Earth Day: Practical hacks to reduce daily use of plastics
What's the story
Single-use plastic products have become an indispensable part of our daily lives, but they are a major threat to the environment. However, there are many practical hacks that we can adopt to reduce the use of plastic and protect the planet. As we celebrate Earth Day today, let us explore some simple yet effective ways to cut down on plastic consumption.
Health issues
Microplastics can have harmful effects on our health
Plastic products not only hurt the environment but also our health. Studies have found that exposure to microplastics, which are minuscule plastic particles, can cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA damage, leading to various health problems. In fact, chronic inflammation can open the door to even more serious health issues. Thus, reducing the use of plastic products becomes all the more important.
Shopping
Shopping? Bring a cloth bag along
Bringing your own cloth bag when you go shopping can help the planet a lot. We all go to the supermarket at least once a week, so it is important to make good choices. If we switch to reusable bags, we can cut down on waste and help marine life. This simple act can make a big difference.
Bulk buying
To reduce waste, purchase food in bulk
Supermarkets are overflowing with disposable containers like plastic bags and bottles, which is highly toxic for our planet. Luckily, there's an easy solution - buy food in bulk! Lots of places now offer this option, so you can get just the amount you need without any extra packaging. It's a great way to reduce waste and help the environment.
Cosmetics
Say no to cosmetics with micro-plastics
Did you know that some cosmetics contain tiny plastic particles that harm the environment? The good news is that we can help by choosing plastic-free options. There are lots of alternatives available now, like brushes made of wood and lipsticks that don't have microplastics. By choosing natural and sustainable products you can do your part in saving the environment.
Single-use
Ditch single-use plastic straws
Single-use plastics, such as drinking straws, are wreaking havoc on our planet. You might think, do biodegradable straws really make a difference? Well, they may seem small, but plastic straws take centuries to decompose and continue to harm marine life. Switch to reusable straws made of bamboo or steel, and biodegradable cutlery to take a small yet giant leap in protecting the planet.
Toothbrush
Switch to bamboo toothbrush
Did you know that billions of plastic toothbrushes end up in landfills each year, which takes hundreds of years to decompose? The solution - switch to bamboo toothbrushes. They are made from a natural and biodegradable material that breaks down in just six months. Make sure to detach the nylon bristles from your bamboo toothbrush before disposing to ensure recyclability.