7 Small Steps To Cut Down Your Plastic Consumption.

As we advance as a society and become increasingly more aware of our impact on the environment, we have discovered some troubling facts. Plastic-based products, while very convenient and easy to produce, are a nightmare on ecosystems and the overall environment. Every step of the process that is used to manufacture and produce plastics negatively impacts the surrounding environment of wherever production is being conducted. To reduce your part in this, follow these 7 small steps to reduce your overall plastic consumption.

Reusable Bottles

Instead of buying a pack of plastic water bottles at the store when you’re out shopping, you should simply spring for a reusable bottle. There are reusable bottles that will maintain the temperature of the liquid that it currently holds, so you can use it for more than just water, but things like coffee too. Plastic water bottles are one of the most common forms of plastic waste, reducing your consumption of plastic water bottles will not only reduce your carbon footprint, but save you some money as well.

Bring Your Own Bag

When you go shopping, you may not even think about how many plastic grocery bags you actually use in just one trip. To cut down on plastic bag usage or eliminate it entirely, you should purchase a reusable tote bag. They come in tons of different shapes and sizes and some services offer personalized cotton totes that you can put your own designs and graphics on.

Cardboard Over Plastic

The plastic material is incredibly difficult to recycle and a very small percentage of it actually undergoes the recycling process. Cardboard, however, is much easier to recycle and is far more biodegradable than plastic, this way if cardboard is thrown away, it doesn’t stick around for long.

Cut Out Straws

If you really think about it, the amount of plastic waste that is generated from standard drinking straws, even from just one individual, is far too high. Whether you’re at home, in a restaurant or bar, or in your car, avoid using plastic straws.

Shave Down Plastic Usage

Disposable razors are a major culprit of contributing to overall plastic waste on earth. Instead of buying a pack of new disposable razors every so often, invest in a reusable razor so that you’re not throwing out plastic products frivolously. Not to mention, reusable razors usually offer a better shave.

Diapers

Diapers are among the most harmful and difficult to recycle products on the market. Diapers take centuries to biodegrade. You don’t have to stop buying diapers, however. You should look into purchasing cloth diapers for your baby instead.

Kitchen Culprits

Kitchens are home to a never ending supply of plastics. From Tupperware to plastic wrap, to sandwich baggies, there is a lot of plastic waste that goes into food storage. Cut back on these products by using glass or ceramic containers instead of a plastic alternative.

Being environmentally conscious is easier than it seems, you just need to know where to start.