HUMANS HAVE A PLASTICS PROBLEM
We all can be part of the solution.
‘Plastics never really go away, and the world is running out of places to store our unnecessary garbage. How have you started reducing your use of single-use plastics?’ —Actor Mark Ruffalo
S oda bottles, sandwich bags, straws—they fill the world’s pantries, oceans and landfills. And unlike organic materials, they don’t decompose. There are more than 6.3 billion tons of plastic waste out there, endangering wildlife, waterways and our own health. (And, no, recycling is not the only solution— just 14 percent of plastic is collected for reuse.)
It’s no wonder that environmental experts say kicking our single-use plastic habit is an ideal first step toward saving the planet. Some people, like our Earth Day Heroes (opposite), have given up most plastic, but it’s OK to start small. Our everyday hacks to reducing plastic can help.
1 instead of grocery bag... a
The Standard Baggu, available in a kaleidoscope of colors and prints, is durable, lightweight and can hold three times more than a traditional grocery bag. Plus, it folds into a flat pouch so you can carry it with you on the go. $12, baggu.com
2 instead of plastic wrap...
Bee’s Wrap is handmade in Vermont by infusing cotton with beeswax, jojoba oil and tree resin. The result: reusable food wraps in beautiful prints. Tip: Use the warmth of your hands to soften the wrap and create a seal. Then, when it’s cool, the wrap will hold its shape. $18–$21 for a 3-pack, beeswrap.com
3 instead of synthetic sponges...
UnSponges from Rowen Stillwater are a cotton alternative to kitchen sink sponges and are good for four to six months, depending on use. Wash and tumble dry, and when you’re done, recycle them at a fabric bank or compost them in small pieces. $7, etsy.com
4 instead of plastic water bottles...
Grab a Soma Glass Water
Bottle, and for every one purchased, the company will make a donation to Charity: Water, a nonprofit that supports safe drinking water projects globally. $30, drinksoma.com
5 instead plastic of your toothbrush...
Baboo harvests organically grown Moso bamboo, which grows more than three feet per day, so this Bamboo Toothbrush, with a 100-percent biodegradable handle, is a super-sustainable purchase. $12 for two, amazon.com
6 instead of lunch bags...
Ditch that plastic bag in favor ofa Waxed Canvas Lunch Bag from WAAMIndustries. $24, waamindustries.com
7 instead of plastic utensils at work...
To-Go Ware’s Bamboo Utensil
Set provides a long-lasting alternative to wasteful plastic cutlery. $13, earthhero.com
8 instead plastic of straws...
These Glass Straws are shatterresistant, dishwasher-safe and come with two cleaning brushes. $11, amazon.com