reserves and plays a critical role in transatlantic security. Denmark, which maintains sovereignty over Greenland, has increasingly found itself at the center of debates over foreign investment, security alliances, and the influence of countries such as China and Russia in the region. Greenland: A Strategic Prize The Arctic has long been considered a frontier of strategic importance. With melting ice opening new shipping routes and access to untapped natural resources, Greenland has moved from a remote territory to a focal point of global attention. For the United States, maintaining influence over Greenland is not just about economic interests—it’s a matter of national security. Military analysts have pointed out that Greenland’s location is critical for monitoring missile activity and for establishing early warning systems. U.S. officials have voiced concern that without a solid diplomatic and strategic partnership with Denmark, Greenland could become vulnerable to foreign influence that runs counter to American interests. Rubio’s meeting seeks to reaffirm U.S. commitments to Denmark while ensuring that Greenland’s strategic positioning aligns with shared Western priorities. The Current Crisis The so-called Greenland crisis has been fueled by several recent developments. Reports of increased Chinese investment in mining projects and infrastructure, as well as discussions of potential Russian interests, have sparked unease in Washington. While Denmark maintains administrative control over Greenland, the island enjoys a degree of autonomy, particularly in economic matters. This semi-independence has created a delicate balancing act for Danish leaders, who must reconcile Greenland’s economic ambitions with broader security concerns. Diplomatic sources suggest that Rubio will raise these points during his meetings, emphasizing the need for transparency and cooperation in Greenland’s economic and security decisions. “We are looking at a situation where strategic partnerships must be strengthened to safeguard both national and regional interests,” a source close to the senator said. Denmark’s Position Denmark has historically managed Greenland’s affairs with a careful approach, respecting the island’s autonomy while ensuring that strategic decisions do not compromise the kingdom’s security obligations. Copenhagen has been wary of any moves that could be perceived as overreach by external powers. However, Danish officials also recognize the need to balance Greenlandic economic development with defense commitments to NATO and the broader Western alliance. “The Arctic is not just about resources—it’s about alliances, responsibilities, and ensuring that Greenland’s growth does not undermine collective security,” said a Danish diplomat. Rubio’s visit is therefore expected to be both a reaffirmation of U.S.-Danish ties and an opportunity to coordinate policy responses to external pressures in the Arctic. Broader Implications The Greenland crisis illustrates the shifting dynamics of global politics in the Arctic. With climate change accelerating ice melt, previously inaccessible areas are now opening to international competition. Shipping lanes, mineral extraction, and energy resources are increasingly contested, making strategic cooperation between allies like the U.S. and Denmark more crucial than ever. For the United States, ensuring that Greenland remains aligned with Western strategic interests is paramount. Rubio’s engagement with Danish officials signals a commitment to proactive diplomacy, aiming to preempt any unilateral moves by other powers in the region. Analysts suggest that this approach could serve as a model for handling Arctic issues more broadly, combining respect for sovereignty with strategic foresight. Political Context Rubio’s involvement in Arctic affairs is consistent with his broader foreign policy focus, which emphasizes countering adversaries while strengthening alliances. The Greenland crisis is one of several areas where the senator has sought to assert influence, reflecting a broader U.S. strategy to maintain leadership in contested regions. Critics, however, argue that such interventions can strain relationships with local authorities and risk being perceived as heavy-handed. Balancing strategic priorities with respect for Greenland’s autonomy will be a central theme in the upcoming discussions. Observers will be watching closely to see whether the meeting strengthens U.S.-Danish cooperation or exposes fractures in alliance cohesion. Looking Ahead Next week’s meeting promises to be a critical moment in U.S.-Danish relations. Rubio is expected to discuss a range of issues, from military cooperation and infrastructure security to investment transparency and regional governance. While details of the agenda remain confidential, the broader goal is clear: to ensure that Greenland’s strategic importance does not become a source of tension between allies or an opportunity for rival powers. As Arctic geopolitics continues to evolve, the outcome of these discussions could shape policies for years to come. Greenland’s unique position—geographically remote yet globally significant—makes it a bellwether for how nations navigate the complexities of sovereignty, security, and economic opportunity in a rapidly changing world. Ultimately, Rubio’s diplomatic efforts underscore a central truth: in today’s interconnected world, even the most distant territories can have outsized impact on international relations. Greenland may be remote, but its role in the unfolding Arctic story is anything but marginal. The coming week in Copenhagen will be closely watched by policymakers, analysts, and the global media as the U.S. and Denmark work to navigate this delicate crisis together.
By Muhammad Hassan4 days ago in Earth
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