How to Reduce Your Plastic Use
Ellie Striebich
| 3 min read
One of the easiest ways to make a real difference when it comes to the environment is by making simple adjustments to your own lifestyle. As awareness of environmental issues grows, people are looking for ways to reduce their plastic use. Follow this guide to use less plastic.
Why you should reduce plastic use
Plastic pollution is a major environmental problem, harming our oceans and wildlife, and even endangering species. The issue goes further than our environment –cutting down on plastic can lead to a healthier lifestyle, as you avoid harmful chemicals found in many plastic products.
How to start reducing plastic use in your daily life
Starting your journey to reduce plastic use can be simple and rewarding. Start by identifying areas in your daily routine where plastic is most prevalent. This could be in your kitchen, bathroom, or even shopping habits. By knowing where to focus, making changes to your lifestyle will be minimal and have healthy benefits.
Target single-use plastics first
Single-use plastics are among the most significant contributors to pollution. These items frequently used in people’s everyday lives often end up in places they shouldn’t be, harming animals and wildlife. Whether you’re looking to cut back on plastic or eliminate its use all together, here are some places to begin:
Water bottles:
Plastic water bottles are one of the most common and harmful single-use plastic products. In fact, it takes around 450 years on average for a plastic water bottle to decompose if not recycled or disposed of properly. Investing in a reusable water bottle is both environmentally and cost friendly in the long run.
Straws:
Take sustainable hydration a step further by using biodegradable or reusable straws instead of plastic. Both metal and silicone reusable straws are available depending on your preference. If this is not an option, consider opting out of using a straw altogether.
Shopping bags:
Reusable shopping bags might be the first thing that comes to mind when cutting back on plastic use. Switching from plastic to reusable or mesh bags is a great way to jump start your plastic-free July. They are cheap, reusable, and come in a variety of patterns and colors. Requesting paper bags is also an excellent alternative if you forget to bring your own shopping bags.
Coffee:
Consider using steel mesh filters, cloth filters, or reusable k-cups as replacements for single-use coffee filters and k-cups. To go a step further, instead of using Styrofoam or plastic cups, use your favorite mug, tumbler, or thermos for coffee on the go.
Plastic recycling tips
Recycling is a crucial part of managing plastic waste, but it’s important to do it correctly. Here are some tips to ensure you’re recycling effectively.
Clean your plastics:
Rinse containers to remove food and other residue. Dirty items can contaminate ither recyclables.
Avoid wish-cycling:
Never place non-recyclable items in recycling bins as this can cause more harm than good.
Recycle properly:
lids and bottle caps and flatten items before placing them in recycling bins.
