Plastic is taking over our planet, and it is happening breakneck pace. Almost half of the plastic ever manufactured has been made in the past 15 years. 8 billion pounds of plastic finds its way to the ocean each year. At our current rate of plastic production, consumption, and disposal, the oceans will contain more plastic then fish by 2050!
So, what can we do to stop this plastic consumption? I believe that action, even by a few people can make a difference. I decided to take the Plastic Free July Challenge again this year. This month, I will join tens of thousands of people around the world in an attempt to forgo plastic. I did the Challenge last year for the first time and it really made me look at how much plastic that I (and my family) use each day.
Simple ways to remove plastic from daily life:
· Bring your travel mug to the coffee shop if you’re getting a cup to go
· Carry a reusable water bottle everywhere
· Give up plastic bags - you can try lining your trashcan with newspaper as shown in the Treading My Own Path blog.
· Avoid plastic packaging – bring your own containers to the deli counter at the grocery store
· Create your own home cleaning products using glass jars
· Create your own reusable travel kits
Plastic epitomizes our consumer, throw-away culture. It represents the kind of thinking (and action) that has led to our current environmental crisis. We’re addicted to convenience, much of which plastic makes possible. If everyone moderates their consumption, we will move toward sustainability.
Take the plastic free challenge with me this month and send us your ideas about how to use less plastic!