Look around you and in less than 5 seconds your eyes land on a piece of plastic at home or in your surrounding community. It’s no wonder why plastic is more prevalent than any other materials we use — the United States generates more plastic waste per capita then another other country yet we only account for 4% of the global population. And when you think that one person can’t make a difference in reducing plastic, think again — on average every one of us discards 286 pounds of plastic annually most of which is single use. So everyday items that we use once like plastic bags, utensils, synthetic fabrics and food wrappers land everywhere in our water and food sources. Plastic does not just disappear magically. Instead, it takes multiple decades to break down and, in the process, emits toxic greenhouse gases that pollute and heat up the environment.
One person can make a difference – think about just your plastic footprint per year, basically the weight of a sea lion, and the impact you can make by making the switch to sustainable that remove the heavy burden of toxins in our homes, our communities and our planet.
Take the Plastic Free July challenge! Start a habit for good and look around your home to start to swap out single use plastic. Need some ideas? Visit our Green Space page to get recommendations on products we’ve tested for a healthy home, body and planet.
After 30 days you will feel an actual weight lifted and may even be inspired to do more! And the planet will thank you.
Here are some other ideas to consider when making the switch!
AT HOME:
Laundry
- For the laundry, switch out heavy jugs and plastic containers for powder in cardboard boxes or liquid in metal bottles, and dissolvable strips. There are plenty of products out there that pack a powerful punch in the wash yet minimize the environmental impact. Look for brands in local stores with eco-friendly packaging or visit sites like Grove Collaborative for plenty of washing options.
Kitchen
- Try dish washing brands in paper-based cartons, aluminum bottles, water activated tablets or solid soap blocks.
- Plenty of green companies offer mail back and refill programs to make your switch go even further to protect the planet.
- Try detergent pods without the microplastics called Dropps – the pod fights tough dish stains but is made of materials and packaging that are gentle on the planet.
IN THE COMMUNITY:
- Leave more than one reusable bag in your car to reduce single use plastic bags at the grocery and other retail stores
- Bring your own reusable containers for leftovers at restaurants or for bringing lunch and snacks to work.
- Skip the plastic utensils and straws for takeout. Ensure when ordering food, you take a moment to fill out the comment section for no utensils or condiments. Pack your own portable utensils for lunch or meals on the go.
- Find a favorite coffee mug and bring it everywhere to your favorite café. In baristas like Starbuck’s, discounts and points are rewarded for bringing your own mug for hot or cold drinks. To skip the lines, you can order ahead on the Starbuck’s app by clicking the personal cup. Your drink will be made at the time of the order ready and waiting for your cup to arrive.
- Water bottles are not just for kids at camp anymore. Bring yours to work, the gym or on errands to ensure you stay hydrated and keep less single use plastic out of landfills.
Learn more about the Plastic Free July challenge and take a permanent break from the plastic you use the most!
Click HERE to download a copy to use.
Visit Local Shops for Reuse Products
Reusable items are EVERYWHERE! You can find great swaps in grocery stores, hardware stores and local gifts shops as well as online and with major box stores.
#SHOPLOCAL whenever possible.
EcoEvolution
Sells eco-friendly, sustainable goods for a low-waste lifestyle
35 Washington St, Norwalk, CT
Reboot Eco
A zero waste & refill shop offering alternatives that make eco-conscious living easy, affordable, and practical.
131 River Rd, Middletown, CT