Pollution by plastics is among the most critical problems of the present and the future. As we continue to produce millions of tons of plastic waste that ends up in landfills, oceans, and ecosystems every year, it is evident that reducing our consumption of plastics is something that needs to be done for the sake of the planet. Starting from disposable bags to microbeads, this material is now a constant threat to our environment and animals. But, it is not hard to understand that changing the lifestyle a little can make a big difference. In this blog, we’ll share 10 actionable recommendations on how to minimize plastic use in your life and make our planet greener.
- Bring Your Own Reusable Bags
Reducing the use of plastic is not very difficult and one of the best ways to do this is by carrying our own shopping bags. A majority of stores still use single use plastic bags which then become part of the litter. You can help reduce the amount of plastic bags that end up as litter or in the landfill by carrying your own cloth or canvas bags. Always have a few reusable bags in your car or backpack so that you don’t forget them when you go shopping. It may sound like a small change, but it goes a long way in helping you cut down on your plastic use in the long run.
- Avoid the use of disposable water bottles
Plastic water bottles are one of the most common abuses of the environment and natural resources. For instance, approximately 1 million plastic bottles are bought across the globe every minute, and the bottles find their way to the dumping sites and water bodies. Using a reusable water bottle is an effective and easy change to make. Cans made from stainless steel or BPA-free plastic are safe and can be reused time and again. It also cuts down on the amount of plastic used and is much cheaper in the long run, as well.
- Avoid Single-Use Straws
Plastic straws are among the top items found in ocean clean-ups, and they pose a serious threat to marine life. Many cities and businesses are beginning to phase out plastic straws in favor of more sustainable alternatives like paper, metal, or bamboo. If you often use straws, consider carrying a reusable one with you. Whether dining out or getting a drink on the go, asking for no straw or using your own can help reduce plastic waste.
- Buy in Bulk
Purchasing items in bulk is a great way to cut down on plastic packaging. Many grocery stores now offer bulk sections where you can bring your own containers and fill up on items like grains, nuts, spices, and cleaning products. This practice reduces the need for plastic wrappers and bags, which often come with smaller, pre-packaged items. Not only does buying in bulk reduce plastic waste, but it can also save you money and reduce food waste.
- Choose Glass or Stainless Steel Food Storage
Many people store leftovers and food items in plastic containers or use plastic wrap. However, these materials can leach harmful chemicals into your food and contribute to plastic waste. Instead, opt for glass or stainless steel containers, which are safer, more durable, and reusable. For wrapping food, try using beeswax wraps, which are an excellent alternative to plastic wrap and can be reused many times.
- Say No to Plastic Cutlery
Disposable plastic cutlery is often used once and then thrown away, contributing to the growing plastic waste problem. Next time you order takeout or go to an event, bring your own reusable utensils made from stainless steel or bamboo. Many compact, portable utensil sets are available, making it easy to carry them with you wherever you go. By making this small switch, you can prevent a significant amount of plastic from entering landfills.
- Switch to Bar Soap and Shampoo Bars
Liquid soap and shampoo often come in plastic bottles that are thrown away after use. A great alternative is to use bar soap and shampoo bars, which usually come with minimal or no packaging. These products last longer and are often made with natural ingredients, making them better for both you and the environment. Look for brands that use sustainable practices and biodegradable packaging for an added eco-friendly benefit.
- Recycle Properly
Recycling is a very important process in the reduction of plastics, but it only works if it is done right. Currently, not all plastics are recyclable and the wrong recycling can cause contamination to the rest of the recyclable materials. Learn about the items that should and should not be recycled where you live, and always rinse and sort your recyclables correctly. Recycling is not the answer to the problem, but it does take some of the plastic waste away from the landfill and decreases the need for new plastic production.
- Select Personal Care Products That Are Free from Plastic
It is estimated that 1.5 million plastic microfiber fibers are released every wash from personal care products like toothbrushes, razors, and cosmetics. Try to find a sustainable product made out of biodegradable or recyclable material. For instance, bamboo toothbrushes and safety razors are better options for their plastic counterparts. Also, look for cosmetics that have an environmentally friendly packaging or for companies that are trying to minimize their use of plastics.
- Join Plastic-Free Campaigns
Probably the most effective approach to minimizing plastic usage is to encourage the adoption of policies, campaigns, and firms that advocate for the elimination of plastic products. Most organizations and governments are coming up with policies that can help them minimize the use of plastics, for instance, the use of single-use plastics or promoting the recycling of plastics. You can also support the companies that think green by not using plastic packaging for their products. You can be a conscious consumer and make the necessary changes in the world, to free it of plastic for good.
Conclusion
Reducing our use of plastic products is a great practice since it is one of the ways of embracing the green way of living. You can easily cut down your plastic waste by using reusable items, purchasing in large quantities and opting for more environmentally friendly products. The idea is to be conscious of your actions and try to make as many decisions as sustainable as possible. Now imagine life in 2024 and let’s promise to be more careful and do everything to reduce the use of plastic for the sake of the Earth.