Vlogbrothers had a great video about the individual/company debate. Hank said the recent data showed the more individual changes people made, the more likely companies and governments were to make systemic changes. Made me feel much better about fighting for both
Me too! It made me really realize that it's a supply and demand situation. If they continue to demand plastic items, they'll keep supplying them - if we don't, they won't! It's kinda about bending capitalism slowly to our will haha
Finally someone said it. When you kept talking about mascara in non-plastic tubes I kept thinking about just one packet of cheese having the same amount of plastic.
Oh my GOSH, I got so excited about the ZAO brand and thought "But it's probably a brand that will have to ship from the UK, I'll go to their website to see but it's gonna probably cost a lot in shipping fees." WHEN I TELL YOU I GAGGED. I live in Switzerland and it's actually a swiss brand and they sell it in a drugstore 10 minutes from my house, that is open 24/7. Hell yeah if that's not a sign I don't know what is ahah
Little tiny yet therapeutic thing we can do to reduce carbon emissions is to delete our emails! The data stored to keep emails in our inbox/email accounts uses tons of carbon emissions to keep them stored. Delete your unnecessary emails, unsubscribe from all that marketing nonsense, and put things in folders so you know what doesn't need deleting. Listen to an audiobook or podcast while you do it and embrace the freedom of a clean inbox. Woo boy, it feels good. Also, loved the talk in this video, thanks Leena. x
Leena, I have to be honest, your videos have been recommended to me for maybe around a year now, but I only subscribed about a month ago. When I first saw them I thought, nah, not interesting to me. Then it turned into, I don't want to hear the lecture this tree hugger wants to give me. Because truly, I felt guilty about my lifestyle and didn't want to be called out on it. I want to eat meat and buy clothes as and when I want, from wherever I want. But you and your message has finally started to percolate into my brain. Over the past month or two I've definitely started to have a more conscious mindset about the things I buy and the things I throw away. I'm absolutely by no means perfect, but it's a start, and I truly have to thank you for it. You're making great content and doing great things. Thank you!
I think the biggest area I've ever reduced plastic is replacing my period routine with fabric reusable pads and a moon cup. I used to have to wear panty liners every day, but since switching I havent bought a single period item for OVER A YEAR! it's legit insane how much money and plastic I've saved and they absolutely should be selling reusable pads in super markets, it's absolutely wild that they dont.
Yes, I'd say this is probably my biggest reduction too. I've used a mooncup for about 13 years, have replaced it twice in that time and collected a few fabric pads. I haven't bought anything else in all that time except an emergency pack of plastic pads that I had to buy while out one day, the majority of which have sat in my bathroom cabinet for years and moved house with me twice 🤣 I'd quite like to try the 'period pants' for lighter days too but would never ever go back to crunchy, sweaty bits of plastic 😣 If teenagers were taught about the alternatives (cloth pads, moon cups, period underwear) right from the start then it wouldn't seem alternative, or gross. A tampon or basically a plastic nappy seems much more gross to me now!
When I switched to reusable pads, it brought home to me how crap the plastic ones can be - I used to get so dry after wearing one all day, and haven't had that problem since switching to fabric ones about 5 years ago. And my god, all sanitary products need to be F R E E like *yesterday*
I've been using a moon cup for almost 6 years now, I think, and although it's just soo practical not to have to buy pads every time and it has allowed me to reduce my period-related waste and budget so much, it is also a whole other bother for me when I have my periods (mostly because my periods changed som cuh other the years). I can't be bothered to sterilize my cup, nor to put it inside my body when it already hurts so much, so I mostly use fabric pads, but then I have to wash and dry them (as a student in a very humid flat, it's nearly impossible) and wash them before next cycle. So I have to coordinate with myself a bit there, and it's incredibly annoying sometimes. (I have almost run short of underwear for the sake of washing my pads with the rest of my laundry and not just by hands). So I find myself going back to disposable pads, with tells me that I need to buy more fabric pads, I think.
one of your best positive panic videos. you have a knack for diffusing issues so theyre less frightening, but that makes the steps to combat them more approachable. im going to be more committed to zero waste in future
Aw thank you that means a lot! Nice comments like this and lovely reactions to the series I've had in the past help me feel like I can keep making them, even if they (or I) are not perfect. x
I like your perspective on changing routines to use less plastic to “stay angry” and remind us what it’s all about, almost likening it to religious objects and reminders. I sometimes struggle with the whole “one metal straw won’t save the turtles and just makes us all lazy and complacent for taking the easy way out and not enacting real change” mentality, but I like your perspective on reimagining using eco tools as a reminder to keep doing the hard work rather than just settling for that eco purchase “scratching the itch” on the ol’ environmental conscience. I’ll think about this and how I want to put it into my life. Thanks, Leena!
9:45 when I got into eyeshadow after years of only dealing with watercolor pigments, I was shocked and horrified that buying individual colours in person is near impossible! Down with pallets!!!
Hi Leena! I am reading "We Are the Weather" as per your recommendation. The bit about how changing our lives won't be a sacrifice if we get to continue our lives is especially seasonable during this pandemic. Your big sister vibes are immaculate and I want you to know you are helping me to live my life on purpose. Thanks for your impact!
I feel like as a working class and low income person, zero waste make up routines are goals for the privileged. Personally, I haven't worn makeup for years because I can't afford it which is truly 'zero waste'. Off the back of that, I think these kinds of eco routine changes for consumption is a responsibility for the middle class and above. If I don't wear makeup because I can't afford it, if I still shop at Iceland, because it's what I can afford, I don't want to feel guilty over things I can't change when there's a privileged class that can afford to make those changes for now. Thank you for the vid Leena ❤️
I agree with this - I finally threw out my unused make up about 6 months ago (full disclosure I tried to recycle most of it, The Body Shop have a recycling scheme if anyone wants to do the same). I thought about replacing it, but I honestly barely wear it, and it's not worth the cost/waste for "special occasions". As a middle-class woman, I agree that this video should be seen as helpful for those who like/can afford makeup, and optional for everyone else
Seeing the mascara tin reminded me of a story of my Great Aunt Janice. When she was a teenager in the 60’s (I believe) she and her friends would stand in the tiny little British bathroom all doing their makeup and sharing what they had. When they did mascara they’d each spit in the tin to make it a paste and when they were done and the next person started their make up she’d use the mascara too. So that was probably a germ ridden container by the end of the night. But she had good nights out with her friends so maybe we can forgive her for that
In terms of making swaps and staying angry - ethical consumer! So many league tables and such good information about what companies are up to. I am always fascinated by what they have to say and it is so underrated.
I think sometimes all environmental issues get lumped together, and while it's really important to reduce plastic pollution I do question if switching from plastic to glass packaging is more damaging from a global warming perspective as they take more energy and resources to produce and transport. Agree that pencils and powders are the future though! I like that they don't go bad as quickly as liquids so don't need to be replaced as often
This. Also compounded by the problem of everyone having different recycling systems with different rules depending on where you are (and, let's be honest, what your government finds the most affordable/profitable). Not just by country or state, but also county to county or city to city.
I have had one those moments at target when I walk down a whole aisle that’s full of decorative cheap Knick knacks that have no function and I thought wow this kind of horrifies me but just yesterday I wanted these things 😅
I feel like there might be an argument to use more powder products in general bc they stay "fresh" and usable much longer, while creamy or liquid products tend to turn thicker/dryer and less easy to use after a while and so I end up not using up the entire amount.
