Is a Plastic-free Existence Possible?
April 1, 2011 – 1:12 pm by MarinaHanes
Of course, it’s possible to live a plastic-free life – you just have to be willing to make the necessary changes. Plasticware is convenient and it has probably taken over at least one or more of your cabinets. Every year there are new designs that lock together and store better, but at the end of the day, do you really want to be contributing to the groundwater and contamination that plastics are causing?
You’re first task in living a plastic-free lifestyle is to vow never to buy any plastic again. While you will most likely fail, at least you’re making a commitment to think about the bigger picture when it comes to your purchases. Living without plastics isn’t easy when they’re available in every store you go. You have to learn to resist and how to live efficiently without them.
Next, you need to provide yourself with eco-friendly alternatives. Use clean bandanas or purchase reusable fabric bags for carrying leftovers from lunch like sandwiches and fruits. For liquids, you will need either a stainless steel thermos or glass bowls. You might already own these items – maybe you found them behind your pile of plastic containers. If not, you can always pick these items up at garage sales instead of buying new.
Once you get into the habit of using non-plastic storage containers, you will need to make a habit of properly recycling any plastic you do come across. For instance, any plastic grocery bags can sometimes be recycled at chain grocery stores. Food containers from milk and other foods can usually go into your home recycling bin.
Achieving a plastic-free life is possible, but it’s going to take some action on your part. After living with plastic in a plastic overloaded society, it’s challenging to uphold a new law in your home. However, knowing that the world will be less polluted can be a driving force.
One Response to “Is a Plastic-free Existence Possible?”
After reading the article in Sunset magazine a month or so ago, about the family that has NO trash, the idea of cutting way back on plastic seems more doable. We just have to put our minds to it. This family would take glass containers to the markets to fill with food from the bulk bins. That’s one example. Pretty dedicated!
By Sue Langley on Apr 3, 2011