10 Easy Ways to Ditch Single-Use Plastics

Plastic-Free July is a powerful reminder to eliminate single-use plastics from our lives. But we often struggle with where to start. Here are 10 practical steps you can easily implement in your daily life, without overwhelming you:

1. Cloth Bag Stone

Market, bazaar, store... Wherever you are, bring a cloth bag. Plastic bags enter our lives in seconds and last for centuries in the environment. Cloth bags, on the other hand, are long-lasting, washable, and environmentally friendly.

2. Get a Reusable Water Bottle

Plastic bottles are harmful to both our health and the environment. Complete your bag with a lightweight and stylish thermos or glass water bottle; always carry water with you.

3. Start Using Metal or Bamboo Straws

Plastic straws may seem small, but they're biodegradable. Accessorize your bag with a metal or bamboo straw, and enjoy your coffee and drinks without creating plastic waste.

4. Switch to Your Own Coffee Mug

When getting coffee from a cafe, use a thermos instead of a disposable cup. This will keep your coffee hotter for longer and reduce the use of plastic lids and cups.

5. Reduce Plastic Storage Containers, Use Glass Jars

Make room for glass jars in your kitchen. Storing dry goods, legumes, and snacks in glass jars is not only healthier, more aesthetically pleasing, but also reduces plastic consumption.

6. Choose Beeswax Sheets Instead of Cling Film

Beeswax wraps are a great alternative to plastic wrap. You can wrap your food in them, wash them, and use them again and again.

7. Replace Plastic Toothbrush with Bamboo

Plastic toothbrushes are thrown away every 3-4 months and never biodegrade. Bamboo toothbrushes, on the other hand, are biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

8. Reduce Plastic Packaged Products

When shopping, choose products with minimal or no packaging. Soap, shampoo bars, and loose beans are a good place to start.

9. Give Up Disposable Forks, Spoons, and Knives

Make it a habit to carry your own cutlery when dining out or getting takeout. Lightweight and easy-to-carry sets will help you avoid plastic waste.

10. Use Mesh Bags Instead of Plastic Bags

Instead of using thin plastic grocery bags, opt for mesh bags when shopping for fruit and vegetables. These washable, lightweight, and environmentally friendly bags are much healthier in the long run.

Final Word

Plastic-Free July isn't just a month; it can be the start of a sustainable lifestyle. Remember, every small step is part of a bigger change.

This month, incorporate some of these 10 suggestions into your life and make a difference for the planet.