The plastic industry is currently under fire for its wasteful and extremely environmentally damaging material. It takes a ridiculous amount of oil and water to create the plastic and then it refuses to biodegrade. We now know that plastic breaks down into tiny pieces that pollute our earth and waters, with damaging effects on even the hardiest of ecosystems.
So, as a consumer, we need to exert our power. Refusing to purchase so many plastic materials will lead to a decline in demand so that less is created. Here are some useful tips to help you reduce your plastic consumption.
Plastic-Free Parties
Wherever possible, avoid using plastic cutlery, plates and cups when hosting a party. Their convenient nature makes them an attractive option, since you can simply use and then throw away, without having to worry about the washing up, but they sit around on landfill for a very long time (estimated at around 450 years). Is an extra half an hour of washing-up really worth the damage to the world?
Stop Buying Balloons
Your child might adore them but when they lose interest and let go of their balloon, it can travel miles before finally landing. They are extremely harmful to wildlife, entangling birds and often being mistaken for food. If they make it into the water, the effects are devastating. Find another way to decorate parties or remember lost loved ones.
Lose the Plastic Straw
When a fast-food chain like McDonald’s gets in on the plastic straw revolution, you know things must be serious. If you do visit an establishment that is still dishing out plastic straws, either refuse them or take your own reusable straw. If you happen to be in McDonalds any time soon, tell them that the next step is to swap the plastic drink lids out for an alternative too!
Think Big
When shopping, try to buy more products in bulk, in order to reduce the amount of packaging involved in your purchase. This will also save you money in the long run and lessen the number of times you have to run to the shop, which will also have an effect on the amount of petrol needed to get you there! By now, you should be routinely taking your own shopping bags with you, but if you are not, it is vital that you start!
Recycle Right
If you are conscientious enough to be recycling, then it is important that you get it right. A large proportion of our recycling gets emptied into landfill anyway, due to contamination. Make sure that your rubbish all goes in the correct bin and wash any food scraps on sauce off containers before recycling them.
Skip Bottled for Tap
Leave those awful plastic bottles on the shelf of the convenience store and buy yourself a HydrateM8 hydration tracker bottle. Fill it up with tap water first thing in the morning and then take it with you wherever you go. It’s a cheaper alternative that is great for the environment.
