10 Ways to Reduce Plastic Waste

Are you also fed up with all that plastic packaging filling up your trash bin after 3 days? Time for a change! Single-use plastic is a major environmental problem, but the good news is that small changes can make a big difference. In this blog you will find 10 simple ways to reduce plastic waste.

1. Annie, can you hold my reusable bag for a moment?

Ditch those plastic bags! One of the easiest ways to reduce plastic waste is to bring your own reusable bag when you go shopping. Keep a few collapsible bags in your car or purse so you’re always ready to say no to plastic bags.

2. Water(bottle)?! Are you trying to poison me or something?

Stay hydrated without plastic and invest in a good refillable water bottle and avoid disposable bottles. Plastic waste that ends up in our oceans and landfills? We hardly know her! Check this blog from Ecotoday for a super handy top 10 sustainable drinking bottles.

3. Plastic straws? I don't think so!

Plastic straws and other single-use plastic items are minor culprits when it comes to disposable plastic. We totally agree that paper straws get soggy and annoying after three uses, so just skip the straw altogether or opt for alternatives like stainless steel or bamboo straws. It’s a small change that can make a big impact.

4. Let's get naked! Fruit and vegetables without a jacket

Buy your fruit and vegetables without a bag. Put your products in your shopping cart without their jackets, or bring a crate with you that you can put all your fruit and vegetables in at once. Visit the greengrocer for a change, or go to the market if there is one near you. This way you avoid unnecessary plastic packaging and reduce waste. And yes: plastic extends the shelf life of your fruit and vegetables, but did you know that there are also alternatives to keep your fresh products fresh for a long time? For example, put your avocado in a bowl of water in the refrigerator, this way you can keep it fresh for a few days longer. Also check this handy “Where do I store fruit and vegetables?” overview from the nutrition center to find out where you can store each fresh product the longest.

5. Choose plastic-free toiletries

Extend your plastic reduction efforts to the bathroom by switching to plastic-free toiletries. Look for toothbrushes with bamboo handles, shampoo and conditioner bars, and refillable soap dispensers. And when it comes to toilet paper, you know where to find us ;). Whenever possible, opt for more sustainable options that are plastic-free and made from eco-friendly materials like bamboo or recycled paper. How do you judge whether a product is sustainable? Check out our blog on sustainability certifications for more info!

6. Zero waste coffee-to-go

Get your own to-go coffee mug! As coffee lovers, this is one of our favorite tips. It may seem obvious, but it’s so easy to implement into your daily life. Invest in a reusable coffee or travel mug. Bonus: many coffee shops even offer discounts if you bring your own mug.

7. Your stomach rumbling? Your lunch in a drum(t)!

Packing your own lunch not only saves money, it also helps reduce plastic waste. It may give you flashbacks to school break times, but use reusable containers and wrap sandwiches in beeswax wraps instead of relying on single-use plastic bags and cling film.

8. He who saves has something

Don't throw your food away! Save your leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day with the help of silicone lids! These handy flexible lids can be reused on any bowl or container you already have. This way you save money and waste!

9. Look for plastic-free alternatives: Be creative

Explore the market for plastic-free alternatives in your daily life. Replace plastic toothbrushes with ones made from sustainable materials like bamboo, opt for glass or metal water filters instead of plastic ones, and switch to wooden or metal cutlery instead of plastic.

10. Preach it: share your knowledge and inspire others

Share your journey to reduce plastic waste with friends, family and colleagues. By raising awareness and inspiring others to take action, we can create a chain reaction and have a greater impact on reducing plastic waste.

Small steps for a big change

By making these simple changes to your daily life, you can significantly reduce plastic waste and contribute to a cleaner, greener planet. From bringing your own bag to choosing plastic-free toilet paper and sustainable options, every action counts. Let’s work together to create a plastic-free future for ourselves and future generations. Together, we can make a difference!