11 Inspiring Zero-Waste Experts to Follow on Instagram
Discover leading zero-waste advocates on Instagram, each redefining sustainable living through daily actions, innovation, and community building.
The global zero-waste movement is more than a trend—it’s a collective shift in attitude, habit, and ingenuity, driven by individuals sharing actionable ways to reduce waste and care for the environment. Instagram, with its diverse voices and visual narratives, has become a powerful platform for advocates to spread the message. This article introduces you to 11 inspiring zero-waste experts on Instagram whose creativity, knowledge, and authenticity empower followers to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. Each profile uniquely contributes to redefining what it means to live waste-free, regardless of where you start.
Why Follow Zero-Waste Experts on Instagram?
Adopting a zero-waste lifestyle can feel daunting, but social media connects us with people who turn challenges into opportunities. Instagram experts share:
- Day-to-day tips for minimizing waste at home and on the go
- Clever DIYs and upcycling inspiration
- Real-life stories from personal zero-waste journeys
- Local and global advocacy for policy and collective action
Following their journeys provides practical guidance as well as reassurance that small actions add up.
1. Andrea Sanders (@bezerowastegirl)
Andrea Sanders encourages people to reduce waste by simplifying life. Her feed is a balance of:
- Minimalist living advice
- Guides on starting a zero-waste journey, even in small steps
- Down-to-earth challenges (like plastic-free months)
- Emphasis on the mental benefits of decluttering
Andrea makes the movement accessible for everyone, focusing on progress over perfection. Her posts break down sustainable swaps and remind us that habits—not products—create meaningful change.
2. Shia Su (@wastelandrebel)
Author of the popular book “Zero Waste: Simple Life Hacks to Drastically Reduce Your Trash”, Shia Su is praised for her pragmatic, science-backed approach. On Instagram, she:
- Shares DIY tutorials for everyday products (like deodorant and cleaning sprays)
- Offers honest glimpses into imperfect zero-waste efforts
- Promotes activism for waste management system reforms
- Explains how every small refusal helps reduce the global trash burden
Her engaging infographics and myth-busting posts help demystify the movement.
3. Anne-Marie Bonneau (@zerowastechef)
Anne-Marie Bonneau is known for her approachable take on zero-waste cooking and food preservation. Her Instagram is a resource for:
- Creative recipes using food scraps, peels, and stems
- Homemade sourdough, ferments, and pantry staples
- Waste-reducing shopping tips (from bulk buys to seasonal produce)
- Promoting the idea that “progress, not perfection” matters most
Anne-Marie’s kitchen wisdom proves that home cooking is both sustainable and delicious—and that reducing waste often saves money.
4. Lauren Singer (@trashisfortossers)
Widely recognized for fitting years of trash into a single mason jar, Lauren Singer documents her zero-waste journey from its early days. Her feed includes:
- Product swaps for reusable, non-toxic alternatives
- Zero-waste home care and cleaning routines
- Lifestyle vignettes showing how sustainability integrates into urban life
- Practical resources for starting your own journey without feeling overwhelmed
What others are reading
She also founded Package Free Shop, offering solutions for those seeking to minimize their waste footprint.
5. Celia Ristow (@litterless)
Celia Ristow focuses on fostering inclusive, community-driven approaches to zero waste, making the movement less intimidating. She shares:
- Local waste reduction programs and meetups
- Guides for making sustainable living work in cities and small towns alike
- Encouragement for collective, rather than individual, action
- Educational content about the benefits of local composting and repair initiatives
Celia’s content highlights that zero-waste living is possible anywhere, for anyone, and that incremental changes accumulate real impact.
6. Kathryn Kellogg (@going.zero.waste)
Kathryn Kellogg is celebrated for blending a hopeful attitude with relatable how-tos. Using her platform, she offers:
- Realistic, low-pressure tips for reducing plastic and single-use items
- Personal challenges and eco-hacks (like homemade toothpaste)
- Discussions on the environmental and health impacts of waste
- Guidance on influencing policy and supporting change beyond the home
Her focus on convenience and practicality dismantles the myth that sustainability is complicated or expensive.
7. Bea Johnson (@zerowastehome)
Often credited as the “godmother of the zero-waste movement,” Bea Johnson pioneered many habits now considered standard among advocates. Her Instagram teaches followers how to:
- Apply her “5 R’s” (Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rot)
- Transform minimalist routines into powerful, lifelong habits
- Adapt waste-free strategies for families and frequent travelers
Her posts are global in reach and adaptable to diverse lifestyles.
