Have you decided to start a plastic-free life, but do not know where to start? With different types of zero waste movements and green living campaigns today, changing our lifestyle can seem quite daunting. It’s good that you are ready to take the steps for a better world.
If you are looking at these massive life-changing steps, there is no need to worry! Plastic-free life does not have to be overwhelming, and small changes are the key to success. So, here are some tips to guide you along the way!
Avoid Single Use Plastic
One of the easiest changes you can make is avoiding single-use plastic. Did you know that it takes a thousand years for plastic to be completely decomposed in landfill? Even more so, that around 8 million metric tons of them will end up in the ocean?
Whether you’re shopping or ordering food to-go, stay away from single-use plastic. This includes plastic straws, bags, bottles and cups. Most of the times, these uses of plastic aren’t even necessary. Do not throw away anything you already have. There are creative ways to reuse and repurpose them!
Change the Way You Grocery Shop
The next step is to change the way you shop for groceries. Adopt a new mindset that steers clear from plastic packaging. This will help you end up with much less waste at home. We also recommend bulk buying pantry goods, such as rice, grains, nuts and cereals.
The mot important thing to remember is to bring your own reusable bags. We cannot stress this enough! Reusable bags, containers and glass jars will be your best friend when shopping for essentials.
Choose Bathroom Products Wisely
Outside the kitchen and pantry, the next largest source of waste is probably from your bathroom. Yes, this includes personal hygiene, make-up, and skincare products. Not to mention that most of these things are teeming with harmful chemicals that are not conducive for your health.
What should you buy instead? Try natural soap bars that come in bio-degradable packaging. Shampoo-conditioner bars are great too. For your moisturizer, we recommend using natural ointments such as coconut oil or other organic products.
You can also find items like shaving tools and toothbrush made from non-plastic material. However, it’s more important to focus on the list above before this one. Remember to take it one step at a time, so it will not overwhelm you.
It Takes Time
Just like trying to change any other habit, adopting a plastic-free life takes time. You shouldn’t expect that everything will change drastically overnight, as lifelong changes can only last when you do it consistently. Things will also be easier the more you practice.
With that said, know that anyone can go plastic-free. It doesn’t matter if you work a 9-5, have little kids or feel like you are too late in the game. Change takes time and so will this. We also want to say that a plastic-free life does not require perfection, just the right attitude and willingness to learn. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, because even the best of us do!
Take into account how much time to have to spend learning new habits, and set yourself realistic goals. If your expectations exceed what’s likely or practical for you to achieve, you’ll end up disappointed and disheartened.
At the end of the day, no one can force you to change how you live. The desire to leave a positive impact has to come from yourself. Finally, remember that no one person is too insignificant to make a change. Start now!