Ending Plastic Pollution: Actionable Steps To Take Today

Plastic pollution is one of the greatest threats to the health of our oceans, with millions of metric tons of plastic entering the ocean each year. This plastic pollution affects all land, freshwater, and marine ecosystems, causing biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. It is clear that plastic pollution is a transboundary issue, and a global crisis. It is in our best interest to keep plastic out of the waste stream and, ultimately, our oceans. So, how do we stop plastic pollution?

Reduce single-use plastic consumption

Plastic pollution has reached crisis levels, with plastic waste pervading our ecosystems and oceans, and leaching toxic chemicals. Single-use plastics are a major contributor to this crisis, and it is imperative that we reduce their consumption to protect our health, communities, and the planet.

One of the most effective ways to reduce single-use plastic consumption is to switch to reusable alternatives. For example, instead of using disposable plastic water bottles, invest in a reusable water bottle that can be refilled at designated water stations. Similarly, carry your own reusable shopping bags, coffee mugs, to-go cups, utensils, and food storage containers to avoid using single-use plastic bags, cups, utensils, and takeaway containers. Refuse plastic straws, and opt for paper or foil to wrap leftovers instead of plastic boxes.

Be mindful of plastic packaging when shopping and choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging. Support businesses that are actively reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices. When it comes to cosmetics, be cautious as many products contain microplastics. Opt for wooden cutting boards instead of plastic ones, as plastic cutting boards can be a significant source of microplastics in your diet.

Educate yourself and others about the impacts of single-use plastics and advocate for policies that address plastic pollution. Support initiatives like the Global Plastics Treaty, which aims to reduce plastic production and hold plastic-polluting corporations accountable. By making small changes in our daily lives and demanding systemic change, we can significantly reduce single-use plastic consumption and mitigate the harmful effects of plastic pollution.

Reuse plastic products

Reusing plastic products is one of the most effective ways to reduce plastic waste. Plastic pollution is a growing threat to the planet and economy, and a significant portion of this pollution comes from single-use plastic items. By reusing plastic products, we can keep them out of the waste stream and reduce the amount of plastic entering our oceans and ecosystems.

One way to reuse plastic products is to adopt reusable items instead of single-use plastics. This includes using reusable water bottles, shopping bags, keep cups, and travel cutlery instead of their disposable plastic counterparts. You can also bring your own reusable containers for leftovers when eating out or buying takeout, and opt for reusable or recyclable containers when packing lunches or gifts.

Another way to reuse plastic is to repair and maintain plastic products so they last longer and don't need to be replaced as frequently. Buying second-hand plastic items and donating or selling unwanted plastic items that are still in good condition are also great ways to extend the lifespan of plastic products.

Some companies are also innovating reuse models. For example, Loop, a subsidiary of TerraCycle, has partnered with leading retailers to allow customers to borrow brand-name packaging that is fully recyclable after 20 to 100 uses. Chilean startup Algramo has introduced a refill-on-the-go distribution model where customers purchase a container once and then refill liquid cleansers from dispensing machines at participating stores.

By embracing a reuse mindset and supporting reuse initiatives, we can significantly reduce plastic waste and keep our planet cleaner and safer for future generations.

Recycle plastic waste

Recycling plastic waste is a crucial step in reducing plastic pollution and its adverse impacts on the environment and human health. While it is important to reduce our overall plastic consumption, recycling can help keep plastic waste out of landfills and ecosystems like oceans and clouds. Recycling flexible plastic films, for instance, can save up to 23% of greenhouse gas emissions compared to manufacturing new plastic.

To recycle plastic waste effectively, it is essential to understand the recycling process and follow some simple guidelines. Firstly, check what types of plastic your local recycling program accepts. Recycling regulations vary by city, so it is worth checking the specific guidelines for your area. Some cities, for example, collect paperboard materials like milk packaging along with plastic waste, while others use separate containers for different waste streams.

Before placing plastic items in the recycling bin, ensure they are cleaned and sorted correctly. Remove any labels, stickers, or food residue, and separate different types of plastic to ensure each material is recycled properly. Sorting plastics by resin type, identified by the number within the recycling symbol, reduces the risk of contamination and allows for continuous recycling.

Additionally, look for recycling labels on products, such as the Australian Recycling Label (ARL) or the How2Recycle label, which provide detailed disposal instructions. These labels can help you determine whether an item is recyclable in your community, as the presence of a recycling symbol does not always indicate acceptance by local recycling programs.