A note on fish consumption that might be useful for some folks!: Plastic use in the fishing industry is awful, but it’s also important to remember that for some being completely vegan isn’t possible, and if you’re going to be eating meat, fish might still be a more sustainable choice than other forms of meat (ex. beef, pork, etc) especially when it comes to CO2 production, depending on farming practices where you live. If you are planning to have fish in your diet, try to buy fish species that are lower on the food chain (they require fewer resources) or ones that are locally farmed through sustainable aquaculture. You can generally find out a farm’s environmental practices on their website. Aquaculture is by no means free of environmental harm, but it is improving! If you live somewhere with a local aquaculture industry, as I do in Canada, send them a letter to request more sustainable practices! While you’re at it, also send some letters to your local ocean fisheries, and tell them to stop using practices that generate plastic waste!
@@CS-nw9si possible, but still not possible for everyone. For example, some people have disabilities that make it difficult to eat vegan (e.g., rely on carers or ready meals with tight budgets, are unable to safely digest lots of food types, or have sensory aversions to certain food types), it also might not be safe for people recovering from EDs to fully adopt veganism.
such a good video. a great mix between "heres what you, the consumer, can do" and "hey maybe get the big guys to play along". i always feel like that's something we forget, the fact that we can and SHOULD write to the producers, tapping them on the shoulders and nagging them about "hey hey hey hey hey how about you change this and that abt your product". politicians as well.
I get so mad when I see fresh fruit and vegetables starting to get packaged in plastic at the store. On the positive side, they are currently trialing BYO containers for the deli items (pre-shaved ham, salami, olives etc) so that's nice...
I think it's really easy to fall into the trap of thinking 'well the biggest environmental issues are not my fault and I have very little control over them' and using that as an excuse to consume as normal (I have been guilty of this in the past) when actually while that is true we can make better/more sustainable choices as consumers and also recognise that pressure on institutions is what will make the biggest difference. So I'm off to look at plastic free mascaras lol.
the one thing that saved my sanity when it comes to my main frivolity being makeup was depotting my cardboard eyeshadow pallettes (i do not have the guts to go at my plastic one yet) and putting everything in magnetic palettes. from now on i can always just take a look at what i have, curate own color stories and actively decide the individual shadows that i might want to add instead of ever being tempted by a pre-made palette again. also, magnetic pallettes and tools are super nice to find second hand, i got all of mine through ebay, some even for pickup in my city And, if you really wanna level up your possibilities, get a mixing medium. they turn any powder into eyeliner and revive any old/drying out pot product which means i not only stop buying colorful eyeliners but also get to use up all that i buy
The most eco friendly thing to do is often to not buy anything and use what you have. Which isn’t as fun as going out and buying eco-swaps. It also feels much less active of a choice. It’s a weird psychology thing. We’re so trained to solve problems with shopping that when the solution is quite the opposite it feels alien.
I completely agree with all of the above and try and reduce plastic in my life BUT I also highly recommend people check out George Monbiot's rant on 'micro consumerist bollocks' MCB. Essentially saying these can be distractions to tackling the real systemic issues, or even people will do these things to feel good and like they're doing enough and then not think twice about driving to the shops or flying for holidays... But Leena does a great job of keeping the bigger picture in mind as well and I thought it was really interesting to see how she uses these tools as prompts for bigger action
Loved this, definitely going to be seeking out alternatives as my current stash runs out. Though something I have noticed recently is how so many eco-alternatives are mainly targeted at people who at non-men. I understand socially we are in general encouraged to use more cosmetics but would be interested to see how marketing teams would approach involving more male targeted toiletries.
I feel so much guilt in my day to day. I’ve definitely taken steps and will continue to do so. In my opinion though It’s not right that the government puts the responsability onto the individual when 75% of emissions come from the same 100 companies. Very twisted what’s happening :(
Something really interesting I read or heard about this though is that if we stop shopping from so many large corps they won’t create those emissions. E.g. switching your energy supplier, not buying fast fashion. No companies, no emissions x
One plastic product that grinds my gears is raspberry containers. It is 100% thick and durable plastic. And single-use. I love raspberries, so I, unfortunately, buy them a lot, and the plastic waste that I cause from this sole product alone is astronomical. This is something that could easily be replaced by cardboard boxes, or wax paper boxes. *sigh*
Your voice is always so calming to listen to and your “positive panic” helps me be more positive while taking more realistic steps to help the planet. A lot of your videos don’t technically apply to me, like I don’t wear makeup, but I love all of them and always still feel like I’ve learned something. Just wanted to say thank you :)
Love love LOVE this video!! I find the line between individual responsibility vs larger corporate violations so interesting. My zero-ish waste bathroom is something I’m definitely so proud of but I always felt that the plastic my food comes in is just out of my control. You brought up so many amazing points and I’m so thankful you make this kind of content. I definitely experience climate overwhelm but your videos help me to stay pissed off at the world but in a manageable way! Sending love xx
Mascara recommendation: I’m a sucker for the Lush lashes mascara. It fits into the lush bring back scheme. There’s a vegan and vegetarian version. I love it.
Comment for the algorithm, love everything about this and I really appreciate how accessible your content is Leena. I think a lot of low waste/zero waste content feels too aspirational but yours feels way more realistic.
I was so surprised to see Aldi ranking highly in the supermarkets - I can never find loose/unpackaged fruit and veg there…but maybe it’s a sign of how bad the others are, and not how good Aldi is?!
haha most probably! The unpackaged stuff changes from shop to shop I've found, but their vegan stuff comes in just a cardboard box, no plastic at all :) SMALL TINY WINS.
I use the Bésame Cosmetics cake mascara as an eyeliner too by using the old felt tip from my old pen eyeliner that dried up. When I use it up, I can just buy a replacement cake mascara. Great stuff.
YES to magnetic pallettes! Since really starting with single eyeshadows I am so not interested in big "finished"/premade pallettes. Thanks for this video!
I've found with a lot of plastic free make up that the shades aren't always the best... like a lot of companies run pretty dark which is great but it's the undertones which are really off sometimes 😬
The difficulty in cardboard eyeshadow palettes is that the mirror and magnets make them really hard to recycle. I love single refill eyeshadows and If you love eyeshadows in palette form, I really recommend athr beauty
If you can't afford plastic free makeup you can buy second hand makeup which is often brand new on places like vinted and depop, even though you will still have plastic waste at the end of it you won't be supporting the production of plastic products and you will be using products that may otherwise not be used. It's also good if you like a brand who isn't cruelty free as you won't be supporting them
Great to keep thinking about this! Let’s not forget that often the environmental impact that we don’t see (manufacturing emissions, transport etc) is often many times that of packaging! Very hard to quantify
I love your perspective and I wish I could do some more to improve my make-up routine. I'm from Mexico and sustainable products are either really expensive (I can't afford them at all) or they are made without any quality control so they can be even dangerous for the skin, however, there are always ways, like preferring pencil lipsticks than plastic, etc. I love your videos because you make me feel that my small efforts have meaning. Thanks!
Really good chat towards the end about staying pissed off, and yes one person changing to a metal straw or whatever isn’t going to solve the climate crisis, but the important thing is that these consumer choices signal strongly to businesses that “the public” wants something, and then the government regulation follows. Of course we wish the government would lead but we know better than that at this point. We are voting for change with our money, and that’s all our wastrel politicians seem to care about.
