Ditch Disposable Plastics

We are finding out more and more how harmful single-use plastics are to our environment and how hard they are to recycle.

Reducing Disposable Plastic

Here are a few easy ideas to begin cutting plastic waste out of your life.

• Replace plastic wrap and ziplock bags with beeswax wraps. You can purchase these or make your own.
• Cut out bottled water! Use a reusable water bottle instead, and if you can’t stand tap water, use a refillable water jug and dispenser like Culligan or Primo, which can be refilled in grocery stores.
• Ask for no straw when you order a drink at a restaurant or coffee shop. Bring your own reusable straw instead.
• Bring your own reusable food storage containers to restaurants for leftovers or take-out.
• Shop smart at the grocery store:
  • Buy items with minimal packaging and separate into snack size portions later using reusable containers.
  • Bring your own reusable bags for produce and containers for bulk items – make sure to get the tare weight before filling them up. Click here for a list of local grocery stores and the bulk items they offer (you’ll need to create a free account to view.)
  • Bring your own reusable grocery bag or choose paper over plastic which can be recycled with cardboard.
• Keep silverware, a coffee thermos, and a reusable water bottle at work to reduce waste from lunch and coffee breaks.
• Make your own dairy products that normally come in plastic containers – most are surprisingly easy. Here’s a yogurt recipe (look for yogurt starter at local health food stores), a sour cream recipe, and a cottage cheese recipe.
• Make your own household cleaning products with just a few simple ingredients.
• Try waste-free shampoo and conditioner bars instead of bottles.
• Want more ways to cut out plastic? Click here.