Not only is plastic harmful to our bodies to consume, but it’s also hurting our oceans at an alarming rate. Each year, at least 8 million tons of plastic enter our oceans. The most common items being plastic bags, plastic beverage containers, cigarette butts and food.The good news is that we have the power to make a difference through these small changes to our lifestyle.
1. Opt for glass instead of plastic for leftovers. Unlike plastic, glass is a nonporous surface, so it does not absorb food and germs. It’s also easier to clean and doesn’t stain permanently like plastic tupperware does when you store certain acidic foods in it. We recommend this set from Crate and Barrel.
2. Cloth towels instead of paper towels. The average U.S. household goes through a shocking amount of paper towels each month. Why not invest in some cloth towels and launder them? You’ll be saving the plastic packaging and trees in the process. These cloth towels come in under $1 a piece
3. Ditch plastic straws. Replace plastic straws with a metal or paper option. One metal straw can save about 500 plastic straws from ending up in our waterways. Try these metal straws at home to start.
4. Reusable water bottle instead of plastic water bottles. Plastic water bottles are one of the most wasteful products in existence—you drink the water and then throw away the bottle forever. Instead, find a reusable water bottle you like and use it daily. You’ll save both money and the environment. Here’s one that has pretty good reviews.
5. Swap shampoo and conditioner bottles for bars. . Companies like Lush offer products such as shampoo and conditioner bars that last up to 80 washes. One bar can replace one to two plastic containers.
