Zero Waste Living Guidance

Thank you for the critical clarification. The distinction between "no plastics" and "no materials that leach bio-destructive particles" is essential for a true zero-waste ethos. You're right to be concerned about so-called "inert" materials and greenwashed products. The precautionary principle is the only safe approach.

Bio-Destructive Materials and Particles (The "No" List)

Plastics and Synthetic Polymers:

• All plastics and synthetic polymers (e.g., PET, HDPE, PVC, PP, PS)

• Phthalates

• BPA (Bisphenol A)

• BPS, BPF (BPA alternatives)

• PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)

• Microplastics, Nanoplastics, Ultrafine Particles (UFP)

• Dioxins and Furans (byproducts)

• Plant-based synthetics (e.g., PLA, PHA, bio-PET)

• Color-added silicone (speculated)

Metals and Inorganic Materials:

• Aluminum

• Heavy metals (Lead, Mercury, Cadmium)

• Asbestos

• Silicosis-causing dust/particles

Food Additives, Pharmaceuticals, and Industrial Byproducts:

• BHA/BHT (Butylated hydroxyanisole/hydroxytoluene)

• Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO)

• Artificial Dyes (e.g., Red 40, Yellow 5)

• Artificial Sweeteners (e.g., Aspartame)

• Nitrates/Nitrites (in processed meats)

• PBDEs (Polybrominated diphenyl ethers, flame retardants)

• PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)

Safe, Non-Leaching Materials (The "Yes" List)

• Glass:

  • Borosilicate glass

  • Soda-lime glass

• Metals:

  • Food-grade Stainless Steel (304, 316)

  • Cast Iron

  • Untreated Copper (with caution for acidic foods)

• Stone and Ceramic:

  • Natural Stone (e.g., granite, slate)

  • Unglazed, food-safe Ceramics

  • High-quality, non-toxic Glazed Ceramics

• Wood and Plant Materials:

  • Untreated Wood

  • Bamboo

  • Cork

  • Natural Rubber (from Hevea brasiliensis)

  • Coconut fiber

• Fabrics and Textiles:

  • Natural cotton

  • Hemp

  • Linen

  • Wool

  • TENCEL™ Lyocell (made with a closed-loop solvent process)

• Other Natural Materials:

  • Natural Beeswax (for food wraps)

  • Shells (e.g., mother of pearl)

  • Hide/Leather (vegetable-tanned only)

  • Pure, uncolored, and food-grade Silicone (with verification of no fillers/additives)

Essential Sensors for Every Home

• Air Quality Sensors:

  • Particulate Matter (PM) Sensors: PM1, PM2.5, PM10

  • Ultrafine Particle (UFP) Sensors: For particles < 0.1 µm

  • Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Sensors

  • Lead and Heavy Metal Analyzers (airborne)

  • Carbon Monoxide/Dioxide (CO/CO2) Monitors

• Water Quality Sensors:

  • Lead and Heavy Metal Detectors

  • pH and Hardness Monitors

  • Fluoride and Chlorine Monitors

• Surface Contamination Kits:

  • Lead Swabs/Testing Kits

  • Radon Detectors (for basements)