The United States is the No. 1 trash-producing country in the world at 1,609 pounds per person, per year. Of this trash, China used to process nearly one-third of the recyclable plastic in North America, but not anymore as its garbage ban is fully in effect as of Jan. 1. With waste becoming more difficult to ditch, Americans will need to embrace a zero-waste mentality. Time, money and confusion often top the most cited reasons why people fail to adopt a greener lifestyle, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune or take a ton of time to become an effortless environmentalist.

Gail Barnes, Ph.D., a technology and sustainability expert, says “going green” can be overwhelming however, one of the biggest obstacles to improving environmental conditions is our daily habits. She says if we can start by making a few minor changes in our daily routine, it can add up to making a big difference for the planet. Barnes says simple green changes can also make you feel empowered about taking an active role in protecting the environment and will share with your audience three of the latest eco-friendly trends that are easy to adapt into your already hectic schedule (including: plogging, compostable lunching, autopilot unplugging).

South African born and educated, Barnes is multilingual and has a Master of Science degree in Biology and a Ph.D. in Applied Chemistry – Food Science from the University of Natal. She earned her Master of Business Leadership from the School of Business Leadership at the University of South Africa.

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To listen to the interview, click the player below. If you have any questions, comments, or suggestion, please use the comment section under this post or contact Ellen Kamhi here.