If it becomes all about the packaging There are many factors that determine how sustainable a product is, and packaging is only one of these. It’s what’s in the packaging that makes the…
[Image description]
Photo of bulk food bins. The top row is of the “pull a lever and food comes out” type, while the bottom row has bins with scoops. The photo is too zoomed out for the exact types of food to be identified.
[End image description]
I appreciate how this article mentions that “zero waste” can end up focusing on avoiding disposable packaging to the exclusion of other environmental issues. Something else that I have noticed is that many resources that promote individual efforts to reduce environmental impact do not include the needs of disabled people. I wish that more general-audience media would emphasize that people shouldn’t be pressured to give up things that are necessary for their health even if they are things that non-disabled people don’t need.
It’s relatively easy for me to forgo disposable straws, but many other disabled people need them due to muscle weakness, difficulty holding cups, immunosuppression, or other issues. Other people can make food choices based on environmental impact, but I already have issues with getting enough food due to health related dietary restriction and my eating disorder history. When I am able to walk or take public transit I do so, but when my migraines are at their worst and I need to go more than a few blocks I need to take a Lyft. Even mentioning briefly that health is more important than the environmental impact of one person doing X would help me (and probably other disabled people) feel more included.