In this capitalist hellscape, what we choose to buy *does* have a sort of power. Is it just corporations that need to change or just individuals? As with many things, the answer lies somewhere in the middle. I worry that too many people are hiding behind the "corporations need to change" as an excuse to not take a hard look at the way they are doing things. If we are going shimmy our way out of this whole crisis, every person that has the ability and means to make changes, needs to make those changes. And buy less. And vote. Apologies for the rant :)
some easy ways to make your makeup bag less wasteful are to keep parts of the products that are designed to be thrown away, if you clean a mascara wand it makes a great eyebrow spooly and you can keep eyeliner brushes from liquid eyeliners to use for other parts of your makeup routine
Personally, I can't see myself getting much eco-make up in the next couple of years. But that's not because I have anything against it, quite the opposite. It's because I don't use make up all that often and also have so much unused but usable make up I have been gifted in the past that I am using up first. After all it makes neither fiscal nor ecological sense to throw that away and buy new.
Me too! Personally, I don't enjoy the feeling of having makeup on my face, so I just don't wear it. I only have makeup for performance reasons, and prefer expressing myself through my hair and my clothing. However, years from now when I do need new makeup I would love to explore the magnetic/in the pan option. I only use a couple of colors anyway, so then I can try buying only the colors I want without unecessary extra colors from that palette.
I agree about putting it in perspective - the only make up I replace really regularly is mascara and I've yet to find an alternative I like. But I don't beat myself up as there are definitely other areas (food) where I could make a much bigger impact. I also find that a lot of the 'green' brands have major drawbacks ingredient-wise - the no preservatives thing is a problem for me as is the use of essential oils that can be very irritating. I like the Lily Lolo mineral foundation and they now do refills so you don't have to keep buying the plastic tub. I'd be interested in trying that concealer, pencils are awesome. If anyone else has tried it let me know if you liked it 😊
Love to learn about some other brands I’ve not heard of before. Having worked for a major supermarket, and being directly tasked with reducing the plastic in the packaging I can confirm it’s not a case of “not being bothered” to do it or just not. Yes profit seems to be the issue. A lot of them want to “do the right thing” but not compromise profit.. which is probably at 50% anyway. Uphill battle even within the company, without the government picking arbitrary figures out the air as committing to. Mindset shift desperately needed.
Yeah I've totally been in those bureaucratic meetings before, I think a lot of the problem is the way companies are often structured: shareholders are promised profit, at any cost, and it's them everyone's trying to answer to. Sometimes I think it should either be our mission to change shareholders' minds (god knows how we go about getting to them) or create laws that prevent profit without responsible business practices. They both feel impossible right now, but here's hoping! x
@@leenanorms Wouldn't that be wonderful if rich people were actually willing to be slightly less rich! haha Would also add, the figures put in place by the government aren't realistically possisble to achieve. They won't have consulted with anyone from the packagaing industries to learn that the ideal alternative will take a few years to develop, so it't not possible to commit sooner. However a lot of products are way ahead of target.. not that you'd know. Making green claims can be a risk so lots of businesses opt out and customers don't see the full extent. Greenpeace's figures come from topline, often annual, data. I've had a mailing list email from them targeting a product Ive worked hard to successfully change. I'd take it with a pinch.
For me going low waste was more about comforting my own anxieties than making a huge change. At the end of the day I can say I'm doing what I can and that's what matters to me. And being able to say that to the next generation too
I would also look into plastic that is *in* makeup. Microplastics in the water supply is about to be a problem in a big way and I actually read that like 99% of lush products contain microplastics - PVP specifically. This website that I’m sourcing from called beat the micro bead says that in fact 79% of products contain microplastics 😬 your video made me curious to look it up and I’m glad it did!
I’ve been working on moving some of my previous common purchases to resources that are less plastic filled or otherwise eco-friendly, but because I’m not a big makeup user, I hadn’t really considered swapping out the products I use in that front. My biggest recent change was getting rid of liquid clothes detergent and the next time we get our dishwasher detergent, I want to see what store will have powder instead of the pouches or liquid detergent who uses more plastic. When we had to replace out dishwasher we opted for a low energy one, and out replaced fridge also has a pretty high energy savings as well.
I don't wear much makeup but I love the idea of the magnetic pans!!! I have a few eyeshadow palettes where I like just a few of the colors so it would be great to customize my makeup palette. Once I've gone through the eyeshadow I have now I will definitely look into going this route. Thanks Leena!
This video was brilliant Leena!!! As someone who doesn’t use that much make up, the extra pieces of advice on how to help reduce plastic consumption was really helpful. You’ve got me writing to my local MP, and now I’m going to watch the climate documentary you mentioned Thank you for your positive influence xx
Every time someone mentions a mooncup I want to cry. The mooncup is the best thing I have ever used. Unfortunately, after a few months of using it I pulled out my coil while removing my mooncup. I had two doctors telling me this is very common, despite cup manufacturers claiming it's rare. I was so in love with the cup that I tried three different ones of different textures but always started to pull my coil over time. Please DO Use a cup if you can but also please be very careful if you have a coil. And if you are a cup company, pleaaaase find a solution for people with coils. 😭
Just bought a sample of the Love the Planet mineral foundation, I'm also terrified of putting powder on my face but ready to be baffled by powder that changes texture as it blends in!! :D
About the section on waste, I would highly recommend The Story of Stuff which has a huge emphasis on waste management and the impacts on ecotoxicology and oppressed communities. I learned a lot from that book and it provides solutions to the linear economy we live in.
On the lush concealer mine came very smushed because I bought it off of someone on vinted however this meant that I scraped it into a lush sample pot and it makes it so much more usable! It’s not a great pot concealer :)
Hi Leena! I don't wear makeup, though if I did start, would definitely look into your recommendations! You are so stunning! Love the style of your videos. This is brilliant...especially all of the facts you have brought to attention.
Not to mention there's something like 100 companies on the planet who account for most of the plastic and we as consumers cannot alone make much of a difference *screams internally*
I loved this video! The reassuring content of watching someone do their makeup video whilst laying down some world saving points. I've been vegan 5 years for the planet and as a few other comments have said my main focus has been a gradual move to vegan/cruelty free beauty/cleaning products but I've not considered the use of plastic as much. I find if I think too hard about some purchases my anger is overwhelming so sometimes I often find it easier to put my blinkers on (especially when it comes to fresh food). You'd think vegan/CF companies would also put a huge focus on their packaging! So many thoughts - thanks for your fabulous content 😘💞🦋
Leena this video was brilliant!!!!! As someone who doesn’t use that much make up, the extra pieces of advice in how to reduce our plastic consumption was really appreciated. I’ve just written to my local MP, thank you for your positive influence xxx
Love my magnetic palettes a regularly dupe new releases with my Costal scents hot pots (single eyeshadows) sadly coastal scents are out of business! Joined ProjectPannLadies on facebook who encourage eachother to pann or use up their current purchases and to buy buy!
I'm not as much into makeup, but I tried switching to all vegan, cruelty-free, plastic-free/reduced skincare, and I ended up with a huge acne problem... even after spending days researching a good brand! It is frustrating how hard it is to do the right thing and find a product that works.
Can I ask what brands you tried? Finding skincare that works for you is a challenge whether is cruelty free or not. I watch cassandra bankson on youtube whos a skincare expert, i highly recommend her. She picks apart ingredients in various skincare and tells you if its worth the money or not, whether its high quality and she advises based on skin type! Really good, stopped me spending extra money. I have a simple (cruelty free and vegan) skincare routine suited to me and now my make up sits better and lasts longer 🙂 x
@@jodziebear665 Hi, the one I tried was Derma E. I think the tocopheryl (vitamin E) part did not agree with me. I have hormonal acne on the lower third of my face. I am really interested in Paula's Choice. Thanks for your comment!
