10 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Plastic Footprint
Have you ever wondered how to reduct your plastic footprint? It’s easier than you might think. Here are 10 tips to reduce your plastic footprint that you can start today.
Carry reusable Cloth Bags
Keep a few in your purse, car, or briefcase and use them instead of plastic shopping bags. At some grocery stores, you will actually get a discount for bringing your own bag.
Avoid Buying Bottled Water
Carry a stainless steel water bottle with you, use water fountains, or drink from the tap. In the U.S., tap water is regulated much more than bottled water. It is perfectly tasty and healthy.
Bring Your Own Coffee Mug
A reusable thermos or coffee mug is easy to transport and durable. Using one will help cut down on Styrofoam cups and plastic lids.
Use Wax Paper or Aluminum Foil
Aluminum foil and wax paper are recyclable and can also add more protection to your food than plastic wrap. Consider storing leftovers in a bowl with a plate over it instead of using plastic wrap.
Don’t Use Straws
Most of the time you don’t really need a lid or straw, especially if you’re staying in a restaurant to eat. Straws were the THIRD most common item found last year during the International coastal Cleanup and can choke seabirds and other marine animals.
Resist the Urge to Wrap your Produce in Plastic
Most produce, like a bunch of bananas or a head of broccoli, is already bundled. If you plan on washing your fruits and veggies when you get home from the store, there is no need to put them in individual plastic bags.
Use a Bar of Soap
This is one of the easiest ways to reduce your plastic footprint. Bars of soap are often less expensive, last longer, and work just as well for washing your hands and body.
Avoid Using Plastic Utensils
Bring your own utensils with you to work if you often take your food. If you need to buy disposable utensils for an event, look for biodegradable alternatives made out of potato or corn starch. These can easily be composted.
Choose Natural Products
Spread the word by telling your retailer about your preference for recyclable and compostable materials. Make an effort to recycle all plastic products and packaging when you buy them. Styrofoam peanuts and take-out containers should be totally avoided since there are many recyclable alternatives. Styrofoam is not recyclable and takes thousands of years to break down in a landfill.
Pick Up Litter
Plastic is harmful to animals and can choke or kill them. When plastic starts to break down, it releases harmful toxins that pollute waterways. Do your part to help care for our watersheds.
The Watershed Project
www.TheWaterShedProject.org
Kathy Dalton
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