034: Top Tip Thursday, Crazy Bird Questions with Mariska Nell
In this episode, I am answering some of the questions that I have been getting from all the crazy birds. I will be sharing with you some tips on how I have reduced our bin size, sending a lot less waste to landfill. How you can compost even if you live in an apartment. I also share with you my thoughts on clothing made from recycled plastic bottles and why I am not a fan. I will also provide you with some tips on how you can shop package free in your regular supermarket.
Episode Highlights
[01:18] How do I manage only to have 1-litre bin of waste every 6-8 weeks?
[02:58] We live in an apartment and composting can be hard at times not to talk about the smelliness if you had to do it indoors, therefore I invested in a Smart Cara and had to say she has been a valuable assist in our kitchen.
[04:35] What is your take on clothing or products made from recycled plastic?
[05:19] Every time that you place the item for example in the washing machine it will release microplastics, those microplastics will then go in your drain and then in the water supply.
[08:03] What would you tell people while shopping package-free in a store that is not package free?
Key Take Away
“Every time that you place the item for example in the washing machine it will release microplastics, those microplastics will then go in your drain and then in the water supply.”
Microplastics are a hot topic at the moment and with the number of companies entering the sustainable market on the rise and with that comes a lot of greenwashing. Companies telling you that their products are good for the environment and the moment you dig a little deeper you find that they are no different other than promoting more people to use it. This can often lead to confusion and also frustration as you might be purchasing products that you were told are good for the environment but then in fact was not. Therefore do take everything that the salesperson tells you with a pinch of salt. Go and do your own research and find out more about the items before investing in the product.
About the author, Mariska
Hi, I’m Mariska – podcast host, artist, sustainability advocate and consultant, and storyteller driven by a deep passion for our planet. Sustainability isn’t just a topic I discuss; it’s a way of life I embody through my work, actions, and everyday choices.
My journey began several years ago when I started experimenting with trash as a medium in my artwork. What began as creative curiosity quickly turned into a deep dive into the environmental impact of waste. That curiosity expanded into a broader connection with nature—including a life-changing trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, where I found both clarity and purpose. It was there that I made the decision to leave the corporate world behind and commit fully to environmental work.
In 2018, I took that message public in the UAE by wearing every piece of trash I generated for 30 days. The result—65 kilograms of waste—sparked national conversations around sustainability and waste reduction. That bold experiment also became the catalyst for my podcast, Mama Earth Talk, where I’ve since connected with global thought leaders to explore sustainability and inspire meaningful action.
Over the years, I’ve collaborated with organizations such as Nespresso, Costa, and Dubai International Airport to implement practical and impactful environmental solutions. From optimizing waste management systems to leading awareness campaigns, I specialize in designing strategies that create real, lasting change.
My artwork—blending environmental advocacy with creative expression—has been collected by public figures including comedian Trevor Noah, environmentalist Adrian Grenier, entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk, radio host Kris Fade, Grammy Award-winning DJ Black Coffee, and NBA player Mason Plumlee. Through public speaking, podcasting, and art, I aim to inspire individuals and organizations to rethink their relationship with the environment.
With over a decade of international experience in design and project management across Australia, South Africa, the UK, India, and the UAE, I bring a unique mix of creativity and strategic insight to sustainability challenges. My global perspective allows me to collaborate across cultures, drive innovation, and empower others to make a meaningful impact.
As a lifelong learner and passionate advocate, I focus on practical, holistic solutions to environmental challenges—guided by systems thinking and a deep commitment to action. I hold a BA in Design, a postgraduate degree in Environmental Science, and a Master’s in Sustainable Design.