We’ve talked a lot about the problems that plastics can cause, but what about the problem that is already occurring? Plastics that have been disposed of continue to be an issue that everyone should be aware of and worried about! Industrial ecologist Roland Geyer has had this issue on his mind since he was seven years old, and through years of research, he’s discovered the sobering fact that humans have created 8.3 billion metric tons of plastic since the 1950s. Take a look at this illustrated infographic to see how this is, what it means, and what we should do!
You can learn more about plastics in our breakdown here.
Illustration: Susie Cagle/The Guardian
Let us hear from you, Movement members. What are your solutions to reducing plastics in your home? Share your suggestions and tips in the comments below!Resources:
Would love to see Norwex offer their consumable products in more sustainable refill packaging, such as cardboard or glass
They quite a bit that way, plus they are only using ocean bound plastic now! Check out the sea bin project.
This makes me think about what I buy and how necessary it is. I wonder why we don’t boycott plastics. This appears to be a horrible problem.
I, you, we can all start now. Don’t buy or use one-time use plastic bottles. Purchase a water filter, if needed, and use your own reusable bottle. Start using bars of soap vs. liquid soap provided in a plastic bottle or even a plastic bag (think “Method”). I’m starting to see shampoo bars (like bar soap). A local store near me now provides shampoo and body wash to put into your own reusable bottle. Use your own reusable bags when shopping. There’s lots we can do in ways like these — and in this way, we ARE boycotting plastics. We don’t need a formal boycott, instead boycott with you purchasing power.
Unfortunately because of covid most stores will not allow you to use your own bags. And restaurants have gone to pre-wrapped plastic utensils. The homeless shelter I volunteer at is now using everything disposable. We are not even allowed to wash any dishes because of covid. This is very frustrating to me.
I agree!c I even started buying my organic ketchup in glass vs plastic when tho it’s more expensive. The price we pay to do right.
Totally agree…
obviously western countries don’t think beyond our personal needs and borders. Quick, easy, and out of sight!
So true and so scary! One of my favorites is bringing my glass dish with me when I go out to eat. You never have to wait for the waiter to bring you a to-go container and it’s one less plastic, styrofoam, who-knows-what, in the trash or recycling bins.
I like the Norwex silicone ones, they collapse for easy carrying! Take a peak at those.
I keep a refillable water bottle with me, and we have water bottle filling stations at work. I also keep glass bottles filled in the fridge for emergency needs.
I keep a plate, soup bowl, and utensils in my office at work. When we have pot lucks I’m always prepared. I also think the food tastes better from a real dish. Our friends are never surprise when we show up at picnics and parties with our own drinking glasses too. Again, beverages are better from glasses and not plastic cups.
I have been using a water filter in my home and using reusable water bottles instead of plastic bottles. This is crazy information that I don’t think people really realize the impact.
We need to slow the flow of plastic at its source, we’ve seen a lot of positive action, but the truth is that we all need to do more!
by using norwex product
I am paying a lot more attention to what I buy or use or throw away.
Each of us need to do our part, no matter how small we think they are. We need to take charge of our own household and start there. Recycle may not be an option anymore.. we need to do more reuse,reduce and refuse. Stop using plastics wherever possible. Change starts with me! Yay!!
Thanks Zuraini! We appreciate you comment and all the other positive ways people have shared how they’re making choices to reduce, reuse and refuse plastic. Together we can make a big difference!