8 Ways to Stop Using Plastic

By now, you’re probably well aware of all the headlines about the catastrophic effects of plastic pollution, so we won’t labour that here. Instead, we’re going to be looking at 8 simple ways you can stop using plastic in your day-to-day life.

1. No more plastic straws!
   

   Everyone knows just how damaging and unnecessary single-use plastic can be – especially for our oceans – so ditch the plastic straws and get yourself a metal one. If you really want to go the extra mile, you can ask your local pubs and restaurants to only serve plastic straws upon request.

2. Buy a reusable bottle
   

   There’s no need to buy plastic bottles of water from supermarkets. Why not buy a reusable bottle instead? You can even download Refill – an app which shows you where your nearest refill station is!

3. While you’re at it, buy a reusable coffee cup
   

   A lot of coffee outlets will actually charge you a little less if you bring a reusable coffee cup, so everybody wins.

4. Packed lunches, not meal deals
   

   You’ve probably been psyching yourself up to start doing this for a while now, so let this be the last little boost you needed.

   Perfectly recyclable pasta pots and sandwich boxes often end up in the bin if we’re racing through the centre of town, so do the planet (and your wallet) a favour and start making packed lunches. This means that you can bring your own metal cutlery, too.

5. Buy loose veg
   

   When you are choosing between buying loose or packed veg, always go for loose. Not only are you forgoing unnecessary plastic, you’re also buying just what you need. Less plastic, less waste. Simple.

6. Don’t be caught without a shopping bag

   We’re all guilty of making far too many trips to the supermarket, so make sure you always keep a sturdy shopping bag folded up in your car or rucksack. This way, when you inevitably pop in on the way home, you’re prepared.

7. Find refill stations for detergents
   

   Big brands are starting to take this refill concept seriously; you should, too. When your anti-bacterial spray or washing up liquid runs out, look for refill pouches or stations – don’t just grab a new bottle!

8. Support companies that are committed to sustainable packaging
   

   One of the most important things that you can do to help reduce plastic pollution: support companies that package their goods responsibly, and avoid those that don’t. These days, companies succeed by aligning themselves ethically with their target market. This a consumer-driven trend with a positive impact on the environment, so we should keep it alive. Like that new cafe over the road which has eliminated single-use plastic? Make it your new spot.

Here at Brown Recycling, we’re committed to zero-to-waste landfill, and are dedicated to recycling 100% of the waste we collect. With over 80 years’ experience, you can count on our family-run business to take care of any amount of waste – on both a domestic and commercial level. For easy skip hire and waste management services across Staffordshire and beyond, get in touch today.