Have you ever wondered how much of your meticulously sorted recycling actually avoids the landfill? This week we sit down with Vinnie Callister, the self-proclaimed "Waste Wizard," to debunk common myths surrounding waste management and to highlight innovative solutions in the fight against waste.

In this eye-opening conversation, Vinnie shares his journey from spearheading waste separation at festivals to partnering with Make Waste History in the quest to reduce the staggering 500 BILLION single-use coffee cups disposed of each year. Listen in as we discuss the Reusable Cup Network powered by the Again Again app, and explore how small actions can propel monumental change.

What you'll discover:

- How Wastewizards began with a vision to encourage waste separation at festivals.

- The harsh reality that if there's more than 10% contamination, most of our recycling heads straight to landfill.

- The principles behind Waste Wizards and the drive for decommodification and radical self-reliance.

- Vinnie's experience starting the business and insights on securing sustainability funding.

- Practical steps you can take to transition from single-use to sustainable, such as adopting high-quality reusables.

Plus, a candid discussion about the intersection of mental health and environmental efforts.

This episode is packed with eye-opening discussions, practical advice, and Vinnie's infectious enthusiasm for making a greener world. Tune in to explore how you can be part of the waste minimisation movement and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle!

Timestamps

• (00:00:10) Introduction of Vinnie Callister
• (00:01:16) Wastewizards Origin
• (00:11:52) Reality of Recycling
• (00:20:36) The Reusable Cup Network
• (00:24:52) Waste Wizards' Philosophy
• (00:28:34) Discussing Business Funding
• (00:29:55) Challenges in Sustainability Funding
• (00:34:14) Action as the Antidote to Despair
• (00:37:12) Global Mental Health Crisis
• (00:41:57) Dehydration and Injuries
• (00:43:14) Replacing Single-Use Items
• (00:52:21) Staying Curious

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