Single-use plastics, such as disposable water bottles and plastic bags, are an environmental problem. When thrown out, they clog up oceans and river and are harmful to both plants and animals. It may be difficult to avoid single-use plastic altogether, but there are a handful of simple ways you can do your part to help cut down waste.
Instead of purchasing disposable water bottles, consider using a reusable water bottle. Not only will this practice avoid plastic waste, it will save you money in short order. If the tap water in your area doesn’t taste great, you could consider investing in a water filter pitcher for your home as well. There are multiple affordable (and stylish) options for both reusable water bottles and filters.
Plastic bags are used every day and are recyclable, but only 1% of them are actually ever recycled. To help minimize waste, make the switch to reusable shopping bags. Cloth or canvas bags can be washed, and even sturdier reusable plastic totes are better for the environment than single-use bags. Most residential curbside recycling programs do not accept plastic bags, but some grocery stores do. You can also check HERE for a local collection site.
These swaps just scratch the surface of how you can reduce plastic use. Reusable sandwich bags, glass food storage containers, and beeswax food wraps are just a few more examples of easy at-home switches.
When you must use single-use plastics, make it a habit to recycle. If you don’t have curbside recycling or a receptacle in your apartment facility, check your city and county websites to find a recycling facility near you.