Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues we face today. It threatens wildlife, pollutes oceans, and can take centuries to degrade. Reducing your plastic consumption not only helps the environment but also promotes a healthier lifestyle. And there is no better time to reduce your plastic consumption than Plastic Free July! This month long challenge is a great place to evaluate where you encounter plastics in your daily life. To help you get started, here are ten straightforward (and effective!) ways to cut down on your plastic use.
1. Choose reusable water bottles (and coffee cups)
Instead of buying bottled water, invest in a nice reusable water bottle and carry that around with you. I never leave my house without my trusty water bottle! Most places these days have a water bottle filler or water fountain if you find yourself running low on water. You can even bring an empty water bottle through security and fill it up at the airport! Along with water bottles, get a nice reusable coffee mug to reduce the need for disposable cups as well.
2. Use reusable shopping bags
One of the simplest ways to reduce plastic waste is to stop using plastic shopping bags. Invest in reusable bags (or use the bags you most likely already have!) and keep them in your car or your purse so you’re never caught without them when you go shopping. And this doesn’t mean just grocery shopping either – you can use reusable bags at every store! This small change can significantly reduce the amount of single-use plastic you consume.
3. Avoid plastic straws
For many people, plastic straws are a luxury rather than a necessity. Stop killing wildlife and refuse a straw when ordering drinks at restaurants or bars. If you must have a straw, consider buying a set of reusable ones made from stainless steel, glass, or bamboo.
4. Buy plastic-free items at the grocery store
There seems to be plastic everywhere at the grocery store. Whenever possible, buy loose fruits and vegetables instead of produce that comes in plastic packaging. And don’t forget your reusable produce bags! For other items, always opt for products packaged in glass, cardboard, etc.
5. Or shop in bulk
Purchasing food in the bulk bins can reduce the amount of packaging waste you produce by avoiding it completely. Many stores offer bulk purchase options for items like rice, pasta, cereal, and even spices. Bring your own containers to avoid unnecessary plastic packaging. For those with limited access to bulk, there are still ways you can shop smart at the grocery store.
6. Choose bar products in the bathroom
Bar soaps, shampoo bars, cleanser bars, etc. typically come with less packaging than their liquid counterparts. They aren’t in ugly, bright colored plastic bottles either! Many are available with paper wrapping or no packaging at all, making them a great choice for reducing plastic waste.
7. Skip the plastic and use reusable containers instead
For those who often eat on the go, carrying reusable containers and utensils can significantly cut down on your plastic consumption when bringing leftovers home. In addition, a great way to reduce your plastic consumption each day is to pack a lunch with reusables. Avoid all individually packaged snacks and opt for mason jars, reusable cutlery, and other reusable containers when packing your lunch each day.
8. Find reusable alternatives for your most used products
Take stock of your most used (plastic) items around your house and find a more eco-friendly alternative to invest in. Some of my favorite sustainable investments to date: safety razor, compost bin, and stainless steel pans/utensils in the kitchen!
9. Support companies that are plastic free
Whenever possible, support companies and brands that prioritize plastic-free products and packaging. This not only reduces your personal plastic consumption but also encourages more businesses to consider sustainable packaging alternatives.
10. Learn to recycle properly!
While reducing your plastic use is ideal, proper recycling is crucial for managing the plastic you do consume. Educate yourself on what can and cannot be recycled in your local community and make an effort to sort your waste appropriately.
Reducing your plastic consumption doesn’t have to be complicated. By making small, manageable changes to your daily habits, you can make a significant impact and reduce your plastic consumption. These ten tips are easy to implement and can help you lead a more sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle but they are just the start… I challenge you to use Plastic Free July to limit as much plastic as you can! How do you reduce your plastic consumption??
Love,
Jenna ♥
Thank you for these suggestions! Where I live, there are no more plastic bags given out at stores. You have to bring reusable bags or carry the items you buy!