Disposable plastics are one of the biggest sources of plastic pollution. Because plastic can take hundreds of years to degrade, it often results in landfill sites becoming full of plastic. And when plastic does break down, it ends up releasing microplastics into the water, soil and air - which end up being consumed by animals and ourselves.
Fortunately, many disposable plastics can now be recycled or replaced. This can help to prevent plastic pollution from getting worse. Below are just some of the different sources of disposable plastic and how you can cut them out of your life.
Grocery bags
Are you a plastic bag hoarder? Taking a reusable bag with you every time you go shopping can prevent the need to collect bags. Get into the habit of keeping bags in your car so that you’re prepared if you want to do a last minute grocery shop.
Wrapping
Many products are wrapped in plastic, but often don’t need to be. This includes products like fruit, clothes and even books. Making a conscious effort to not buy products wrapped in plastic can reduce the demand for these products. Local food produce and second-hand items are often not wrapped in plastic.
Water bottles
Tap water is fine to drink in most parts of the US, and yet many of us still buy bottled water. Even if you need a drink on the go, there is always the option of bringing a reusable bottle - you can get this filled up with tap water for free at most restaurants and gas stations.
Straws
Many areas of the US have started banning plastic straws. However, you can still find them in some cities and states. Carrying a reusable straw around with you (such as a metal straw) could prevent the need to use plastic straws. These tend to be more robust than disposable paper straws.
Toothbrushes
Most toothbrush handles are made of plastic. However, you can buy sustainable options made from bamboo. Next time you need to replace your toothbrush, consider a bamboo toothbrush.
Tampons
Many women’s sanitary products contain plastics too. This often isn’t necessary and a growing number of eco-friendly period care options have started to appear on the market. Switching to these products could be an effective way to reduce single use plastic consumption.
Wet wipes
Bans on wet wipes containing plastic have already been put into place in several countries around the world. While you can still buy wet wipes containing plastic around the US, many states are looking to ban them in the near future. Fortunately, there are many organic flushable alternatives on the market. Choosing these wipes could be a great way to reduce plastic waste.
Cotton swabs
Most cotton swabs are made from plastic, but you can buy sustainable cotton swabs. These are made from products like bamboo. Of course, it’s important to consider what you use cotton swabs for. While many of us use them to clean our ears, it can be unhealthy for our ears to use them for this purpose - so giving them up altogether could be a better solution.
Cleaning chemical bottles
A lot of cleaning chemicals are stored in plastic bottles. A lot of these are recyclable, but this is not always the case. Embracing DIY cleaning products like baking soda and vinegar could be a way to reduce use of these chemicals - baking soda can be bought in recyclable cardboard containers, while vinegar can be bought in recyclable glass containers.
Cigarette butts/vape pens
Smoking and using disposable vapes contributes to plastic waste too. Giving up smoking and vaping is the best solution to this. Alternatively, consider using a refillable vape kit.
No comments