I was born at a time when using plastic wasn’t really common. I remember my mother’s shopping basket that almost contained everything. shopping was really different back then. instead of packed groceries in plastic containers, the smell of fresh bread, veggies, and herbs would take over the house.
Following the same vibe, I decided to lower my plastic consumption so my home looks the same alive and vibrant. there is no doubt that we can’t zero our usage of plastic, but there are many ways to make it as least as possible. here are the things I do to minimize plastic exposure in my life:
● I buy detergents and food packs in the largest possible size so they won’t need to be replaced soon. I also use them in moderation.
● I reuse grocery shopping bags for bathroom and bedroom dustbins.
● I refuse to get a plastic bag from the shop. I carry my shopping in my own bag.
● I prefer to buy clothes that are 100% cotton.
● I reuse plastic bottles by keeping plants water in them or having them refilled when I go out (instead of buying a new one).
● I keep the plastic packs that can be used again, like ice cream packs or candy packs, etc for storing dry ingredients or organizing my drawers.
● I shop for food in glass jars and I reuse them.
● I go for paper-packed food as much as I can. bakeries and shops that provide paper packaging are my favorite.
● I do my best to eat at a restaurant rather than ordering. If I have to order, I make sure all the plastic packs are separated for recycling.
● I cook my own food from scratch instead of buying packed ingredients. It takes time to make some recipes from scratch, but it’s worth it.
● I never go out hungry, so I won’t be buying snacks and dispose of the plastic wraps a min later. I treat my stomach at home so it won’t trick me outside.
● I make my own drinks. Be it a shake, juice, coffee, or smoothie, I will make it myself. it’s been almost a year since I’m not going to Starbucks.
● I buy porcelain, glass, and wooden kitchenware instead of plastic kinds. Apart from environmental concerns, I really prefer non-plastic containers for health concerns.
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Reducing plastic consumption is important for both environmental and health reasons. Plastic is not biodegradable, meaning it can take hundreds of years to break down, and it can release harmful chemicals into the environment as it breaks down. Plastic pollution harms wildlife and can also end up in our food and water supplies.
Here are some additional ways reduce your plastic consumption:
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- Bring your own reusable bags, water bottles, and containers when shopping or dining out.
- Avoid products with excess packaging, such as single-use plastic bags or disposable cutlery.
- Choose products made from alternative materials, such as glass or metal, instead of plastic.
- Recycle plastic products whenever possible.
- Support companies and policies that prioritize sustainability and reducing plastic waste.
We can support the environment as individuals and together make a difference.
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This post was previously published on medium.com.
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Photo credit: Dstudio Bcn on Unsplash