Easy Swaps to go Plastic Free

Did you know? Only one in five plastic bottles are recycled meaning the majority of them go to landfill. A simple way to avoid single-use plastic bottles from going to waste is to carry your own reusable water bottle for all things hot and cold! Most public spaces, workplaces, schools and walking paths have water refill stations where you can easily refill your water bottle as needed. Plus, you’re not risking coming into contact with the harmful BPAs or micro-plastics leaking out of plastic water bottles.

Have you noticed that most large supermarkets still offer small plastic produce bags? Maybe you’ve noticed that person who puts one or two pieces of fruit in a plastic bag that is definitely not necessary? (Please, don’t be that person). You can find cute and practical reusable produce bags that will easily replace this single-use plastic item. Our favourite produce bags are from local grassroots not-for-profit organisation Boomerang Bags, check them out and make the change.

Boomerang Bags

Did you know? Chemicals are added to cling wrap to make it “clingier” which makes it harder to recycle. Not to mention, these chemicals risk contaminating the food you are wrapping them in. An effective alternative is to use Candelilla wraps, which are vegan, 100% recyclable, reusable and come in beautiful designs! Plus, the natural antibacterial properties of candelilla wax will preserve your food for longer.

Millions of tons of plastic waste is generated by the takeaway food industry and not even 5% of it is reused or recycled. On the days when you do decide to treat yourself, try to take your own reusable container, straws & cutlery. A great idea is to create a travel kit to keep these on-hand in your car. Alternatively, you can support any of your local businesses which are minimising their use of plastic.

The Source Bulk Foods

If you open your pantry or fridge, you might be overwhelmed with the amount of food items that are packaged in plastic. While some of these items may seem impossible to find without any form of plastic packaging, a surprising selection of food can be purchased from your local bulk store! Simply bring your own jars/containers with you or use the provided paper bags to shop for your staples, without any plastic packaging. Some bulk stores even offer common household products such as shampoo, deodorant and dish liquid. For food items such as meat, you can bring your own container to your local butcher, who can provide fresh meat without the plastic wrapping.