8. Immy Lucas (@sustainably_vegan)
A proponent of both planet-friendly eating and consumption habits, Immy Lucas uses her Instagram to highlight:
- Plant-based recipes focusing on low waste and seasonal produce
- Advice on simplifying personal care and clothing routines
- Easy-to-understand guides on living less wastefully in urban settings
She provides relatable advice for anyone exploring how a plant-based lifestyle fits within a zero-waste ethos.
9. Ariana Schwarz (@paris.to.go)
Based in Paris, Ariana Schwarz documents practical and affordable zero-waste living in a metropolitan context. Her feed features:
- Budget-friendly zero-waste tips for big-city dwellers
- Spotlights on local bulk stores, refill stations, and repair cafes
- Reflections on sustainable travel and conscious consumption abroad
Ariana’s honest voice assures followers that you don’t have to live off the grid to have an impact.
10. Max La Manna (@maxlamanna)
Max La Manna, chef, writer, and food waste advocate, stands out with his energetic, hands-on approach to sustainable eating. On Instagram, he shares:
- Delicious recipes for leftover and “imperfect” foods
- Tutorials for eating ethically at home and when dining out
- Engaging videos explaining why food waste is a critical climate issue
His mission is to show that reducing food waste doesn’t require sacrificing flavor or enjoyment.
11. Gittemary Johansen (@gittemary)
Gittemary Johansen is known for her energetic, humorous take on zero waste. Her Instagram offers:
- Straightforward how-tos and honest recaps of eco-failures
- Insightful posts about upcycling, secondhand fashion, and van life
- Advice for making low-waste living accessible, regardless of budget or background
Gittemary embodies the message that embracing zero waste should be fun and approachable.
Zero-Waste Tips from the Experts
- Start with one change at a time—such as switching to a reusable water bottle or carrying your shopping bag
- Compost if you can: food scraps make up a large portion of household waste
- Shop in bulk and favor package-free groceries when possible
- Repair, swap, or donate clothing and electronics instead of discarding
- Try making simple home cleaners and body care products from pantry staples
Common Challenges & Solutions
Adopting zero-waste habits can come with obstacles. Here’s how these experts respond:
| Challenge | Expert Approach |
|---|---|
| No bulk stores nearby | Use local farmers’ markets, prioritize products in recyclable packaging, or champion new bulk options in your area |
| Time constraints | Batch-cook, meal plan, and choose manageable swaps (e.g., bar soap over bottled) |
| Budget barriers | Focus on reusing and repairing before buying new; start with changes that save money, like making your own cleaners |
| Motivation | Follow online communities for support and ideas, celebrate small wins |
Zero Waste, One Step at a Time
The zero-waste journey is deeply personal and shaped by your circumstances, but a few guiding principles emerge from these experts:
- Be gentle on yourself—progress over perfection
- Actions are more important than aesthetics or buying new “eco” products
- Engage with your community to multiply your impact
- Stay curious and open to learning
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I start living zero-waste if I can’t make big changes right away?
Begin by swapping out single-use items for reusables you already own. Try refusing plastic bags, straws, and cutlery. Make one small change at a time, and gradually build up from there. Each action counts.
Is it expensive to be zero-waste?
Unlike popular belief, zero-waste living often saves money. By buying less, repairing more, and prioritizing essentials over “must-have” eco-products, many find their budgets remain intact or even shrink.
What if my family or roommates aren’t supportive?
Lead by example and share helpful tips without pressure. Involve them in small, enjoyable swaps like cooking meals together or going to a farmers’ market. Change is easier when shared and made fun.
Where can I find more resources for reducing waste?
These Instagram experts often link to blogs, books, podcasts, and downloadable guides. You can also find local zero-waste groups and community events to connect offline.
Final Thoughts: Inspiration in Action
Following zero-waste experts on Instagram isn’t just about pretty photos—it’s about real transformation. Each account offers tangible steps, emotional encouragement, and honest insight into setbacks. There’s no one way to do zero-waste: all backgrounds, budgets, and lifestyles can make an impact. The most important thing is to begin and keep learning along the way.
Ready to take your next step? Start by following one or more of these experts, join the conversation, and remember: every bit of waste avoided adds up to a healthier planet.
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