Living Plastic Free: Practical Tips to Help You Make the Transition

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Why Say No to Plastic?

Plastic is everywhere — in our homes, our schools and workplaces, and unfortunately, our natural environments. The widespread presence of plastic presents a serious threat to our environment, from polluting our oceans and waterways to harming wildlife. and our very own health and that of our families. But imagine a world where plastic use is heavily reduced, and alternatives become the norm. Is it possible to live plastic free? While it might seem daunting and quite a challenge, the answer is a resounding yes! Here are practical steps and tips to help you embrace a plastic free lifestyle.

Why Say No to Plastic?

The environmental impact of plastic is staggering. Plastics take hundreds of years to decompose, leading to the accumulation of plastic waste in landfills and oceans. Microplastics, tiny particles resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic items, have infiltrated food chains, and can be found in our own bodies, posing health risks to both humans and wildlife. By reducing plastic use, we can mitigate these harmful effects and promote a healthier planet.

Assess Your Plastic Footprint

The first step towards a plastic free lifestyle is understanding your current plastic consumption. Do a simple audit on just how much plastic is finding its way into your world. For instance, take a week to observe and note all the plastic items you use and discard. This could include packaging, single-use items, and household products. Identifying your plastic footprint will help you recognize areas where you can make changes.

Start Small: Reduce Single-Use Plastics

Single-use plastics, such as straws, cutlery, and plastic bags, are some of the most significant contributors to plastic pollution. Fortunately, they are also some of the easiest items to replace. Here are a few simple swaps:

  • Reusable Bags: Invest in a few durable, reusable shopping bags and remember to carry them with you. It’ll become a habit to carry these reusable bags with you when shopping. However, if you forget, and leave them in the car or at home you can always buy some at the supermarket checkout or, if available, grab a cardboard box and use that instead.
  • Eco-Friendly Straws: This is simply fixed by using alternative such as stainless steel, bamboo, or paper straws, or completely stopping using plastic straws. That sounds radical but, once you stop, you’ll soon get used to going without. If you find it hard, but you are determined to make this change, just think of that video that went viral with the poor turtle that had a plastic straw up its nose.
  • Reusable Cutlery: Keep a set of reusable cutlery in your bag for meals on the go.

Take the plunge and say no to plastic.

The planet—and future generations—will thank you.

Opt for Plastic Free Alternatives

Many diverse plastic free products are now available, making it easier to find sustainable alternatives. Look for items made from glass, metal, wood, or natural fibers. Here are some ideas:

  • Toiletries: Use bar soap, shampoo bars, and bamboo toothbrushes instead of plastic-packaged versions.
  • Food Storage: Replace plastic containers and wrap with glass jars, beeswax wraps, or silicone food covers.
  • Cleaning Products: Choose biodegradable sponges, brushes with wooden handles, and natural cleaning solutions.

Buy in Bulk

Purchasing items in bulk can significantly reduce plastic packaging. Bring your own containers to bulk food stores and refill them with grains, nuts, spices, and other pantry staples. Besides food items, many stores also offer bulk options for cleaning supplies and personal care products.

Support Plastic Free Brands

Supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability can make a big difference. Many companies are now committed to reducing plastic waste by offering plastic free products and packaging. When shopping, look for brands that use eco-friendly materials and minimal packaging. Your purchasing choices can drive demand for more sustainable products.

Another suggestion is to follow sites such as I’m Plastic Free for directories and lists of products and suppliers of plastic free goods.

DIY and Upcycle

With some lateral thinking, old items can be upcycled and repurposed (like our grandmothers once did) to reduce waste and also save money. For example, you can turn the old Moccona coffee glass jars into great storage containers or old fabrics into reusable shopping bags. With a little DIY effort, plastic use can be reduced with such creative approaches including making your own cleaning products, beauty items, and even snacks.

Educate and Advocate

Awareness and advocacy are powerful tools in the fight against plastic pollution. Share your journey and tips with friends and family and, if you’re keen, in your local Facebook plastic free group, to inspire others to make changes. Get involved in local initiatives and/or support organizations working to combat plastic waste.

For example, in Western Australia and South Australia, there is the Plastic Ban Solution Finder for local businesses to help them substitute single-use plastic products for more sustainable, reusable and plastic free types of products.

By raising awareness of the issues created by overuse and single-use of plastic, and pushing for and supporting positive policy changes, you can contribute to broad reforms that will help us edge towards a plastic free world.

The Benefits of a Plastic Free Lifestyle

Living plastic free has numerous benefits. Beyond environmental protection, for instance, there are many health benefits. Also, many people find that reducing plastic use leads to a simpler, more intentional lifestyle.

Here are a few advantages of going plastic free

  • Health: Reducing exposure to plastic can decrease the risk of ingesting harmful chemicals and microplastics which can disrupt our hormonal health, leading to issues such as reproductive disorders, metabolic diseases, and developmental problems in children.
  • Savings: Reusable items often have a higher upfront cost but can save money and reduce huge amounts of waste in the long run by reducing the need for disposable products.
  • Mindfulness: A plastic free lifestyle encourages mindful consumption and a greater appreciation for the things we use daily.
  • Minimalism: Using less plastic often means opting for reusable items, which can lead to less clutter about the house. Embracing minimalism can help you focus on what’s really important in life and reduce your stress load. Less clutter and stuff translates positively into less time spent managing, maintaining and organising stuff!

Overcoming Challenges

Transitioning to a plastic free lifestyle can be a challenge for families, especially in a world dominated by convenience and single-use items. It’s essential to be patient and forgiving with yourself and your family. Here are a few tips to overcome common obstacles:

  • Plan Ahead: Carry reusable items like bags, bottles, and cutlery to avoid relying on single-use plastics. Keep a spare set of reusable bags in the car.
  • Research: Look for local stores and markets that offer plastic free options, bulk purchasing and sustainable packaging.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up with new innovations and products that support a plastic free lifestyle.

Conclusion

While it may seem challenging, living plastic free is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. By making mindful choices and supporting sustainable practices, you can significantly reduce your plastic footprint, live a healthier life, and contribute to a healthier planet. Remember, every small step towards going plastic free counts and makes a difference — whether it’s bringing a reusable bag to the grocery store or choosing plastic free products.

Remember our EarthMAD motto, Everyone Acting Responsibly Together Helps Make a Difference. Together, we can make a difference and pave the way for a cleaner, greener future.

So, take the plunge, say no to plastic and try going plastic free. The planet—and future generations—will thank you. 🌍💚

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