10 easy ways to reduce your plastic use this Plastic Free July
Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues in the world today. Plastic is known for its durability and versatility, making it a popular material for various products. However, its durability also makes it a major problem, as plastic can take hundreds of years to decompose. As a result, plastic waste is accumulating in landfills, oceans, and other natural environments, causing harm to wildlife and ecosystems.
Reducing plastic use is crucial to combat this problem and protect the planet. By minimising the amount of plastic we consume and promoting more sustainable alternatives, we can make a significant impact. Here are some ways you can reduce your plastic use this Plastic Free July, and beyond:
1. Plastic-free shopping: Start by avoiding single-use plastic items such as plastic bags, straws, and water bottles. Bring your own reusable bags, bottles, and utensils when shopping or dining out.
2. Choose alternatives: Look for products with minimal or no plastic packaging. Opt for products made from more sustainable materials like glass, metal, or paper as well as Ocean Waste Plastic. At Beautaniq Beauty we use Ocean Waste Plastic in our bottles and pumps. OWP is post-consumer recycled plastic derived from plastic waste, collected by local fishermen in and around the Java Sea and rivers in Jakarta, and handed over to relevant local authorities to be recycled into new, sustainable packaging. OWP production emits 75% fewer greenhouse gases than virgin plastic.
3. Refillable options: Seek out stores or businesses that offer refillable options for common household items, such as cleaning supplies, personal care products, and pantry staples. This reduces the need for single-use plastic containers.
4. Say no to plastic cutlery: When ordering takeouts, request that plastic cutlery be left out of your order. Use your own reusable utensils instead.
5. Start composting: Reduce plastic waste by composting organic materials instead of throwing them away in plastic bags. Composting not only helps reduce plastic use but also turns waste into nutrient-rich soil. Your garden will thank you, too!
6. Recycle correctly: Make sure to correctly sort and recycle the plastic items you do use. If you're unsure, reach out to your local council for advice. Additionally, consider recycling programs that focus on hard-to-recycle plastics like plastic film or styrofoam.
7. Spread awareness: Educate others about the importance of reducing plastic use and share tips on sustainable alternatives. Promote the use of reusable products and the benefits of living a plastic-free lifestyle.
8. Purchase a reusable water bottle: Instead of buying single-use plastic water bottles, carry a refillable one. Fill it up with tap water whenever possible.
9. Use beeswax wraps or silicone food covers instead of plastic wrap: These reusable alternatives can be used to cover and store leftover food instead of using clingfilm or tin foil.
10. Try to shop from plastic-neutral brands: At Beautaniq Beauty, we are proud to be certified plastic neutral with Repurpose Global. This means we enable the removal of one ocean-bound plastic product for every product we sell. So every purchase you make with us will carry a zero plastic footprint, always. Find out more about our sustainability promises here.
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"Great skincare should not come at a cost to our planet and it is our mission to try to find new ways to achieve a more sustainable future for both the environment and the beauty industry. We believe that being socially responsible and having a positive environmental impact is just as important for us as making clinically active skincare products that are proven to work." - Ning Cheah, CEO - Beautaniq Beauty
Reducing plastic use is a collective effort that requires changes in consumer behaviour, government policies, and corporate practices. By adopting these simple strategies, we can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future for our planet. Remember, every small action counts when it comes to reducing your plastic consumption.
Will you be working towards less plastic consumption? Learn more about the Plastic Free July movement here, and ways you can take your first step.
Calculate just how much plastic you waste each year here.