Aw that's so frustrating. I've heard that people with sensitive skin/ache really respond well to mineral make up, but I don't have much experience with acne myself so I feel for you: like I say in the video, if you need to stick to your plastic make up for now, it's not the end of the world :)
Loved this video and I'm definitely going to try some of these products when my current ones run out! I learned recently that most of the packaging for supermarket products is used and discarded farther back in the supply chain and might never be seen by the consumer. I love your point about emailing these corporations because the major supermarket chains have the power to influence every step of the supply chain, whereas we as individuals only have power over the end product we are buying, which is only a tiny fraction of the sustainability story. Great work as always!
I wonder how much "packaging" refers to the packaging that we, the consumer, don't see in the actual shops. For distribution purposes, many things are wrapped in plastic for transport that are then unwrapped by the shop. Having worked in a grocery store, most of our trash was packaging and most of it is necessary for items to arrive unharmed into consumer's hands. Some of it, sure, really pointless. But when it comes to food, you need to make sure the bananas don't get bruised (could make you ask whether we need to be eating bananas in non-banana growing continents and their transit impact as well); the food can stay fresh... Some interesting ideas to explore.
In terms of plastic free eyeliner, I've completely stopped buying liquid or gel eyeliners since I bought a small angled brush years ago. (I will say though I never really got along with liquid eyeliner and fair play to anyone who still wants to use it) Two ways I use it: brushing it on a kohl/eyeliner pencil gives a bit more of a diffuse subtle eyeliner look (but way more control, because you can use the brush to do your eyeliner), and if I want something a bit crisper/darker, I wet the brush and use black eyeshadow :)
Oh no, I'm late to this 😅 had an 11 day break from the 'tube. I just watched a video from shelby (shelbizzleee) and she mentioned that 5% of a products environmental impact comes from end of life. So legit 95% of a products impact occurs before you're about to discard it (so fishing nets is an excellent example, before we even consider BUYING the fish, there's already that massive environmental impact) Also the term zero waste was originally a concept for industry and the zero denotes that you're recycling 10% or less of all your waste 😅 Individual contributions are awesome but Leena is right! We gotta stay on those politicians backs and email those companies to get THEM to make the bigger contributions.
I'm trying to do plastic free July this year as a way to help highlight where the real challenges are in reducing my plastic waste. And also to help those around me see the problem - my boyfriend claims he's being dragged (but he seems to be independently trying) in looking for plastic free male grooming products. Which he has already started complaining are hard to come by! Thanks for this video, we love the positive panic!!
This is a great video which has really made me think about how to change my make up to be less wasteful. I work from home now and it's a plus that my make up consumption has basically fallen to zero because I don't care what I look like in Teams meetings! I'm definitely a sucker for eyeshadow palettes which I feel are so wasteful and I will definitely be looking to create my own palette.
I've been thinking about what you've said in the last few videos about sustainable banking and I think it's interesting. I was looking at my own financial tools and by far my biggest relationship with a bank is my mortgage. And while I'd love to be more thoughtful about my bank choice, it's so hard when the variance in rates between banks is so much and that makes the difference on whether a home is affordable or not. It just opens my eyes to how much of life has the potential to be sustainable, and yet how sometimes our hands are tied in a way. Anyway loving your videos as always Leena, thanks for your honesty and wit! X
I have nothing against the idea of plastic free makeup, but I replace the makeup I have so rarely that I don’t really feel the need to go out of my way because in the grand scheme of things what’s 1 or 2 plastic mascara tubes a year? I also feel like zero waste for non essentials is a trick because not buying any makeup ever would be zero waste, it still uses resources to make and transport the actual products even if they are plastic free. I do try to make changes where convenient and I don’t eat meat but it all feels pointless when the big companies are just pouring oil into the sea and shit lol
Loved this video!! I saw another comment about buying makeup second hand, and completely agree! Just buy it unopened/ brand new. It’s been very easy for me to find the products I’m looking for. I love drunk elephant products but I don’t like how much plastic they use, and the price is a bit much for me. I scored a $68 product from them for $24 second hand!
Babe! You watch hannah louise poston too! I love her! And you have clionadh shadows, we would definitely get on 😊 Nobody I know in the UK even knows what the brand is. I love my single shadows and mineral foundation just is the best for my skin I think too 😊
Thank you for touching on the garbage sent to Turkey issue. It was the people who persuaded the turkish government to stop that madness and i hope western countries find a sustainable way to deal with their own trash than just sending it elsewhere - that's literally exploitation Love from Istanbul!
I have never in my entire life put any make up on, save for some lip balm to keep my mouth uncracked under the influences of the sun or the cold winter air, but I want to experiment with some black around my eyes, possibly black lip stick, possibly black nail polish, so this was a surprisingly useful video.
i've been using plastic makeup bc i don't buy makeup frequently enough that it adds up, compared to all the other plastic in my life. but i like the idea of buying sustainable products for mindfulness. it reminds me of religious clothing that people wear to keep the tenets of the religion close to their thoughts-obviously it's not a perfect parallel, but it seems like a very human way of approaching a very big issue.
Regarding eye shadow, I really wanna recommend Lethal cosmetics! They also sell individual eyeshadows that come in paper/cardboard packaging and they have lots of empty pallettes also made from cardboard that you can fill with the colors that you love, same goes for face pallettes that you can fill with blush, highlighter, bronzer etc. Everything is handmade in Berlin with ethically sourced Maca (appearantly this is not the case with most eyeshadows you can buy) and everything is vegan and cruelty-free. What I like best about their products is that they work SO WELL, they are really longlasting, the color payoff is amazing and they have all the fun and vibrant colors you could imagine. They're also really reasonably priced in my opinion okay (if you're German, you can even get them at Douglas (it's our Sephora kind of) but I don't ever hear people talking about that brand) okay I'm done now haha.
Vlogbrothers had a great video about the individual/company debate. Hank said the recent data showed the more individual changes people made, the more likely companies and governments were to make systemic changes. Made me feel much better about fighting for both
Me too! It made me really realize that it's a supply and demand situation. If they continue to demand plastic items, they'll keep supplying them - if we don't, they won't!
It's kinda about bending capitalism slowly to our will haha
Finally someone said it. When you kept talking about mascara in non-plastic tubes I kept thinking about just one packet of cheese having the same amount of plastic.
Oh my GOSH, I got so excited about the ZAO brand and thought "But it's probably a brand that will have to ship from the UK, I'll go to their website to see but it's gonna probably cost a lot in shipping fees." WHEN I TELL YOU I GAGGED. I live in Switzerland and it's actually a swiss brand and they sell it in a drugstore 10 minutes from my house, that is open 24/7. Hell yeah if that's not a sign I don't know what is ahah
im here to LEARN
*I’d LITERALLY murder for a Carley and Leena collab*
WOW
Erm excuse me no one warned me there would be ROYALTY in my comments, I would have brushed my HAIR
This is a girlboss hangout now, hi
One of my faves referencing one of my other faves (Shelbey Wilson) while a third fave lurks in the comments! What a wild crossover episode
Little tiny yet therapeutic thing we can do to reduce carbon emissions is to delete our emails! The data stored to keep emails in our inbox/email accounts uses tons of carbon emissions to keep them stored. Delete your unnecessary emails, unsubscribe from all that marketing nonsense, and put things in folders so you know what doesn't need deleting. Listen to an audiobook or podcast while you do it and embrace the freedom of a clean inbox. Woo boy, it feels good. Also, loved the talk in this video, thanks Leena. x
Leena, I have to be honest, your videos have been recommended to me for maybe around a year now, but I only subscribed about a month ago. When I first saw them I thought, nah, not interesting to me. Then it turned into, I don't want to hear the lecture this tree hugger wants to give me. Because truly, I felt guilty about my lifestyle and didn't want to be called out on it. I want to eat meat and buy clothes as and when I want, from wherever I want. But you and your message has finally started to percolate into my brain. Over the past month or two I've definitely started to have a more conscious mindset about the things I buy and the things I throw away. I'm absolutely by no means perfect, but it's a start, and I truly have to thank you for it. You're making great content and doing great things. Thank you!
