Uk Plastic Pollution: Ways To Help And Make A Difference

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue in the UK and beyond, with plastic found everywhere from our local food shops to our favourite nature spots. It is one of the leading causes of marine wildlife death, as animals ingest it or get entangled in it. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that plastic takes hundreds of years to degrade fully, all the while leaching toxic chemicals. While individual actions such as recycling and reducing single-use plastic can help, the best way to prevent plastic pollution is to reduce the amount of unnecessary plastic being produced in the first place. This involves taking legal action against large corporations and governments that are responsible for pumping tonnes of plastic into our lives.

Reduce single-use plastic

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue, and it's essential to take steps to reduce single-use plastic items to protect the environment and marine life. Here are some detailed and direct actions to reduce your single-use plastic consumption:

Opt for Reusable Water Bottles:

In the UK, approximately 13 billion plastic bottles are used annually, with only about half of them being recycled. By switching to a reusable water bottle, you can significantly reduce your plastic waste output. The Refill app can help you locate places to refill your water bottle for free across the UK, and most restaurants, cafes, and bars will also happily refill your bottle.

Bring Your Own Coffee Cup:

Single-use coffee cups are a significant contributor to plastic waste, with only a small percentage being recycled due to their plastic film lining. Invest in a reusable coffee cup, and you might even get discounts at some cafes.

Choose Loose Produce:

Supermarkets often package fruits and vegetables in plastic. Opt for loose produce instead, and use reusable mesh bags or containers to shop. This way, you can avoid unnecessary plastic packaging and have more control over the quality and quantity of your purchases.

Refill and Bulk Buy:

Look for opportunities to buy in bulk and refill your containers. Many stores now offer refill stations for various products, from food items like flour and nuts to household liquids like dish soap and laundry detergent. You can also bring your own containers, jars, or bags to bulk food stores to stock up on monthly essentials without generating single-use plastic waste.

Say No to Disposable Cutlery:

Single-use plastic cutlery is another major contributor to plastic pollution. It takes over 200 years for these items to decompose. Instead, opt for reusable cutlery, straws, or even carry your own when you're on the go.

Decline Plastic Bags:

The introduction of a plastic bag charge in England led to an impressive 85% decrease in their use. Get into the habit of carrying a reusable shopping bag, and if you forget, most stores offer foldaway bags that take up minimal space in your regular bag.

Remember, reducing single-use plastic is about making small changes that collectively have a significant impact. These suggestions are a great starting point for reducing your environmental footprint and helping to combat plastic pollution in the UK.

Recycle effectively

Recycling is a great way to reduce plastic pollution, but it can be confusing to know what can and can't be recycled. In the UK, there is no unified recycling system, so the rules vary depending on your local area. To recycle effectively, it's important to understand the recycling guidelines specific to your region. You can do this by checking your council's website or looking for recycling symbols on plastic items. Some plastics cannot be recycled and can contaminate the recycling process if mixed with recyclable plastics.

• Familiarise yourself with the most common recycling symbols and what they mean. This will help you identify which plastics can be recycled and ensure you're following the correct procedures.
• Separate your recyclable waste. Keep recyclable plastics separate from non-recyclable waste to avoid contamination.
• Clean and dry your recyclables. Make sure to rinse out any food or liquid residue from containers and let them dry before placing them in the recycling bin. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria and keeps your recycling bin tidy.
• Flatten cardboard boxes and crush plastic bottles to save space in your recycling bin and make it easier for the items to be transported and processed.
• Don't bag your recyclables. Keep your recyclable items loose in the recycling bin, as some recycling centres may not accept bagged items.
• Be mindful of what can't be recycled. Some common non-recyclable items include plastic bags, straws, and certain types of plastic foam. Check with your local guidelines to know what to avoid.

Remember, recycling is just one part of the solution to plastic pollution. It's also important to reduce your overall plastic consumption, reuse items whenever possible, and properly dispose of any plastic waste to prevent it from ending up in our oceans and harming marine life.

Avoid microplastics

Microplastics are a huge concern for human health and the environment. They are found in water, air, soil, food, drinking water, and everyday items like cosmetics, packaging materials, and synthetic clothing. Here are some ways to avoid microplastics:

Avoid single-use plastics

Single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, bottles, disposable cutlery, straws, and plastic wrap, are a major source of plastic pollution. Opt for reusable alternatives made from materials like glass, stainless steel, or bamboo. If you must use plastic containers, avoid heating them in the microwave or storing hot food in them, as heat can increase the release of microplastics.

Choose natural fibre clothing

Synthetic clothing made from materials like polyester, polyamide, and nylon can shed microplastic fibres during washing. Opt for natural fibre clothing, such as cotton, wool, or linen, which shed fewer microplastic fibres.

Be cautious of plastic kitchenware

Plastic kitchenware, such as cutting boards and microwavable food containers, can be a significant source of microplastic contamination. Choose alternatives like tempered glass or sustainable plastic-free cutting boards made from paper fibres. For storing and heating food, opt for glass or ceramic containers, which are microwave-friendly and don't release microplastics.

