We Have a Problem. Be Part of the Solution and Reduce Plastic Use at Home
Our addiction to the convenience of plastic is wrecking the planet. It pollutes, it kills wildlife, and when it breaks down into tiny particles called microplastic, we eat it, drink it and breathe it. Does it harm us? Scientists aren’t sure yet – but personally, I doubt if it can be good for us. We can complain – but we can also help. Here’s how to reduce your plastic use at home.
1. Packaging
Plastic packaging is everywhere. Make yourself more aware of it by really looking at packaging when you go to the supermarket.
- Buy dried products such as rice, pasta, lentils and more in bulk – and bring reusable bags or jars with you to hold them. Then store them at home in glass jars, or sturdy reusable plastic storage containers.
- Plastic toothbrushes are wrapped in plastic. And millions of them are discarded every year. Opt for a bamboo toothbrush that is packaged in cardboard. Both will biodegrade.
- When you find items wrapped in tons of plastic, note the producer and write or email them. Ask them to consider using less destructive materials that are compostable or recyclable.
- Buy fresh produce that isn’t wrapped (markets are good for this) and of course, always bring a reusable cloth bag to hold everything (toss it in the machine with your towels to keep it clean).
More tips below……….
2. Bottles
How many plastic bottles are in your home? Shampoo, conditioner, detergent, dishwashing liquid, shower gel, liquid soap and more.
- Consider replacing shower gel, liquid soap and even shampoo with bar soap.
- Find a refill station to replenish detergent etc., and re-use old bottles that you’ve washed.
- At the very least, buy from a manufacturer that makes the plastic bottles from recycled materials.
3. When You’re Out & About
It’s easy and convenient to grab a coffee or other drink when you’re out and about. But those single-use plastic-lined cups are almost impossible to recycle – and did you know that in the UK alone, 7 million cups are discarded every DAY?
- Carry a reusable coffee cup or flask
- Say no when you are given plastic cutlery. Carry cutlery (e.g. a fork) with you, or use a compostable alternative.
- Of course, always keep a shopping bags in your car, and keep a couple of bags that curl up into a tiny ball, in your handbag or pocket. That way, they’re always handy in case you forget to bring a bigger bag.
4. Toys and Gifts
Childrens’ toys are mostly made from plastic and are wrapped in plastic. You can avoid this by
- Seeking non-plastic toys (this takes a little effort but is rewarding)
- Searching for a toy library in your area to borrow from or donate to. The toys may still be plastic, but at least they’re being re-used.
- Recycling old plastic toys if they cannot be re-used
- Considering charity or thrift shops when looking for gifts.
5. Avoid Cling Film / Cling Wrap
It’s really, really difficult to recycle cling wrap. That means it’s a single-use disposable item, and that’s not cool.
- Instead of covering a bowl or plate with cling wrap, put the contents into a reusable storage container with a lid. (It’ll probably stay fresh for longer, too).
- Or if you want to keep the food on a plate, cover it with a bowl. Or it’s it’s in a bowl, cover it with a plate. (That’s useful for the microwave too, instead of cling film)
- You could also use foil, which can be recycled if it’s fairly clean, but recycling rates are low and its manufacture isn’t very eco-friendly. Reusable containers are much better. If they’re glass, they’re normally oven-proof too.
Its Worth It!
We’re surrounded by plastic – and that means we’re part of the problem.
Luckily, it’s easy to reduce your plastic home by making yourself more aware of what’s that, and making some small changes.
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Warm regards,
P.S. Don’t forget to download your free green living handbook “Live Well, Live Green” here.