Reducing Plastic Pollution: Everyday Actions For A Healthier Planet

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue that is causing harm to our planet and costing the lives of millions of animals on land and at sea every year. It is therefore our responsibility to put an end to the damage that plastic is causing to our world. This paragraph introduces the topic of how to realistically reduce plastic pollution in everyday life, which will explore the various ways in which individuals can make a difference and contribute to a healthier ecosystem. From small changes in daily habits to supporting legislation and organisations, individuals can play a crucial role in tackling plastic pollution and creating a more sustainable future.

Avoid single-use plastics

Single-use plastics are a major contributor to the plastic pollution problem. These are the plastic items that we use just once and then throw away. They include plastic bags, water bottles, straws, cups, utensils, dry cleaning bags, takeout containers, and plastic packaging. The best way to avoid single-use plastics is to refuse any that you don't need and to use reusable alternatives. Here are some tips to help you avoid single-use plastics in your everyday life:

• Shopping bags: Instead of using plastic bags, take your own reusable bags when you go shopping. Cloth bags are a good option, and you can also find reusable bags made from other materials such as string or wicker.
• Water bottles: Buy a reusable water bottle instead of using disposable plastic water bottles. Reusable bottles are often made of stainless steel, which will keep your drink cold or hot for a long time.
• Takeout containers and coffee cups: If possible, bring your own containers or coffee cups when getting takeout or buying coffee. Some cafes and restaurants may allow you to use your own containers.
• Straws: Refuse plastic straws or, if you like using straws, purchase a reusable one.
• Cutlery: Say no to plastic cutlery when getting takeout or bringing your own lunch to work. Instead, use reusable cutlery made from materials like wood, bamboo, or metal.
• Grocery items: Avoid buying items packaged in plastic. Look for products with minimal packaging or packaging made from cardboard or other recyclable materials. Also, consider buying in bulk to reduce the amount of packaging you use.
• Clothing: Choose clothing made from natural fibres such as cotton and wool instead of synthetic fibres, as these contribute to microplastic pollution.
• Cosmetics: Avoid cosmetics that contain microplastics. Look for natural alternatives, such as lipsticks free of microplastics or brushes made of wood.
• Chewing gum: Most chewing gum contains plastic, so try to buy less chewing gum and opt for natural and organic alternatives. Remember to dispose of chewing gum in the correct recycling container.

Reusable shopping bags

Plastic bags are a major contributor to plastic pollution. They are used for mere minutes to carry groceries, but their environmental impact is massive and long-lasting. The lightweight and convenient plastic produce bags are made from polyethylene, a type of plastic derived from fossil fuels, and are designed for single-use. However, after serving their purpose, many plastic bags end up in landfills, waterways, or the ocean, where they can take hundreds of years to break down, eventually fragmenting into microplastics.

Microplastics, defined as plastic particles less than five millimetres in diameter, are now found everywhere, from the depths of the oceans to the food we eat. As plastic bags degrade over time through exposure to sunlight and physical wear, they break down into microplastics, which are then carried by wind and water, spreading far and wide. Marine life, mistaking these particles for food, ingest them, leading to harmful effects on their health. But the problem doesn't stop there, as microplastics have entered the human food chain, with studies finding them in food, drinking water, and even table salt.

To combat this issue, it is essential to switch from single-use plastic bags to reusable shopping bags. Reusable bags are made from durable, sustainable materials like cotton, mesh, or recycled fabrics, and can be used repeatedly, significantly cutting down on plastic waste. They are designed to withstand repeated use, washing, and wear and tear, making them a more reliable option for carrying groceries.

Using reusable shopping bags has several advantages:

• Environmental Impact: Reducing the demand for single-use plastic bags decreases the amount of plastic waste in landfills and oceans, ultimately curbing the production of microplastics.
• Cost-Effectiveness: While reusable bags may require a small initial investment, they save money in the long run as they can be used for years.
• Health Benefits: Reusable bags are often made from non-toxic materials, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals found in plastic. Additionally, by contributing to the reduction of microplastics in the environment, you are helping to protect your health and that of future generations.
• Convenience and Durability: Reusable shopping bags are sturdier than plastic bags, making them more reliable for carrying groceries without tearing.

Making the switch to reusable shopping bags is a simple yet impactful change that can have far-reaching benefits for the environment and human health. It is a crucial step towards safeguarding our planet and our well-being from the harmful effects of plastic pollution.

Recycle plastic waste

Recycling plastic waste is an important step in reducing plastic pollution. Here are some detailed and direct tips to help you recycle plastic waste effectively and make a positive impact on the environment:

Know Your Local Recycling Program: Different communities have varying recycling capabilities. Check with your local recycling program to find out which types of plastic they accept. The symbols on plastic products, usually found at the bottom, can help you identify the type of plastic and whether it is recyclable in your area. Remember that the general recycling symbol does not always mean your local program accepts that particular type of plastic.

