8 Simple Ways to Use Less Plastic in Your Life
Small actions such as replacing your plastic toothbrush and lunchbox with reusable versions can make a big difference to the environment.
Here are some practical steps we can all take.
Avoid single-use plastic as much as possible
Use a refillable water bottle and take a reusable coffee cup when you go to buy your morning brew. Some coffee shops even give a discount when you bring your own cup.
If you have the time, you could turn this into a relaxing moment by choosing a mug instead of a covered thermal cup, and sit in the shop while you drink.
Be aware and prepared
Meeting friends for a picnic? Ask everyone to bring their own reusable plate, cup and utensils. That way, nobody is burdened with bringing all the dishware and it’s easy for each person to carry home and wash their utensils. Do the same in your work environment.
Bring reusable market bags
Take lightweight reusable grocery and produce bags with you whenever you go to the supermarket. If your groceries are being delivered, request boxes, paper bags or reusable bags instead of plastic.
Don’t be fooled by paper party goods
Very often people think single-use paper or bamboo is better than single-use plastic, but anything that is single use is bad for us and the environment.
A paper cup, for instance, is heavier than a plastic cup, so there is more energy that goes into making and transporting it. And paper goods often have a thin layer of plastic on top so you’re not escaping the plastic entirely.
Buy bigger packages
So much of what we buy is packaged in plastic, If you want a particular snack, buy the biggest bag you can find as opposed to small individual bags. The bigger you buy, the less wrapping you waste.
Brush with bamboo
Instead of throwing out your plastic toothbrush every few months, get a bamboo toothbrush and compost it when it’s worn out. Several companies offer wood or bamboo toothbrush handles that can be used indefinitely when fitted with a new brush.
Take it easy with takeout
Whenever possible, make your restaurant experience an eat-in rather than a takeout affair because takeout usually comes in plastic containers with many throwaway wrappings.
If you must get takeout, see how to minimize what you get. For example, request no plastic packs of condiments and no plastic cutlery.
Banish that roll of plastic wrap
Clear plastic cling wrap is simply unnecessary. Use a plate as a cover, purchase reusable bowl covers, or store your leftovers in a lidded container. Some items don’t really need to be covered; you can put half a lemon in the vegetable bin cut side down.
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