I think the biggest area I've ever reduced plastic is replacing my period routine with fabric reusable pads and a moon cup. I used to have to wear panty liners every day, but since switching I havent bought a single period item for OVER A YEAR! it's legit insane how much money and plastic I've saved and they absolutely should be selling reusable pads in super markets, it's absolutely wild that they dont.
Yes, I'd say this is probably my biggest reduction too. I've used a mooncup for about 13 years, have replaced it twice in that time and collected a few fabric pads. I haven't bought anything else in all that time except an emergency pack of plastic pads that I had to buy while out one day, the majority of which have sat in my bathroom cabinet for years and moved house with me twice 🤣 I'd quite like to try the 'period pants' for lighter days too but would never ever go back to crunchy, sweaty bits of plastic 😣
If teenagers were taught about the alternatives (cloth pads, moon cups, period underwear) right from the start then it wouldn't seem alternative, or gross. A tampon or basically a plastic nappy seems much more gross to me now!
It's also my bigger reduction. But because I'm on hormonal contraception and don't have periods anymore 😂😂
When I switched to reusable pads, it brought home to me how crap the plastic ones can be - I used to get so dry after wearing one all day, and haven't had that problem since switching to fabric ones about 5 years ago. And my god, all sanitary products need to be F R E E like *yesterday*
I've been using a moon cup for almost 6 years now, I think, and although it's just soo practical not to have to buy pads every time and it has allowed me to reduce my period-related waste and budget so much, it is also a whole other bother for me when I have my periods (mostly because my periods changed som cuh other the years). I can't be bothered to sterilize my cup, nor to put it inside my body when it already hurts so much, so I mostly use fabric pads, but then I have to wash and dry them (as a student in a very humid flat, it's nearly impossible) and wash them before next cycle. So I have to coordinate with myself a bit there, and it's incredibly annoying sometimes. (I have almost run short of underwear for the sake of washing my pads with the rest of my laundry and not just by hands). So I find myself going back to disposable pads, with tells me that I need to buy more fabric pads, I think.
one of your best positive panic videos. you have a knack for diffusing issues so theyre less frightening, but that makes the steps to combat them more approachable. im going to be more committed to zero waste in future
Aw thank you that means a lot! Nice comments like this and lovely reactions to the series I've had in the past help me feel like I can keep making them, even if they (or I) are not perfect. x
@@leenanorms yes!! and please do continue making them! ❤️
I like your perspective on changing routines to use less plastic to “stay angry” and remind us what it’s all about, almost likening it to religious objects and reminders. I sometimes struggle with the whole “one metal straw won’t save the turtles and just makes us all lazy and complacent for taking the easy way out and not enacting real change” mentality, but I like your perspective on reimagining using eco tools as a reminder to keep doing the hard work rather than just settling for that eco purchase “scratching the itch” on the ol’ environmental conscience. I’ll think about this and how I want to put it into my life. Thanks, Leena!
9:45 when I got into eyeshadow after years of only dealing with watercolor pigments, I was shocked and horrified that buying individual colours in person is near impossible! Down with pallets!!!
Hi Leena! I am reading "We Are the Weather" as per your recommendation. The bit about how changing our lives won't be a sacrifice if we get to continue our lives is especially seasonable during this pandemic. Your big sister vibes are immaculate and I want you to know you are helping me to live my life on purpose. Thanks for your impact!
I bought this book from Leena’s recommendation too! It’s up next in my TBR pile.
I feel like as a working class and low income person, zero waste make up routines are goals for the privileged. Personally, I haven't worn makeup for years because I can't afford it which is truly 'zero waste'.
Off the back of that, I think these kinds of eco routine changes for consumption is a responsibility for the middle class and above. If I don't wear makeup because I can't afford it, if I still shop at Iceland, because it's what I can afford, I don't want to feel guilty over things I can't change when there's a privileged class that can afford to make those changes for now.
Thank you for the vid Leena ❤️
I agree with this - I finally threw out my unused make up about 6 months ago (full disclosure I tried to recycle most of it, The Body Shop have a recycling scheme if anyone wants to do the same). I thought about replacing it, but I honestly barely wear it, and it's not worth the cost/waste for "special occasions". As a middle-class woman, I agree that this video should be seen as helpful for those who like/can afford makeup, and optional for everyone else
Seeing the mascara tin reminded me of a story of my Great Aunt Janice. When she was a teenager in the 60’s (I believe) she and her friends would stand in the tiny little British bathroom all doing their makeup and sharing what they had. When they did mascara they’d each spit in the tin to make it a paste and when they were done and the next person started their make up she’d use the mascara too. So that was probably a germ ridden container by the end of the night.
But she had good nights out with her friends so maybe we can forgive her for that
In terms of making swaps and staying angry - ethical consumer! So many league tables and such good information about what companies are up to. I am always fascinated by what they have to say and it is so underrated.
leena: "if you watch this video, you buy makeup"
me: *has never voluntarily worn makeup and doesnt want to but still watches the video anyway*
I think sometimes all environmental issues get lumped together, and while it's really important to reduce plastic pollution I do question if switching from plastic to glass packaging is more damaging from a global warming perspective as they take more energy and resources to produce and transport. Agree that pencils and powders are the future though! I like that they don't go bad as quickly as liquids so don't need to be replaced as often
@Rachel Ny How small is small?
I wish they looked good on my skin though. Powder foundatiom emphasizes my pores like nothing else in the world.
This. Also compounded by the problem of everyone having different recycling systems with different rules depending on where you are (and, let's be honest, what your government finds the most affordable/profitable). Not just by country or state, but also county to county or city to city.
We need a circular economy where waste is biodegradable.
🙌💖
"I like to glisten, not glow" ✨ you do, Leena, you do glisten 💖✨
haha thank you!
I have had one those moments at target when I walk down a whole aisle that’s full of decorative cheap Knick knacks that have no function and I thought wow this kind of horrifies me but just yesterday I wanted these things 😅
I feel like there might be an argument to use more powder products in general bc they stay "fresh" and usable much longer, while creamy or liquid products tend to turn thicker/dryer and less easy to use after a while and so I end up not using up the entire amount.
A note on fish consumption that might be useful for some folks!:
Plastic use in the fishing industry is awful, but it’s also important to remember that for some being completely vegan isn’t possible, and if you’re going to be eating meat, fish might still be a more sustainable choice than other forms of meat (ex. beef, pork, etc) especially when it comes to CO2 production, depending on farming practices where you live.
If you are planning to have fish in your diet, try to buy fish species that are lower on the food chain (they require fewer resources) or ones that are locally farmed through sustainable aquaculture. You can generally find out a farm’s environmental practices on their website. Aquaculture is by no means free of environmental harm, but it is improving! If you live somewhere with a local aquaculture industry, as I do in Canada, send them a letter to request more sustainable practices! While you’re at it, also send some letters to your local ocean fisheries, and tell them to stop using practices that generate plastic waste!