Separate Plastic Bags, Wrap, and Film: These items are recyclable but cannot be placed in your household recycling bin. Look for specific drop-off locations for these materials. Many grocery and department stores accept plastic bags for recycling, or you can visit websites like Earth911 to find the nearest recycling centre.

Avoid Recycling Plastic Utensils and Compostable Plastics: Plastic utensils are rarely recyclable, so consider reducing their use or washing and reusing them. Compostable plastics are also not intended for recycling streams and can contaminate the process. Contact your local waste management company or government to find out about composting programs or drop-off locations for compostable plastic items.

Organise a Recycling Drive: Take an active role in your community by organising a recycling drive. Collect plastic bottles and other accepted containers and take them to your local recycling centre or donate them to a charity in need.

Purchase Recycled Products: When possible, choose products made from recycled plastic materials. This helps to close the loop and ensure that recycled plastics are put to good use. For example, you can use bubble wrap made from recycled plastic during your next move and then recycle it afterward.

Educate and Encourage Others: Spread awareness about the importance of recycling plastic waste among your family, friends, and colleagues. Encourage them to adopt good recycling habits and separate their recyclable plastics. By influencing those around you, you can amplify your positive impact on the environment.

Remember, while recycling is important, it is even better to reduce your plastic consumption and choose reusable options whenever possible. Always try to avoid single-use plastics and opt for reusable alternatives to minimise your plastic waste.

Buy in bulk

Buying in bulk is a great way to reduce plastic pollution in your everyday life. This method of shopping has gained popularity in recent years, as it helps to reduce food waste and curb the tide of plastic packaging that is damaging our planet.

When you buy in bulk, you bring your own containers and bags, and only purchase what you need. This means there is no unnecessary packaging, and no food waste, as you are buying by weight. It is also a more economical and healthy way of shopping.

There are a few simple steps to follow when buying in bulk. Firstly, grab your own containers, such as mason jars, glass containers, or cloth bags. Then, get the tare weight (empty weight) of your container, so you don't pay for the container weight. You can write this weight on the container with a permanent marker, so you don't need to weigh it each time. Next, fill up your bulk item, and take a picture of the label on the bulk bin to avoid printing a new sticker each time. Finally, head to the checkout and provide the label information to the cashier.

There are many items that can be purchased in bulk, including fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, bread, cereals, pasta, pulses, oil, beer, wine, and milk. You can buy these items loose from local neighbourhood stores, markets, and some supermarkets.

By buying in bulk, you will reduce the number of single-use plastics that end up in landfills and natural areas, and you will also save money and eat healthier, fresher food.

Support legislation to curb plastic production

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue that poses a serious threat to the environment, wildlife, and public health. While individual actions to reduce plastic usage are important, addressing the problem at its source through legislation to curb plastic production is crucial. Here are some ways to support and advocate for such legislation:

Support Bag Taxes or Bans

Join the growing movement across cities, counties, and states advocating for legislation that discourages the use of plastic bags. For example, San Francisco and Chicago have implemented measures to reduce plastic bag use, and over 500 other localities have followed suit. These efforts have proven effective, with Washington, D.C., achieving an 85% reduction in plastic bag usage after implementing a five-cent tax. Support similar initiatives in your area and urge elected officials to enact laws that discourage or ban the use of single-use plastic bags.

Advocate for Comprehensive Federal Legislation

On a national level, there is currently a lack of federal laws restricting single-use plastics in the United States. However, this can change with support and advocacy from citizens. Contact your local representatives and express your support for comprehensive federal legislation that bans single-use plastic products, such as bags, straws, and polystyrene foam food containers. Additionally, push for legislation that holds manufacturers accountable for the waste they create, ensuring proper handling and disposal of plastic products.

Encourage Bans on Common Problematic Single-Use Plastic Products

Single-use plastic bags are among the top five most commonly found items on shorelines globally. Support legislation that specifically targets these highly littered items, as focused legislation has proven highly effective in reducing plastic bag usage and their presence in the natural environment. This can include fees or taxes on plastic bags to discourage their use and promote alternatives.

Promote Extended Producer Responsibility

Support laws that hold corporations and manufacturers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their plastic products. Extended producer responsibility regulations require producers to take back their items for reuse, recycling, or proper disposal, increasing recycling rates and preventing plastic waste from ending up in landfills and the environment. This approach ensures that manufacturers are actively involved in reducing plastic waste and encourages more sustainable product design and packaging choices.

Support International Treaties and Agreements

Plastic pollution is a global issue that requires international cooperation. Support and advocate for global treaties and agreements aimed at reducing plastic production and use, such as the "international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution" being negotiated by member countries of the UN's Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution. These international efforts are crucial in addressing the problem on a larger scale and encouraging countries to work together towards shared goals.

Frequently asked questions