9 things each of us can do to reduce plastic consumption

It's best to start saving the planet from the nearest environment. By changing your habits you will not make garbage heaps disappear suddenly. At most they will grow, only more slowly. But if your friends follow your example and  persuade their friends, then something may change for the better. After all, big changes start with small steps, such as those described below. Here are some simple ways to reduce the production of rubbish in your household.

Are you going shopping? Bring your bag with you!

We're used to the fact that you do not have to remember anything. You do not have anything to pack your shopping in? No worries! A smiling shop assistant will give you a piece of plastic where you will transfer everything that has landed in your basket, only to get rid of it in a quarter of an hour. Stop! Plastic bags and net bags are a big problem for the environment. The dumps are carried away by the wind, and with the stream of rivers they flow into the seas and oceans. They harm animals, and consequently us, because we simply swallow those tiny, microscopic particles. Luckily, it can be stopped.

Before plastic bags were introduced in the stores, everyone remembered to bring their own shopping bags. Fortunately today this fashion is coming back again. It does not matter what the shopping bag is made of. It is important that it is multi-use, and it will accompany you every time you go shopping. If you have gathered a large collection of plastic bags, do not expand it anymore. Use what you have instead of reaching for new ones.

Avoid products packed in plastic

At one time plastic hit the packaging industry. It was lightweight, convenient to use, cheap to produce, and protected the content quite well. Now that we know how serious a threat to the environment plastic can be, it is worth choosing products with the least amount of it.

Of course, the boycott of all products used for packaging is impossible. We will not be inclined to do this for sure. However, you can do your shopping more consciously. If you have a choice, opt for organic packaging. Avoid products where plastic protection is a mere whim. If, for example, in your favorite supermarket vegetables are served on plastic trays, go to a nearby bazaar where such procedures are not applied. Maybe instead of a large bottle of shower gel it is worth buying an ordinary bar of soap wrapped in  plain paper?

Give waterworks a chance

This is another habit we have: bringing all the water packs from the store. Water packed in plastic PET bottles. Yes, they are handy because you can easily fit them in your purse or backpack when you go out somewhere. The problem is that from such bottles, which are not always properly crushed, grows a real garbage heap. Recycling? It is becoming more and more popular, but it is never that all packages are suitable for it.

However, PET bottles can play a smaller role in your life. It turns out that the water you buy -often referred to as  "spring water" - can be comparable or even inferior to the water flowing from the tap. Of course, mineral water is also poured into PET bottles, but we shouldn't drink too much of it. Waterwork companies along with environmentalists are increasingly urging residents to change their habits. It is worth giving tap water a try, because thanks to this you will significantly reduce the production of rubbish. If you have doubts whether the water from the waterworks meets your expectations, invest in a filter that will additionally improve its quality.

Switch to reusable bottles

Well, we do not only reach for water while at home. On warmer days or during increased physical activity our bodily fluids should be regularly replenished. Why not grab a bottle of your "tap" before you hit the road? In stores you can easily find practical reusable bottles: convenient for transport and free of harmful compounds. This purchase will be the next step towards reducing the amount of garbage.

Give the packaging a second life

Not all plastic packaging must end up in a landfill. Harder and more wear resistant plastic packages deserve to be given a second life. An ice cream container will be perfect as a lunch box. You can keep spices in smaller containers. Sometimes a bit of imagination is all you need to find a new practical application for the packaging.

Give up plastic dishes and cutlery

Are you not fond of dishwashing? Few of us like it. However, dishwasher tablets or dishwashing liquid will not harm the environment as much as plastic plates and cutlery that decompose over hundreds of years. Have traditional tableware for a barbecue or birthday party. Although you may have more work cleaning up, you will definitely reduce the pollution.

Give up the habit of drinking through a straw

Do beverages sipped through a straw really taste better? It’s arguable. A fact that cannot be undermined is that inconspicuous straws used just for a short while will decompose for many years. The pleasure you experience while sipping drinks through them is probably not worth it.

Segregate garbage

The consumption of plastic can be reduced, but for the time being it is impossible to completely eliminate it from our lives. Environmental care does not end at the stage of purchasing decisions. It is also essential how we dispose of plastic waste. Careful garbage segregation increases the chance for bags and packaging to be recycled, and instead of being dumped in the forests, seas or oceans, they will reach factories that will make use of them.

Save garbage bags

It has been common practice for trash bins to be lined with sacks. This simple method helps maintain cleanliness, but it also increases the amount of rubbish (due to adding another piece of plastic). What should be done in this case? First of all, you can opt for ecological biodegradable bags. Secondly, make sure that such packages are used sensibly. Discard trash when the bag is full, not when the bottom is barely covered. Do not buy sacks that are too big.

These are just a few instances of minor activities that do not require too much heroism or enormous sacrifice, and Mother Nature will be thankful for that. So, get your act together now, before it is too late.