#WorldEnvironmentDay: 5 small ways you can go plastic-free
That plastic is killing our planet and we need to act before it's not too late, is something everyone knows. This World Environment Day, which revolves around the idea of plastic-free living, here are five small and easy lifestyle changes that will make a better tomorrow. Rather than wait for authorities to act, and pass the buck, it's time to do your bit.
The plastic toothbrushes you have been using since ages don't decompose completely, so it's best to switch to bamboo ones. The bristles of these are made of nylon or charcoal-infused- both of which are decomposed once you throw them away. Apart from helping the environment, bamboo toothbrushes are also easy on teeth and gums due to soft bristles.
How will cosmetics reduce plastic use, you ask? Well, you don't know but small beads of plastic are put in your face wash and shampoos for exfoliation. To do your bit, you can make your own face wash, like our grandmothers always advocated. Switch to gram-flour, curd, for skin, and amla, aloe vera gel for hair; and welcome a new way of lifestyle.
Plastic cutlery has taken over our kitchens but it's time to bid them goodbye. If you feel melamine cutlery is the only alternative, think again. You can switch to edible cutlery, that is made of millets having various nutrients, and has a shelf life of three years. You can also make them at home, but would need experts' opinion on the same.
The shoes you wear are made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which is similar to wearing plastic (yeah, this explains the sweating). A better alternative for this is cloth shoes. They are made up of fabric, which allows your feet to breathe, and are also environment-friendly. You can also switch to leather footwear to reduce plastic use in life.
Sipping drinks through plastic straws may have become the new normal, but its hazardous to the environment (obviously). You can start by avoiding straws at all possible places, and at your home you may replace them with glass straws. Unlike the plastic ones, they are reusable too. In conclusion, if you are serious about saving the earth just show you care.
