All the plastic ever made still exists. Let that sink in for a minute. Every single piece of plastic made in the past century is still around in some form. So how can we go about reducing the amount we use?
Banning plastic straws and using reusable bags is a positive step, but we need to do more about reducing our plastic consumption. Recycling is not enough.
Here’s how you can make small changes in your daily life to cut down using plastic:
Rise and shine
Your morning routine may be sacred. But even bleary-eyed, we can still make better decisions. Try using:
natural exfoliants over microbeads (which are now banned in the UK) found in scrubs
package-free soap, solid shower gel and shampoo (they really exist)
metal razors or electric shavers instead of plastic disposable ones
a bamboo toothbrush, which lasts longer than the plastic versions
Waking up ten minutes earlier means you can make breakfast at home, rather than buying something packaged on the go:
Have tea or coffee at home to avoid using a disposable cup.
Use plastic-free biodegradable tea bags or loose leaf tea.
Some stores allow you to buy cereal in bulk using your own containers. By stocking up on your muesli using reusable tubs, you won’t be wasting excess packaging.
Read the news online instead of getting a newspaper, which is sometimes sold in plastic wrap.
Your working day is hectic, but here are some easy ways to change up your routine to reduce your plastic consumption:
Pack your food using beeswax wrapping instead of plastic wrap.
Use glass Tupperware, which lasts longer than plastic.
Take a reusable cup when visiting a cafe to avoid using throwaway cups.
Invest in a bamboo or metal straw. Both are reusable alternatives to plastic straws.
Bring your own cutlery to avoid plastic disposable ones.
Shopping
Have you ever been at the checkout and kicked yourself for forgetting to bring a reusable bag? Here are some more handy hints to avoid using single-use plastic:
If you forget, ask to reuse a cardboard box for your groceries instead of taking a plastic bag. Most grocery stores or market stalls use these for food delivery.
Avoid excessive plastic wrap and stick fruit and vegetables straight into the basket.
Buy in bulk to reduce packaging and unnecessary single-use plastic.
Try to buy products in glass bottles or jars where possible.
Purchase clothes made from natural products to avoid the microfibers found in viscose, nylon and polyester.
Last year, GVI participants cleaned four tons of plastic from coastal areas in six months. You could really make a difference and help reduce plastic consumption.
Everyone’s invited. Get up to 80% of your program fees covered.
GVI Foundation Grants are now available for conservation programs abroad. Up to AUD 10,000 based on your motivation and circumstances. Apply by 31 Oct.