Four ways to go plastic-free

And how to stick with it!

Plastic pollution is a significant issue negatively impacting our environment and marine life. This issue is crucial because thousands of sea turtles and marine animals are killed every year due to ingesting or becoming entangled in plastic products. However, there are simple ways you can make a positive environmental impact, even while running errands!

When people ask me how they can help end plastic litter, I suggest these four "simple swaps." Keep reading to see how your actions can be solutions to plastic pollution!

Tip 1: Skip the straw

According to the National Park Service and various environmental groups, Americans use approximately 500 million plastic straws daily! With that being said, one of my favorite ways to go plastic-free is not using plastic straws at restaurants. I also keep reusable straws in my purse and encourage my family members and friends to do the same. It is a simple way to make a significant environmental impact.

How to stick with it: Whether you are dining out or staying in, you can positively impact the environment by using reusable straws! Many options are available, including metal, silicone, and Hay straws. For example, these Ello straws are compact, and the case clips onto your keychain or purse!

Tip 2: Ditch the plastic bags

This next tip is so simple that you can protect the planet the next time you go to the grocery store! Another easy way you can go plastic-free is by not using plastic bags while running your errands. Along with lowering your carbon footprint, you also protect our marine life by keeping plastic bags out of our oceans and local waterways. This is crucial because marine animals, like sea turtles, ingest or become entangled in plastic bags, mistaking them for their food.

How to stick with it: You can put reusable bags in the back of your car to help you remember to take them with you. If you want to take this a step further, buy reusable bags in fun patterns [such as your college’s mascot], netted bags, or insulated reusable bags for cold groceries.

Tip 3: Consider using a bamboo toothbrush

You may not realize it, but plastic toothbrushes are harmful to our environment. One billion toothbrushes are thrown out every year in the United States. As an alternative to using plastic toothbrushes, bamboo toothbrushes are naturally biodegradable. Colgate’s bamboo toothbrush’s bristles are infused with charcoal, ensuring a deep clean and fresh breath. Clean teeth and less plastic in our landfills- win-win!

How to stick with it: Bamboo brushes are available at many popular retailers, including Target, Amazon, Grove Collaborative, and Walmart. Check out this article to learn about dentist-recommended bamboo toothbrushes if you consider making the switch.

Tip 4: Try Boxed Water

Lastly, Boxed Water is a fantastic alternative to plastic water bottles! Its packaging is 92% plant-based, the most renewable package compared to other sustainable beverage options. Boxed Water also sells flavored water and matcha variety packs if you aren’t in the mood for plain water.

How to stick with it: Outside of purchasing some waters to try (I highly recommend), Boxed Water has a Better Planet pledge where they will plant two trees for every social media post with the hashtag #BetterPlanet. This pledge demonstrates that every action, big or small, makes a significant environmental impact.

Overall, every simple action has a significant impact!