At work the other day, the BBC news was on. They were talking about plastic ruining our oceans. There was some guy on there talking about how important it is for us to stop using single-use plastic. He said something that really struck a chord with me.
I’d rather encourage 100% of people to use 10% less plastic than encourage 10% of people use 100% less plastic.
I thought this was a great idea. As someone who wants to use less single-use plastic, it can be difficult in a world where it is everywhere. But if we can all commit to using 10% less, which isn’t a lot, it can still make a difference. As time goes on and you are used to using 10% less, you can cut down by another 10%!
Hopefully, big companies will be helping us make it easier to change our habits. Plastic-free aisle, bringing your own tubs to fill with pasta and rice – all these things could help users consume less plastic!
Want to get on the plastic-free train with me?
Well here are some things you can do to use less plastic.
- Stop using straws. Do you really need straws in your drinks? Always ask for no straws when you buy cocktails or shorts – unless the bar supplies paper straws which are becoming more popular!
- Store bags in your car so you don’t have to buy new ones each time you forget! Even better, buy bags that last longer than a 10p bag for life at Tesco!
- Buy loose produce rather than packaged. It can be tempting to buy that pre-cut broccoli and cauliflower, but it’s not actually that hard to cut it yourself so go for the loose option instead!
- Use a coffee flask and make coffee at home rather than buying take-out from a coffee shop – save on money too!
- Buy refills – lots of products are now coming in re-fillable packagings, such as coffee, household products, herbs and spices.
- Look for zero waste shops! Some shops and market stalls are popping up around the UK that let you buy dry food and grains loose by filling up your own jars. See if there are any near you!
- Make more food to take to work in reusable tubs instead of buying packaged food.
Who is with me?
I’m really trying hard to reduce my use of single use plastic. I’ve bought some metal straws to keep with me so I can say no to plastic straws. I actually don’t like paper straws as they go so soggy so the metal straws are a great alternative.
A big yes to this!