Aquaculture might actually be the way of the future - kelp farming looks promising!
For most people living in developed nations, veganism is very possible. It's easier now than ever.
@@CS-nw9si possible, but still not possible for everyone. For example, some people have disabilities that make it difficult to eat vegan (e.g., rely on carers or ready meals with tight budgets, are unable to safely digest lots of food types, or have sensory aversions to certain food types), it also might not be safe for people recovering from EDs to fully adopt veganism.
such a good video. a great mix between "heres what you, the consumer, can do" and "hey maybe get the big guys to play along". i always feel like that's something we forget, the fact that we can and SHOULD write to the producers, tapping them on the shoulders and nagging them about "hey hey hey hey hey how about you change this and that abt your product". politicians as well.
"a little bit of metal" was really *chef's kiss*
I get so mad when I see fresh fruit and vegetables starting to get packaged in plastic at the store. On the positive side, they are currently trialing BYO containers for the deli items (pre-shaved ham, salami, olives etc) so that's nice...
For plastic free mascara, brow gel, and lip products, I really recommend Pacifica Beauty and Izzy zero waste makeup!
I think it's really easy to fall into the trap of thinking 'well the biggest environmental issues are not my fault and I have very little control over them' and using that as an excuse to consume as normal (I have been guilty of this in the past) when actually while that is true we can make better/more sustainable choices as consumers and also recognise that pressure on institutions is what will make the biggest difference. So I'm off to look at plastic free mascaras lol.
Leena you’ve made me so anticapitalist my parents are sick of my blaming everything on capitalism
the one thing that saved my sanity when it comes to my main frivolity being makeup was depotting my cardboard eyeshadow pallettes (i do not have the guts to go at my plastic one yet) and putting everything in magnetic palettes. from now on i can always just take a look at what i have, curate own color stories and actively decide the individual shadows that i might want to add instead of ever being tempted by a pre-made palette again.
also, magnetic pallettes and tools are super nice to find second hand, i got all of mine through ebay, some even for pickup in my city
And, if you really wanna level up your possibilities, get a mixing medium. they turn any powder into eyeliner and revive any old/drying out pot product which means i not only stop buying colorful eyeliners but also get to use up all that i buy
The most eco friendly thing to do is often to not buy anything and use what you have. Which isn’t as fun as going out and buying eco-swaps. It also feels much less active of a choice. It’s a weird psychology thing. We’re so trained to solve problems with shopping that when the solution is quite the opposite it feels alien.
I completely agree with all of the above and try and reduce plastic in my life BUT I also highly recommend people check out George Monbiot's rant on 'micro consumerist bollocks' MCB. Essentially saying these can be distractions to tackling the real systemic issues, or even people will do these things to feel good and like they're doing enough and then not think twice about driving to the shops or flying for holidays... But Leena does a great job of keeping the bigger picture in mind as well and I thought it was really interesting to see how she uses these tools as prompts for bigger action
Loved this, definitely going to be seeking out alternatives as my current stash runs out. Though something I have noticed recently is how so many eco-alternatives are mainly targeted at people who at non-men. I understand socially we are in general encouraged to use more cosmetics but would be interested to see how marketing teams would approach involving more male targeted toiletries.
that is a million dollar idea .
I feel so much guilt in my day to day. I’ve definitely taken steps and will continue to do so. In my opinion though It’s not right that the government puts the responsability onto the individual when 75% of emissions come from the same 100 companies. Very twisted what’s happening :(
Something really interesting I read or heard about this though is that if we stop shopping from so many large corps they won’t create those emissions. E.g. switching your energy supplier, not buying fast fashion. No companies, no emissions x
One plastic product that grinds my gears is raspberry containers. It is 100% thick and durable plastic. And single-use.
I love raspberries, so I, unfortunately, buy them a lot, and the plastic waste that I cause from this sole product alone is astronomical.
This is something that could easily be replaced by cardboard boxes, or wax paper boxes. *sigh*
Your voice is always so calming to listen to and your “positive panic” helps me be more positive while taking more realistic steps to help the planet. A lot of your videos don’t technically apply to me, like I don’t wear makeup, but I love all of them and always still feel like I’ve learned something. Just wanted to say thank you :)
Love love LOVE this video!! I find the line between individual responsibility vs larger corporate violations so interesting. My zero-ish waste bathroom is something I’m definitely so proud of but I always felt that the plastic my food comes in is just out of my control. You brought up so many amazing points and I’m so thankful you make this kind of content. I definitely experience climate overwhelm but your videos help me to stay pissed off at the world but in a manageable way! Sending love xx
Aw that means a lot thank you!
Mascara recommendation: I’m a sucker for the Lush lashes mascara. It fits into the lush bring back scheme. There’s a vegan and vegetarian version. I love it.
Comment for the algorithm, love everything about this and I really appreciate how accessible your content is Leena. I think a lot of low waste/zero waste content feels too aspirational but yours feels way more realistic.
I was so surprised to see Aldi ranking highly in the supermarkets - I can never find loose/unpackaged fruit and veg there…but maybe it’s a sign of how bad the others are, and not how good Aldi is?!
haha most probably! The unpackaged stuff changes from shop to shop I've found, but their vegan stuff comes in just a cardboard box, no plastic at all :) SMALL TINY WINS.
Agreed. But also USA Aldi and UK/Europe Aldi are different, so I chalked it up to that
I use the Bésame Cosmetics cake mascara as an eyeliner too by using the old felt tip from my old pen eyeliner that dried up. When I use it up, I can just buy a replacement cake mascara. Great stuff.
I emailed my MP just now! Thank you for the inspiration!!
YES to magnetic pallettes! Since really starting with single eyeshadows I am so not interested in big "finished"/premade pallettes. Thanks for this video!
I've found with a lot of plastic free make up that the shades aren't always the best... like a lot of companies run pretty dark which is great but it's the undertones which are really off sometimes 😬
The difficulty in cardboard eyeshadow palettes is that the mirror and magnets make them really hard to recycle. I love single refill eyeshadows and If you love eyeshadows in palette form, I really recommend athr beauty
I almost clicked off the video because I'm not really into makeup, but the most important part (for me) was at the end. Glad I stayed. x)
If you can't afford plastic free makeup you can buy second hand makeup which is often brand new on places like vinted and depop, even though you will still have plastic waste at the end of it you won't be supporting the production of plastic products and you will be using products that may otherwise not be used. It's also good if you like a brand who isn't cruelty free as you won't be supporting them
Yes this is such a good point! I've bought stuff as long as it's says it's unopened and in its packaging etc, so far so good ;) x
Ok but the magnetic palette blew my tiny mind!! 🤯
Great to keep thinking about this! Let’s not forget that often the environmental impact that we don’t see (manufacturing emissions, transport etc) is often many times that of packaging! Very hard to quantify
I love your perspective and I wish I could do some more to improve my make-up routine. I'm from Mexico and sustainable products are either really expensive (I can't afford them at all) or they are made without any quality control so they can be even dangerous for the skin, however, there are always ways, like preferring pencil lipsticks than plastic, etc. I love your videos because you make me feel that my small efforts have meaning. Thanks!
Asking to support all these businesses!!!!
Really good chat towards the end about staying pissed off, and yes one person changing to a metal straw or whatever isn’t going to solve the climate crisis, but the important thing is that these consumer choices signal strongly to businesses that “the public” wants something, and then the government regulation follows. Of course we wish the government would lead but we know better than that at this point. We are voting for change with our money, and that’s all our wastrel politicians seem to care about.
