129: My top 10 tips to reduce your waste with Mariska Nell
In this episode, I am sharing with you my top 10 tips to reduce your waste. I’ve been using these tips during my zero waste journey and has helped a lot to reduce the amount of waste that we create.
Let’s take just a little step back for those of you that are new to the concept of Zero Waste I’ve written an entire blog about Zero Waste and explain where the term comes from and how it changes into a movement. That’s the long answer about what is zero-waste the short one is to send Zero Waste to landfill.
When it comes to making choices whether you buy this apple or that banana. Whether you use your produce bag or whether you just chuck it in your normal handbag. If you eat a plant-based diet or have meat regularly in your diet. All of those things are really more of a personal choice and I don’t think it is my place to judge anyone for the choices they make.
Links from the episodes:
Reusable sanitary items with Vanessa Woodthorpe Wright
The 5 R’s Podcast episode with Mariska Nell
Recipes:
To be added shortly
KEY TAKE AWAY
“There is no “perfect” choice, only a better choice for the environment.”
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.