On one of our previous blogs, we discussed the topic of our carbon footprint. And although we believe our amazing LiveTriber’s are doing what they can to help the environment, we are still struggling with a huge waste problem in our country! Often, we think helping the environment means dropping everything and living a completely waste free and minimalistic lifestyle and although that may be ideal, it is not realistic for most of our population. So on today’s blog, we touch on waste facts and share 4 easy ways to reduce waste today.
Plastic waste is one of the biggest problems in our world today. It not only effects our physical environment but many birds and marine life are being effected by plastic waste everyday. Before we into some tips here are some astonishing plastic waste facts:
- A plastic water bottle will last for more than 450 years if left on the beach (sas.org.uk)
- Every year, more than 100,000 marine mammals and 1 millions seabirds die from ingestion or entanglement in plastic litter. (theoceancleanup.com)
- A plastic bag has a life expectancy of up to 10000 years (plasticoceans.net)
Use reusable straws
We may not realise it, but this small item is one of the biggest producers of plastic waste. Plastic straws are something we use in our day to day lives; however, it brings a major negative impact to our environment. So, what can you do to stop it? Firstly, refuse a straw when offered, sometimes drinking from a cup is doable. However, we know this isn’t ideal for on the go, so if you need to sip try using reusable metal straws, these are easy to slip in your bag and bring it around whenever you need it.
BYOB
Our next tip is BRING YOUR OWN BAG! Whether to the grocery store or the shops, get into the habit of bringing your own reusable bag. Even when shopping you can find so many cute canvas bags to take on the go. This will help reduce plastic waste from plastic bags and help save the environment!
Find a new way to drink
Did you know that most coffee cups are non-recyclable, although we think they’re made of paper, the plastic lining that is used to protect your hands from getting burnt is unfortunately non-recyclable, making the whole cup a plastic waste! Start bringing your own cup from home, some coffee shops even offer discounts for those who BYOC! This goes the same for plastic water bottles and containers.
Shop in bulk
For many households, most of the plastic waste comes from our very own kitchen. We can often buy products for convenience rather than thinking how it will impact our environment. But when possible, try to buy in bulk to reduce waste from packaging and pick paper packages rather than ones made from plastic.
LiveTriber’s, what do you do in your day to day life to help reduce waste?
