I know what you may be thinking, it is a little late in the month for this. However, I only just became aware of this recently. I think it's important to discuss the environmental implications of using plastic and why the concept of this month is so important and should be applied throughout the year.
Single use plastic items are everywhere these days. The cost of producing plastic is cheap and it is very easy to alter, making it a good option for producers. However, it has a high environmental cost. It takes three times the amount of water contained within the bottle to produce the plastic, 5 oz of CO2, and 25% of the bottle in gasoline to manufacture, transport, and dispose of the plastic bottle. In 2018, only 29% of plastic bottles purchased by consumers was recycled. Plastic also has a low recyclability rate and can only be recycled 2 or 3 times before the quality is so low that it can't be recycled again. Whereas glass can be melted and reused an infinite number of times.
The good news is that there is an easy solution to the problem. Ditch single use plastic containers. There are many other options available to consumers.
Straws: You can purchase reusable metal straws and use those rather than a single use disposable one.
Plastic bags: Reusable cloth shopping bags save a significant amount of plastic from being created and ending up in landfills.
Bottles and coffee cups: Bring your own refillable water bottles and coffee cups when you leave your home. This not only significantly cuts down on the amount of plastic you are using, it also can save you money. Many stores offer a discount for refilling your own mug, you can also bring your own beverage and save even more.
Plastic wrap: There are reusable options available rather than single use plastic wrap. Beeswax wrap is a great alternative that has a near infinite lifespan as long as you follow the care instructions.
Soap/Lotion/Shampoo: Lotion bars, shampoo bars, and soap bars are zero-waste options for the products you use ever day. Bonus, you aren't exposed to the harsh chemicals contained in the products you normally purchase. (Find a variety of products here:https://www.etsy.com/shop/SirisEssentials).
Electronics: Electronic waste is a major issue, and electronics contain a lot of precious metals to function which are expensive and harmful to the environment to mine. Recycling your electronics reduces carbon footprint of items which normally end up in the trash. Best Buy and other major electronics vendors offer electronic recycling in store, most at no cost.
Air fresheners: Rather than using electric air fresheners which contain a lot of plastic, burn candles or incense instead.
Microbeads: Microbeads are made from plastic and contain chemicals which are carcinogenic. They are commonly used in body washes and facial soaps. Avoid these products because they are harmful to both your health and the planet.
Sandwich bags: Single use zip lock bags are unnecessary and easily replaced. There are reusable bags which can be washed and used repeatedly.
Plastic silverware: Replace your single-use plastic silverware. There are convenient sets sold on amazon for work or transportation purposes. The sets contain metal silverware rather than disposable single use silverware.
These easy changes can be made and applied to your life year round, rather than just during July. Like many other environmentally friendly measures you can take in your life, many of these options can save you money.
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