Plastics and microplastics are clogging our rivers, lakes, oceans, gutters, parks and filling our landfills. Resolve this year to reduce your use of plastic (Source: https://www.beyondplastics.org/actions/join-reuse-revolutoin).
1. Bring your own reusable shopping bags. There are so many great options. Some pack up teeny tiny to allow you to easily carry one in your backpack or purse. Others are larger fold up sturdy models that you can stash in your car. You can even make your own from a t-shirt.
2. Bring your own reusable produce bags. They are sold on-line and in some grocery stores. There are tons of options out there – both cotton and plastic although we’d recommend buying cotton because washing plastic adds micro-plastic particles to our water supply.
3. Carry a reusable water bottle. We strongly suggest that you make it either glass or stainless steel to avoid the chemicals in plastic water bottles. There are a lot of options out there but we look for plastic-free tops. Early research indicates that the plastic tops on plastic water bottles may be the primary source of micro-plastic particles in the water.
4. Carry your own reusable cutlery. There are some really nice metal and bamboo kits available or, if you’re on a budget, just put a fork, spoon and knife from home in a little bag and you’re all set.
5. Say no to plastic straws or carry your own reusable metal or glass straw or use your lips to drink.
6. Buy in bulk. Did you realize you can buy things like oats, beans, grains, flour, sugar, salt, spices, pasta, granola, dried nuts, dried fruits and more foods in bulk using your own reusable bags and containers? See Honest Weight Coop and Whole Foods. It takes a touch more planning but feels great and will lighten your plastic and carbon footprints. Store these things in reusable containers at home. You can also buy cleaning and personal care products in bulk.
7. Bring your own reusable mug to fill up with coffee or tea at the cafe or cafeteria instead of taking a disposable cup.
8. Stop buying certain problem items. Top offenders include anything packaged in a plastic clamshell — berries, greens, tomatoes, peppers, grapes, sandwiches and more and other fruits – this packaging will NOT ever be recycled. Avoid buying chips and bars packaged in non-recyclable foil and plastic layered wrappers and bags.
9. Pack your or your child’s lunch in reusable containers. We recommend metal or glass over plastic because metal is a lot lighter and less breakable than glass.
10. Bring your own reusable take-out containers. If you’re dining out (or even if you’re just buying some coleslaw at the deli), bring your own reusable containers with you to avoid disposable foam, plastic or paper containers. If you forget, try wrapping up your leftovers in a paper napkin or placemat until you get home as the restaurant is just going to throw those things away anyway.