Finally, consider reusing plastic items instead of throwing them away. Bring your own reusable bags, water bottles, and containers to avoid single-use plastic. For plastic items that cannot be recycled or reused, like plastic bags, take them to a local grocery store or recycling center for proper disposal.

Avoid plastic microbeads in cosmetics

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue, with plastic waste taking hundreds of years to degrade and leaching toxic chemicals into the environment. Plastic is pervasive in our ecosystems, and its production and use are contributing to the climate crisis. To combat this, we must reduce plastic use, particularly single-use plastics, and support initiatives like the Global Plastics Treaty.

One significant source of plastic pollution is microbeads in cosmetics. Microbeads are tiny plastic particles, measuring 1mm or less in diameter, that are added to cosmetics and personal care products as exfoliants, emulsifying agents, or fillers. These microplastics are not limited to microbeads but also include microscopic particles made of synthetic polymers. They are commonly found in rinse-off products like facial scrubs, toothpastes, and shampoos, as well as leave-on products like sunscreen, makeup, and deodorants.

To avoid contributing to plastic pollution through the use of cosmetics, here are some recommendations:

• Audit your current bathroom and beauty products: Check the ingredients of your cosmetics and personal care items. Look for terms like "polyethylene" or "polypropylene," which indicate the presence of microplastics. You can also refer to online databases, such as the one provided by Beat the Microbead, to search for specific products or ingredients.
• Choose microbead-free alternatives: Opt for cosmetics and personal care products that do not contain microbeads or microplastics. Support brands that have committed to avoiding these ingredients, such as those listed on the Beat the Microbead website. Additionally, consider small and local producers who create safe, microplastic-free alternatives.
• Make your own products: If you want to ensure complete control over the ingredients in your cosmetics, consider making your own. For example, you can create DIY body scrubs by mixing abrasive ingredients like sugar, salt, coffee grounds, or ground oats with oil.
• Advocate for change: Continue to support campaigns like Beat the Microbead and pressure governments and companies to take action. Since the start of the Beat the Microbead campaign, 19 countries have banned microbeads, and more widespread change is needed.

By taking these steps, you can help reduce the presence of plastic microbeads in cosmetics, contributing to the broader effort to combat plastic pollution and protect our ecosystems and health.

Support government action and global treaties

The plastic pollution crisis demands urgent action from governments and global cooperation. Here are some ways to support government action and global treaties to address this issue:

Support National Strategies and Policies

Firstly, individuals can advocate for and support the implementation of national strategies and policies aimed at reducing plastic pollution. For example, in the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has developed a "National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution," which aims to reduce, recover, and prevent plastic pollution from harming human health and the environment. This strategy includes initiatives such as the "National Recycling Strategy" and the "National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste." By supporting such strategies and policies, individuals can help reduce plastic pollution at a national level.

Encourage International Cooperation and Treaties

Plastic pollution is a global issue that transcends national borders. Therefore, international cooperation and treaties are essential to address this problem effectively. Individuals can support global movements, such as the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations, which aim to reduce plastic production, phase out harmful subsidies, and eliminate harmful products and chemicals. This treaty, negotiated under the United Nations Environmental Assembly, has the potential to create a cleaner, safer planet for current and future generations.

Demand Action from Corporations and Industries

The plastic crisis is fueled by the production and marketing of cheap, disposable plastics by corporations and industries. Individuals can demand accountability and action from these entities, urging them to reduce plastic production, improve waste management practices, and take responsibility for the waste they generate. By holding these corporations accountable, individuals can help reduce plastic pollution at its source.

Participate in Community Initiatives

In addition to supporting government and global initiatives, individuals can actively participate in community-driven initiatives to reduce plastic pollution. This may include joining local organizations or movements dedicated to cleaning up plastic waste from beaches, rivers, or other natural areas. These collective efforts can have a significant impact on reducing plastic pollution and restoring ecosystems.

Educate and Raise Awareness

Spreading awareness about the plastic pollution crisis and its impacts is crucial. Individuals can educate themselves and others about the dangers of plastic pollution, the importance of reducing plastic use, and the existence of alternative, eco-friendly options. By raising awareness, individuals can empower others to make informed choices and support government and global initiatives to address this issue.

The fight against plastic pollution requires a multi-faceted approach, combining individual actions with strong government and global initiatives. By supporting and advocating for these initiatives, individuals can play a crucial role in creating a healthier and more sustainable future for our planet.

Frequently asked questions