Avoid products containing microbeads

Microbeads are tiny plastic particles added to personal care products like exfoliating scrubs, toothpaste, and body washes. These microbeads can slip through water treatment plants and end up in the ocean, where they are ingested by marine animals. Opt for natural alternatives like oatmeal or salt for exfoliation, and check ingredient labels to ensure cosmetics, skincare products, and toothpaste are microbead-free.

Filter your drinking water

Microplastics have been found in bottled water and even tap water. Investing in a high-quality water filter can help remove microplastic particles from your drinking water.

Reduce seafood consumption

Seafood, especially shellfish, tends to contain higher levels of microplastics due to their filtering nature. If you choose to consume seafood, opt for wild-caught or sustainably sourced options.

Avoid processed foods

Processed foods are often manufactured using plastic tools or packaging, which can introduce microplastics into the final product. Opt for whole foods and a naturopathic diet rich in organic vegetables, quality protein, and healthy fats.

Be mindful of tea and coffee consumption

Tea bags and paper coffee cups can contain traces of plastic. Loose tea leaves and reusable flasks or bottles are more sustainable and microplastic-free options.

Opt for natural cleaning products

Regular cleaning products may contain microplastics and other harmful chemicals. Natural alternatives like vinegar and baking soda are effective and eco-friendly options.

Support policies and campaigns against plastic pollution

Get involved in campaigns and support policies that aim to reduce plastic pollution. Pressure manufacturers to use less plastic and choose more sustainable competitors when possible.

Volunteer for clean-ups

Volunteering for beach and river clean-ups is a fantastic way to help tackle plastic pollution in the UK. The Marine Conservation Society organises the Great British Beach Clean, a week-long annual event that combines litter-picking with data collection to better understand the plastic pollution crisis in the UK. However, you don't have to wait for this event to participate in a clean-up; local cleans are always happening around the UK, so find one near you and get involved!

Beach and river clean-ups are important because they help remove plastic pollution from our environment before it has a chance to cause harm. Plastic pollution is a significant threat to marine life, with animals becoming tangled in plastic waste or ingesting it, mistaking it for food. It is estimated that 14 million tonnes of plastic are dumped into our oceans each year, and the problem is only getting worse. By volunteering for clean-ups, you can make a direct impact in reducing this pollution and protecting marine life.

During a clean-up event, volunteers are typically provided with gloves and rubbish bags and work together to collect litter from the beach or riverbank. It's important to stay safe and only pick up what you can; some items may be sharp or dangerous, so use caution and avoid anything that looks hazardous. Clean-ups often cover a large area, so be prepared to walk and bring suitable clothing and footwear.

In addition to removing litter, some clean-up events may also involve data collection. This might include recording the types and amounts of litter found, as well as any notable environmental impacts. This data is valuable for understanding the extent and effects of plastic pollution and can inform policies and initiatives to address the problem.

By volunteering for clean-ups, you are taking direct action to protect the environment and raise awareness about plastic pollution. It is a tangible way to make a difference and can be a rewarding experience, knowing that your efforts are helping to restore nature and protect marine life. So, find a local clean-up event near you and join the fight against plastic pollution today!

Support anti-plastic campaigns

Supporting anti-plastic campaigns is a powerful way to contribute to the fight against plastic pollution in the UK. Here are some ways to get involved:

Sign Petitions and Join Campaigns

Your signature on petitions carries weight and influences political change. In the UK, campaigns such as the Marine Conservation Society's "Sewage-Free Seas" have successfully pressured the government to include coastal waters and estuaries in the Storm Overflows Discharge Reduction Plan. By lending your support, you can help bring about similar environmental changes. Look for campaigns that specifically target plastic pollution and work towards reducing its impact on the natural world.

Volunteer for Beach and River Cleanups

Beach and river cleanups are essential because they directly address the plastic waste that has already entered the environment. Organisations like the Marine Conservation Society host cleanup events, such as the Great British Beach Clean, which combines litter picking with data collection to better understand the plastic pollution crisis. Joining such initiatives is a direct and active way to support anti-plastic campaigns.

Support Charities Challenging Plastic Pollution

Consider donating to or becoming a member of environmental charities dedicated to creating healthier seas and challenging plastic pollution. The Marine Conservation Society, for example, uses donations to fund projects and initiatives that combat ocean pollution. By supporting such charities, you can help fund projects that make a tangible difference in reducing plastic pollution.

Advocate for Policy Changes

Use your voice to urge elected officials to implement policies that discourage plastic use. Support initiatives like bag taxes or bans on single-use plastic items. Write letters, engage on social media, and contact your local representatives to show your support for anti-plastic policies. This sends a clear message to decision-makers about the importance of addressing plastic pollution.

Spread Awareness and Educate Others

Educating your community about the dangers of plastic pollution and how they can help is crucial. Share information about the impact of plastic on the environment and encourage others to reduce their plastic consumption. Host educational events, distribute informative materials, or use social media platforms to spread awareness. By empowering others with knowledge, you can create a collective movement for change.

Frequently asked questions