Plastic is probably one of the most harmful materials we can use. It does not biodegrade naturally, or even if it does – it can take up to 1000 years to do so! So if you consider yourself to be an eco-friendly family, you will certainly find these six tips very useful. All of them will help you at least reduce the plastic at home, and be one step closer to a healthier, greener lifestyle. AND, it will have a beneficial impact on the environment.
1. Switch to reusable water bottles
22 Billion plastic water bottles end up in landfills every year!
During the warm season, experts recommend drinking around 2 liters of water every day — the fact is – we need to drink pure water, and we need to drink a lot of it.
Some of us have clean tap water (but we highly recommend considering a good filter system). Instead of buying water in plastic bottles, use reusable stainless steel or glass bottles instead. This will not only reduce the amount of garbage but also save you a significant deal of money too! Save money, stay hydrated and help the environment — can’t lose, right?
2. Remember your reusable shopping bags!
When traveling or just simply going to a store for casual grocery shopping do not forget to bring your reusable shopping bag. Once you develop the habit, which can take time for some of us.
Admit it, there are some very cool designs too. Ultimately it means less plastic in landfills, up in trees and worst of all in our oceans. So, skip those ugly plastic bags and let your style fly with your beautiful reusable shopping bags instead.
3. Buy local food and groceries with less plastic packaging
Instead of buying that cucumber wrapped in plastic and the many items layered in plastic packaging in supermarkets, try choosing more locally produced food instead. It not only supports the local farmers and producers, but also gives us a chance to enjoy more organic, fresh and seasonal food too!
4. Invest in naturally made toys
Most kids’ toys are made with a variety of different plastics, like RC cars, Nerf guns and action figures. More people are choosing toys made with natural products like wood and natural textiles — for the safety of their children as well as the environmental impact.
How about all those cheap plastic toys that are almost disposable. Like the beach toys that often get tossed away at the end of the summer or vacation season. Please try to find higher-quality toys that may cost a couple of extra dollars, but will not get tossed into the landfill as quickly (and will likely be healthier for your child as well).
One great way to save on better quality toys is online coupons, and especially these JCPenney ones! Along with these discount codes from Chameleonjohn, you won’t feel bad of investing a bit more for great quality toys your kids will love for longer.
5. Use reusable food containers
Reusable food containers are the perfect solution for families who love to travel. Instead of packing your sandwiches and other snacks in plastic bags, neatly place them in individual food containers. This way each member of the family will have his personal lunch/meal bag or box, and can put their own favorite yummy food and snacks. Ditch all those plastic baggies!
6. Bring your own reusable travel mug to the coffee shop
And finally, for all you coffee junkies, please consider bringing your own reusable mug to the coffee shop. You’ll be saving the landfills from literally tons of useless plastic. Think about it!
What are your tricks reducing plastic use in your world?
This post is sponsored by Chameleonjohn
