We all know that cutting down on plastic is something we all must work together to do, but plastic is, literally, everywhere. It can feel daunting to even start the process of cutting down, but Stacey Feeley, co-founder of goSili, breaks it down into easy, manageable ways.
Keep reading for how to work on cutting down plastic in your day-to-day life.
Say No to Plastic Bags— Bring Your Own Instead
“Plastic bags are not recyclable and never fully decompose. After 1000 years, they turn into microplastics and continue to harm our environment, but solving this issue is easy and it starts with you. Simply keep a tote bag with you at all times. Put it in your purse, backpack or leave it near the door so you remember to grab it before you go. When shopping for groceries or picking up food at a restaurant— always bring your bag. This small habit creates a huge impact!”
No More Single Use Straws
“Plastic straws have a similar story to plastic bags— they can’t be recycled and won’t be accepted by a curbside pickup. They’re used for 5 minutes but continue polluting our planet for years to come. Let’s kick out this unnecessary habit! Get a set of reusable straws to carry with you, bring them to restaurants, parties, and everywhere you go. To make this habit super easy for you, we created a keychain straw with a travel case. That way you always have your eco-friendly straw with you.”
Ditch Plastic Water Bottles For Good
“Carrying your own reusable plastic bottle is better for you, for your wallet, and for the environment—make the switch! Create the habit of bringing your water bottle everywhere.”
Make Your Morning Cup of Joe Sustainable
“There are a few ways to keep your coffee sustainable and plastic-free. For starters, make more coffee at home instead of buying it at a coffee shop. Make sure to buy organic, fair-trade coffee in bulk to skip the plastic packaging. For the on-the-go days when you’re shopping at a coffee shop—bring your own cup! This saves our oceans As convenient as small plastic bags might be to carry snacks or sandwiches, they’re causing too much harm. Make the switch! With a reusable silicone snack bag, you get the exact same use out of it for less money and less pollution.”
De-plastify Your Snacks
“As convenient as small plastic bags might be to carry snacks or sandwiches, they’re causing too much harm. Make the switch. With a reusable silicone snack bag, you get the exact same use out of it for less money and less pollution. These reusable snack bags for the perfect plastic-free alternative.”
Curb Your Food Plastic Containers
“You can make this a slow transition—stop buying plastic and slowly switch to glass, silicone, stainless steel or whatever you prefer.”
Ditch Your Clingwrap
“There are many options to help you ditch plastic cling wrap. It’s hard to use anyway so making the switch is a no-brainer. For an easy, affordable alternative, try these reusable wraps.”
Hit Your Local Farmer’s Market
“Instead of big chain supermarkets where all food is packaged in plastic, support the local economy by shopping at the farmer’s market! It’s usually more affordable and the food is fresher too. Give it a go! Trying to find a local farmer’s market? Check out this tool to find the nearest one.”
Cool Meals From Scratch
“Pre-made meals usually come in plastic containers or packaging. By cooking more meals from scratch not only do you get more nutritious and delicious foods, but you’re also skipping the plastic.”
Find Refillable Options for Cleaning Supplies or DIY!
“Cleaning supplies can be tricky to find without all the plastic packaging. Thankfully, many companies are taking action to change that! If you haven’t already, switch your laundry detergent to eco-strips. You can also find refillable options for many cleaning supplies here. And if you’re feeling creative, here’s how to DIY.”
Get a Water Filter for Your Home
“There is no need to have plastic bottles of water at home. Having a filter is way better for the environment and for your wallet. Check out these great filters.”
Skip the Snacks Wrapped in Plastic
“Yes, potato chips and bars are so convenient—but the wrapper stays in our environment for hundreds of years. Try making your own snacks instead or look for plastic-free snacks like fruit or nuts in bulk.”
Switch to a Plastic-Free Deodorant
“There are now many brands that give you natural deodorant that’s plastic-free like Native’s Plastic-Free Deodorant.
Make Your Shower Plastic Free
“Same as with cleaning products, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash are mainly water. The good thing is that you can just buy the concentrate bar! Our favorite is Viori.”
No More Disposable Razors
“Kiss your disposable plastic razors goodbye! Stainless steel razors are everlasting, give you a better shave, and are better for the environment.”