I love mineral cosmetics too! Now we have lovely mineral cosmetics producer and I am so happy that I do not need to order it from abroad❤
In this capitalist hellscape, what we choose to buy *does* have a sort of power. Is it just corporations that need to change or just individuals? As with many things, the answer lies somewhere in the middle.
I worry that too many people are hiding behind the "corporations need to change" as an excuse to not take a hard look at the way they are doing things. If we are going shimmy our way out of this whole crisis, every person that has the ability and means to make changes, needs to make those changes. And buy less. And vote.
Apologies for the rant :)
some easy ways to make your makeup bag less wasteful are to keep parts of the products that are designed to be thrown away, if you clean a mascara wand it makes a great eyebrow spooly and you can keep eyeliner brushes from liquid eyeliners to use for other parts of your makeup routine
I started using mineral foundation this year and it is great! But it is a learning curve
Personally, I can't see myself getting much eco-make up in the next couple of years. But that's not because I have anything against it, quite the opposite. It's because I don't use make up all that often and also have so much unused but usable make up I have been gifted in the past that I am using up first. After all it makes neither fiscal nor ecological sense to throw that away and buy new.
Totally agree, sounds like you're in the right mindset ;)
Me too! Personally, I don't enjoy the feeling of having makeup on my face, so I just don't wear it. I only have makeup for performance reasons, and prefer expressing myself through my hair and my clothing. However, years from now when I do need new makeup I would love to explore the magnetic/in the pan option. I only use a couple of colors anyway, so then I can try buying only the colors I want without unecessary extra colors from that palette.
I agree about putting it in perspective - the only make up I replace really regularly is mascara and I've yet to find an alternative I like. But I don't beat myself up as there are definitely other areas (food) where I could make a much bigger impact. I also find that a lot of the 'green' brands have major drawbacks ingredient-wise - the no preservatives thing is a problem for me as is the use of essential oils that can be very irritating. I like the Lily Lolo mineral foundation and they now do refills so you don't have to keep buying the plastic tub. I'd be interested in trying that concealer, pencils are awesome. If anyone else has tried it let me know if you liked it 😊
Love to learn about some other brands I’ve not heard of before. Having worked for a major supermarket, and being directly tasked with reducing the plastic in the packaging I can confirm it’s not a case of “not being bothered” to do it or just not. Yes profit seems to be the issue. A lot of them want to “do the right thing” but not compromise profit.. which is probably at 50% anyway. Uphill battle even within the company, without the government picking arbitrary figures out the air as committing to. Mindset shift desperately needed.
Yeah I've totally been in those bureaucratic meetings before, I think a lot of the problem is the way companies are often structured: shareholders are promised profit, at any cost, and it's them everyone's trying to answer to. Sometimes I think it should either be our mission to change shareholders' minds (god knows how we go about getting to them) or create laws that prevent profit without responsible business practices. They both feel impossible right now, but here's hoping! x
@@leenanorms Wouldn't that be wonderful if rich people were actually willing to be slightly less rich! haha Would also add, the figures put in place by the government aren't realistically possisble to achieve. They won't have consulted with anyone from the packagaing industries to learn that the ideal alternative will take a few years to develop, so it't not possible to commit sooner. However a lot of products are way ahead of target.. not that you'd know. Making green claims can be a risk so lots of businesses opt out and customers don't see the full extent. Greenpeace's figures come from topline, often annual, data. I've had a mailing list email from them targeting a product Ive worked hard to successfully change. I'd take it with a pinch.
Inglot sell their eyeshadows individually and customisable pallets for them
For me going low waste was more about comforting my own anxieties than making a huge change. At the end of the day I can say I'm doing what I can and that's what matters to me. And being able to say that to the next generation too
Yeah there's definitely an internal motivation for me too
I would also look into plastic that is *in* makeup. Microplastics in the water supply is about to be a problem in a big way and I actually read that like 99% of lush products contain microplastics - PVP specifically. This website that I’m sourcing from called beat the micro bead says that in fact 79% of products contain microplastics 😬 your video made me curious to look it up and I’m glad it did!
A million thank yous, I cant believe I only found you today!
Hi Leena I’m an older fan but just dropping by to say how wonderful I think you are! So informative and entertaining. 💄
I’ve been working on moving some of my previous common purchases to resources that are less plastic filled or otherwise eco-friendly, but because I’m not a big makeup user, I hadn’t really considered swapping out the products I use in that front. My biggest recent change was getting rid of liquid clothes detergent and the next time we get our dishwasher detergent, I want to see what store will have powder instead of the pouches or liquid detergent who uses more plastic. When we had to replace out dishwasher we opted for a low energy one, and out replaced fridge also has a pretty high energy savings as well.
I swear your videos are the only content about the climate crisis that doesn't make me fall into a spiral of panic and hopelessness.
I don't wear much makeup but I love the idea of the magnetic pans!!! I have a few eyeshadow palettes where I like just a few of the colors so it would be great to customize my makeup palette. Once I've gone through the eyeshadow I have now I will definitely look into going this route. Thanks Leena!
This video was brilliant Leena!!! As someone who doesn’t use that much make up, the extra pieces of advice on how to help reduce plastic consumption was really helpful.
You’ve got me writing to my local MP, and now I’m going to watch the climate documentary you mentioned
Thank you for your positive influence xx
Every time someone mentions a mooncup I want to cry. The mooncup is the best thing I have ever used. Unfortunately, after a few months of using it I pulled out my coil while removing my mooncup. I had two doctors telling me this is very common, despite cup manufacturers claiming it's rare. I was so in love with the cup that I tried three different ones of different textures but always started to pull my coil over time. Please DO Use a cup if you can but also please be very careful if you have a coil.
And if you are a cup company, pleaaaase find a solution for people with coils. 😭
Just bought a sample of the Love the Planet mineral foundation, I'm also terrified of putting powder on my face but ready to be baffled by powder that changes texture as it blends in!! :D
“A little bit of metal” caught me so off guard I did a ha ha
About the section on waste, I would highly recommend The Story of Stuff which has a huge emphasis on waste management and the impacts on ecotoxicology and oppressed communities. I learned a lot from that book and it provides solutions to the linear economy we live in.
On the lush concealer mine came very smushed because I bought it off of someone on vinted however this meant that I scraped it into a lush sample pot and it makes it so much more usable! It’s not a great pot concealer :)
Hi Leena! I don't wear makeup, though if I did start, would definitely look into your recommendations! You are so stunning! Love the style of your videos. This is brilliant...especially all of the facts you have brought to attention.
Not to mention there's something like 100 companies on the planet who account for most of the plastic and we as consumers cannot alone make much of a difference *screams internally*
I loved this video! The reassuring content of watching someone do their makeup video whilst laying down some world saving points. I've been vegan 5 years for the planet and as a few other comments have said my main focus has been a gradual move to vegan/cruelty free beauty/cleaning products but I've not considered the use of plastic as much. I find if I think too hard about some purchases my anger is overwhelming so sometimes I often find it easier to put my blinkers on (especially when it comes to fresh food). You'd think vegan/CF companies would also put a huge focus on their packaging! So many thoughts - thanks for your fabulous content 😘💞🦋
Leena this video was brilliant!!!!! As someone who doesn’t use that much make up, the extra pieces of advice in how to reduce our plastic consumption was really appreciated.
I’ve just written to my local MP, thank you for your positive influence xxx
Love my magnetic palettes a regularly dupe new releases with my Costal scents hot pots (single eyeshadows) sadly coastal scents are out of business!
