How to Break Up with Plastic (For Good)

Plastic is one of the worst polluters ever (everrrrrrr!) it’s petroleum (oil) based, takes hundreds of years to break down - and even then just becomes micro-plastic which is an even worse problem and it will outlast all of us.

This week, I want to challenge you to No New Plastic. Be more diligent when grocery shopping, as most plastic comes into our lives by way of food, as well as buying everyday lifestyle products. Below are 5 simple ways to reduce your plastic consumption. 

BYOB - Bring Your Own Bag. I know with the pandemic it’s been hard to bring your own reusable bags grocery shopping, but many are beginning to lift their restrictions on this. If your grocer still isn’t allowing you to BYOB, remember to ask for paper bags during check out; they’re much easier to recycle or even tear up and add to your compost.

Keep Your Eyes Open. Packaging is always a tough one to avoid, let’s be real, plastic is cheap and easy for companies to package things in. For food, opt for things packaged in glass (such as oils, sauces and spices), cardboard or paper (for dry goods such as pasta, rice and other grains). When buying fresh produce, use reusable produce bags, they also tend to keep things fresher longer than plastic bags, which will help lessen your food waste as well.

Disposable Razor for Safety Razor. This swap is generally more expensive up front, but will last you a lifetime and replacement blades are very inexpensive. Just be sure to store it with the blade out and the razor open in a dry place to prevent any possible rust.

Bottles Shampoo & Conditioner for Solid, Package-Free Options. Not only will you get a longer use out of the solid versions of these products, but you’ll be saving an average of 24 plastic bottles, too.

Plastic Water Bottle for a Reusable Water Bottle. Plastic water bottles are one of the biggest contributors to plastic waste, do yourself a favor and invest in a plastic-free reusable option, it doesn’t have to be expensive either. You can opt for a glass/silicone option or a stainless bottle, oftentimes you can even find a fun color to show off your personality!

Remember, being environmentally friendly and lessening the use of plastic is a process. No one is perfect. The key is being conscious of your choices, knowing how to repurpose plastic and properly recycling it when you're done using it.