At a time of the year when many of us are recommitting to good habits, this is the perfect moment to resolve to curb the amount of plastic we invite into our lives.
Perhaps surprisingly, brain science suggests that the best way to change habits is to do them in one fell swoop. It is also best to shift multiple habits at the same time, rather than commit to change piecemeal.
Here is a smorgasbord of ideas for plastic reduction that you can choose to start living out today. Take our challenge to adopt five new habits and let us know how it goes.
1. Bring a reusable water bottle with you whenever you leave the house.
2. Get a to-go mug and bring it with you when you suspect a warm drink-on-the-go is in your lucky future.
3. Quit plastic bags. Replace them with reusable bags, a funky woven basket, or, in a pinch, even cardboard boxes you can get for free from many stores.
4. Get onboard the Straws Suck campaign and always ask for no straw. Reusable bamboo, glass and stainless steel straws are easy to find, if you feel you can't go without.
5. Buy in bulk. Even better if you shop for bulk items at a location that allows you to bring in your own reusable containers.
6. Refuse single-use plastic cutlery. Keep a set in your bag or car for those times you need them.
7. Never ever accept a single-use coffee cup if you are indulging in a drink at a venue that also has reusable mugs.
8. Pack lunch for you and your loved ones in reusable containers rather than buying single-serve snacks.
9. Invest in rinsable, beeswax-infused wraps to replace single-use cling wrap.
10. Avoid synthetic clothing.
11. Learn how to repair something. Whatever you can fix, you don't need to buy new.
12. Buy shampoo and conditioner in bulk, or learn how to make your own.
13. Find packaging-free soap.
14. Shop for veggies at the local farmers’ market. Bring your own bags.
15. Replace chemically-laden dryer sheets with reusable wool dryer balls.
16. Learn how to make three of your own condiments.
17. Trade out harsh chemical cleaners with vinegar, baking soda, and lemon. Free recipes are easily found online.
18. Shop in thrift stores before opting to buy new.
19. Start using plastic-free or reusable menstrual pads and cups.
20. Get informed about the inefficiencies of plastic recycling.
21. Volunteer for a beach cleanup.
22. Buy pet food in bulk from a local butcher.
23. Avoid plastic toys for pets and children in your life. Many wood and natural fibre choices exist.
Start the challenge today. Invite a friend or co-worker to join you and increase your accountability. Commit to these new habits for a few months and they will become a part of your way of life.
Let’s Talk Trash is qathet Regional District’s waste-reduction education program.