Joined ProjectPannLadies on facebook who encourage eachother to pann or use up their current purchases and to buy buy!
I'm not as much into makeup, but I tried switching to all vegan, cruelty-free, plastic-free/reduced skincare, and I ended up with a huge acne problem... even after spending days researching a good brand! It is frustrating how hard it is to do the right thing and find a product that works.
Can I ask what brands you tried? Finding skincare that works for you is a challenge whether is cruelty free or not. I watch cassandra bankson on youtube whos a skincare expert, i highly recommend her. She picks apart ingredients in various skincare and tells you if its worth the money or not, whether its high quality and she advises based on skin type! Really good, stopped me spending extra money. I have a simple (cruelty free and vegan) skincare routine suited to me and now my make up sits better and lasts longer 🙂 x
@@jodziebear665 Hi, the one I tried was Derma E. I think the tocopheryl (vitamin E) part did not agree with me. I have hormonal acne on the lower third of my face. I am really interested in Paula's Choice. Thanks for your comment!
Aw that's so frustrating. I've heard that people with sensitive skin/ache really respond well to mineral make up, but I don't have much experience with acne myself so I feel for you: like I say in the video, if you need to stick to your plastic make up for now, it's not the end of the world :)
Loved this video and I'm definitely going to try some of these products when my current ones run out! I learned recently that most of the packaging for supermarket products is used and discarded farther back in the supply chain and might never be seen by the consumer. I love your point about emailing these corporations because the major supermarket chains have the power to influence every step of the supply chain, whereas we as individuals only have power over the end product we are buying, which is only a tiny fraction of the sustainability story. Great work as always!
I wonder how much "packaging" refers to the packaging that we, the consumer, don't see in the actual shops. For distribution purposes, many things are wrapped in plastic for transport that are then unwrapped by the shop. Having worked in a grocery store, most of our trash was packaging and most of it is necessary for items to arrive unharmed into consumer's hands. Some of it, sure, really pointless. But when it comes to food, you need to make sure the bananas don't get bruised (could make you ask whether we need to be eating bananas in non-banana growing continents and their transit impact as well); the food can stay fresh... Some interesting ideas to explore.
In terms of plastic free eyeliner, I've completely stopped buying liquid or gel eyeliners since I bought a small angled brush years ago. (I will say though I never really got along with liquid eyeliner and fair play to anyone who still wants to use it)
Two ways I use it: brushing it on a kohl/eyeliner pencil gives a bit more of a diffuse subtle eyeliner look (but way more control, because you can use the brush to do your eyeliner), and if I want something a bit crisper/darker, I wet the brush and use black eyeshadow :)
Thanks
Girl you are phenomenal!!!
Oh no, I'm late to this 😅 had an 11 day break from the 'tube. I just watched a video from shelby (shelbizzleee) and she mentioned that 5% of a products environmental impact comes from end of life. So legit 95% of a products impact occurs before you're about to discard it (so fishing nets is an excellent example, before we even consider BUYING the fish, there's already that massive environmental impact)
Also the term zero waste was originally a concept for industry and the zero denotes that you're recycling 10% or less of all your waste 😅 Individual contributions are awesome but Leena is right! We gotta stay on those politicians backs and email those companies to get THEM to make the bigger contributions.
I'm trying to do plastic free July this year as a way to help highlight where the real challenges are in reducing my plastic waste. And also to help those around me see the problem - my boyfriend claims he's being dragged (but he seems to be independently trying) in looking for plastic free male grooming products. Which he has already started complaining are hard to come by! Thanks for this video, we love the positive panic!!
Aw that's so cool he's doing that - I found some good lad stuff on Peace With The Wild and Freedm Street for men, if he's still looking :) x
This is a great video which has really made me think about how to change my make up to be less wasteful. I work from home now and it's a plus that my make up consumption has basically fallen to zero because I don't care what I look like in Teams meetings! I'm definitely a sucker for eyeshadow palettes which I feel are so wasteful and I will definitely be looking to create my own palette.
You've made me save some plastic in my everyday routine!
I think it's worked. I feel so inspired and determined to take action!
I agree though, PENCILS ARE THE FUTURE!!!
I've been thinking about what you've said in the last few videos about sustainable banking and I think it's interesting. I was looking at my own financial tools and by far my biggest relationship with a bank is my mortgage. And while I'd love to be more thoughtful about my bank choice, it's so hard when the variance in rates between banks is so much and that makes the difference on whether a home is affordable or not. It just opens my eyes to how much of life has the potential to be sustainable, and yet how sometimes our hands are tied in a way. Anyway loving your videos as always Leena, thanks for your honesty and wit! X
This was the make up video I needed but didn't know I needed 💜
I don't know anything about make up but I still think this was great!
I have nothing against the idea of plastic free makeup, but I replace the makeup I have so rarely that I don’t really feel the need to go out of my way because in the grand scheme of things what’s 1 or 2 plastic mascara tubes a year? I also feel like zero waste for non essentials is a trick because not buying any makeup ever would be zero waste, it still uses resources to make and transport the actual products even if they are plastic free. I do try to make changes where convenient and I don’t eat meat but it all feels pointless when the big companies are just pouring oil into the sea and shit lol
Loved this video!! I saw another comment about buying makeup second hand, and completely agree! Just buy it unopened/ brand new. It’s been very easy for me to find the products I’m looking for.
I love drunk elephant products but I don’t like how much plastic they use, and the price is a bit much for me. I scored a $68 product from them for $24 second hand!
I'm with you on struggling using the Besame Cake mascara but it's great as an eyeliner too
Babe! You watch hannah louise poston too!
I love her!
And you have clionadh shadows, we would definitely get on 😊
Nobody I know in the UK even knows what the brand is. I love my single shadows and mineral foundation just is the best for my skin I think too 😊
INGLOT also sells a lot of eyeshadow, blushes and powder without plastic packaging. I however don’t know if they are cruelty free.
They are cruelty free
Thank you for touching on the garbage sent to Turkey issue. It was the people who persuaded the turkish government to stop that madness and i hope western countries find a sustainable way to deal with their own trash than just sending it elsewhere - that's literally exploitation
Love from Istanbul!
i am loving your freckles
I have never in my entire life put any make up on, save for some lip balm to keep my mouth uncracked under the influences of the sun or the cold winter air, but I want to experiment with some black around my eyes, possibly black lip stick, possibly black nail polish, so this was a surprisingly useful video.
i've been using plastic makeup bc i don't buy makeup frequently enough that it adds up, compared to all the other plastic in my life. but i like the idea of buying sustainable products for mindfulness. it reminds me of religious clothing that people wear to keep the tenets of the religion close to their thoughts-obviously it's not a perfect parallel, but it seems like a very human way of approaching a very big issue.
I love Leena, I don't even wear makeup and yet here I am watching this/
Regarding eye shadow, I really wanna recommend Lethal cosmetics! They also sell individual eyeshadows that come in paper/cardboard packaging and they have lots of empty pallettes also made from cardboard that you can fill with the colors that you love, same goes for face pallettes that you can fill with blush, highlighter, bronzer etc. Everything is handmade in Berlin with ethically sourced Maca (appearantly this is not the case with most eyeshadows you can buy) and everything is vegan and cruelty-free. What I like best about their products is that they work SO WELL, they are really longlasting, the color payoff is amazing and they have all the fun and vibrant colors you could imagine. They're also really reasonably priced in my opinion okay (if you're German, you can even get them at Douglas (it's our Sephora kind of) but I don't ever hear people talking about that brand) okay I'm done now haha.