Plastic pollution is a huge problem that will only worsen if we don’t take steps to reduce our reliance on it. In this blog post, we will discuss some simple shopping habits that can help reduce the amount of plastic waste we produce. Considering these tips when we shop can make a big difference in preserving our environment.
Frequent Stores That Use Paper Bags
One of the simplest ways to reduce your reliance on plastic is too frequent stores that use paper bags instead of plastic. This includes many local grocery stores as well as some big-box retailers. In contrast, paper bags are not perfect but much better for the environment than plastic bags. If you can choose between a paper bag and a plastic bag, always go with the paper.
Buy in Bulk
Another great way to reduce your plastic consumption is to buy in bulk. This means buying larger quantities of rice, beans, and flour. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it will also cut down on the amount of packaging waste you produce. When buying in bulk, always try to choose items that come in recyclable or compostable packaging. This way, you can further reduce your impact on the environment. Also try to buy items that are not individually wrapped. For example, instead of buying a bunch of single serving yogurts, buy one large container of yogurt and portion it out yourself.
Stop Chewing Gum
You might not realize it, but chewing gum is made of plastic. Most gum is made from a type of synthetic rubber known as polyisobutylene. This plastic takes centuries to break down, meaning that every piece of gum you have ever chewed is still in the environment. If you want to do your part to reduce plastic pollution, stop chewing gum.
Buy Cardboard Over Plastic
Whenever possible, try to choose cardboard over plastic. This is especially true when it comes to packaging materials. Cardboard is much more easily recycled than plastic, so it’s a much better environmental choice. If you can choose between cardboard and plastic, always go with the former. In addition to being more eco-friendly, cardboard is usually cheaper than plastic.
By making small changes to how we shop, we can make a big difference in reducing our reliance on plastic. By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can help reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in our landfills and oceans. Let’s do our part to create a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations.
We are all guilty of using single-use plastics such as plastic water bottles, coffee cups, and takeout containers. While it may be convenient, the truth is that these items end up in landfills, where they will sit for hundreds of years.