Absolute Minimum. TOP 5 Books about Minimalism and Zero Waste

The philosophy of Zero Waste Life is gradually becoming the number one topic. It enters our homes through every possible crevice: through daily care, fashion, food, and other activities and choices we make every day. How to wisely and effectively implement minimalism into your life? Books on this topic are becoming increasingly popular. Which ones are worth having on your shelf?

1. "How to Save the World" - Areta Szpura

This is a recent publication that has made a loud echo in Poland. Areta Szpura is a colorful persona who is active on social media, and more and more often beyond it. Once the founder of the popular local brand Local Heroes, today she is a woman whose mission is to save the world. Her book is exactly like her - colorful, providing positive vibrations, but also a significant and concrete dose of knowledge, organized so that no one will complain about the lack of detailed information about sorting waste or using bio-waste.

The book has clear chapters, is rich in short essays, interviews, and precise guides about how to segregate garbage, what to buy, how to limit shopping, and how to embrace minimalism. Fashion, food, and hygiene in zero waste life, or simply a guide on how to save the world.

2. "Zero Waste Life" - Katarzyna Wągrowska

This is one of the first Polish publications on the idea of zero waste. The author of the book was inspired by people who generally do not produce waste. Although their way of life and actions may seem radical to many, it's worth getting inspired by their daily practices and at least introduce some of them into our own lives.

In her book, which has already been released in a new edition, Katarzyna Wągrowska answers questions about how to get rid of plastic from the house, which cosmetic ingredients to avoid in daily care, and how to make homemade products like soap, cleaning supplies, or yogurt. Zero waste life presented in a very practical and clear way.

3. "I Cook I Don't Waste" - Sylwia Majcher

Wasting food is an issue that unfortunately affects every Polish home. Not without reason, this topic required a local approach, because every kitchen operates on its own rules and different ingredients, which can be used in many ways. Can responsible minimalism enter Polish cuisine?

Books about cooking according to the zero waste philosophy, especially Sylwia Majcher's book, prove that food leftovers can end up on the plate instead of ruthlessly landing in the trash bin. "I Cook I Don't Waste" will help you create a thoughtful menu and shopping list, thanks to which you will limit food wasting. In the book, you will also find recipes for how to create a great and delicious "something" out of absolutely nothing!

4. "The Art of Simplicity" - Dominique Loreau

Among Polish authors writing about the philosophy of zero waste life in its various, practical aspects, it is also worth mentioning the position of Dominique Loreau, who writes about how to live simpler and derive joy from it every day. What does practical minimalism look like? Fashion, beauty, and objects that surround you - all have an impact on your well-being.

The book applauds the well-known idea of "less is more" and encourages you to do a thorough review of your wardrobe, cosmetic shelves, and any other closet in which you keep items only because of their sentimental value or according to the principle that "they will surely come in handy someday". Loreau calls for life in simplicity, because only in it, you can sort out other, much more important matters.

5. "Minimalism" - Leo Babauta

This is a book that is often called the bible of minimalism. Although today you can find many equally interesting proposals on a similar topic in the market, Babauta's book still remains the one that made minimalism a philosophy of life, not just a fad of a small group of people. The thesis of the book is that what matters most is a rich life, with minimal possessions. Therefore, you will find basic principles of minimalism in it, as well as answers to questions about how to tidy up, what a minimalist workspace should look like and how to travel in the spirit of minimalism.