I’m not a big fan of lists of MUSTs or MUST NOTs, since I think that it’s difficult to come up with a list that is relevant for everyone. That said, those little lists that are printed on wallet-size paper are pretty convenient. I think of them as guides, rather than a definitive list.
So, from Co-op America, lists of what not to buy, and good alternatives. (Click on the link to read more details.)
From Co-op America has a list of
Ten Things You Should Never Buy Again:
- Styrofoam cups (Alternatives: Recyclable, compostable paper cups; Best: reusable mugs or cups.)
- Paper towels (Alternatives: Recycled, non-bleached; Best: dishtowels or rags.)
- Bleached coffee filters (Alternatives: unbleached paper filters; Best: reusable filters.)
- Overpackaged foods and other products (Alternatives: minimal or reusable packaging; Best: buy in bulk and user you own containers)
- Teak and mahogany (Alternative: Forest Stewardshiop Council; Best: reuse wood, buy furniture/products from used/salvaged wood.)
- Chemical pesticides and herbicides (Alternatives: organic pest controllers; Best: Plant native plants; integrated pest management; flowers and herbs as natural pesticides.)
- Conventional household cleaners (Alternatives: nontoxic, vegetable-based, biodegradeable cleaners; Best: make your own with vinegar, water and castile soap.)
- Higher octane gas than you need (Alternatives: Buy lowest-octane gas required; Best: Take public transit, bike, walk.)
- Toys made with PVC (#3) plastic (Alternatives: #1 or #2 plastics or sustainable materials; Best: tell manufacturers to stop using PVC plastics.)
- Plastic forks and spoons (Alternatives: User compostable utensils; Best: carry your own utensils and food containers.)
Five More Things You Should Never Buy Again:
- Farm raised salmon (more toxins in farm-riased than wild salmon)
- Rayon (manufacturing process is wasteful and dirty; wood-based fiber contributes to deforestation; poor labor practices in many countries; needs to be drycleaned)
- Beauty/Body care with phthalates and parabens (research indicates harmful)
- Cling wrap (made of #3 PVC; DO NOT HEAT OR MICROWAVE)
- High VOC Paints and Finishes
