Plastic. It's everywhere: in our grocery bags, holding our lunches, and even clinging to our vegetables. While plastic offers undeniable convenience, its environmental impact is a growing concern. From overflowing landfills to microplastics polluting our oceans, plastic pollution poses a significant threat to our planet.
The good news? You can make a difference! Plastic-Free July, a global movement championed by the Plastic Free July Foundation, is a fantastic opportunity to re-evaluate your plastic footprint and embrace better-for-the-planet alternatives. Here,we'll delve into simple yet impactful swaps you can make for a plastic-free July – and beyond!
Kitchen Conquerors: Banish plastic from your kitchen
The kitchen is a battleground for plastic. From cling wrap to food storage containers, plastic seems to dominate our food prep routines. Fortunately, there are some great alternatives waiting to be discovered:
- Reusable Food Wraps: Ditch the cling wrap and opt for reusable beeswax wraps or silicone covers. These versatile wraps create a secure seal over bowls, containers, and even cut fruits and vegetables. They're washable and reusable, significantly reducing plastic waste.
- Glass or Stainless Steel Food Storage: Plastic containers may be convenient, but glass or stainless steel options offer a more sustainable alternative. They're non-porous, preventing odors and stains, and they can be used safely in the microwave and dishwasher.
- Produce Bags: Say no to flimsy plastic produce bags - instead invest in reusable mesh produce bags. These lightweight bags are easy to wash and come in various sizes, making them perfect for fruit and vegetables.
- Reusable Water Bottles: Plastic water bottles are a major source of plastic waste. Invest in a stylish, reusable water bottle that you can carry with you everywhere.
- Refillable and concentrated cleaning products - why not switch to our Concentrated Multipurpose Cleaner - simply add the 30 ml concentrated to an existing cleaning bottle and top up with water or try switching to our refillable Concentrated Washing Up Liquid
Save 23% when you buy our fantastic
Kitchen Starter Bundle which contains Concentrated Cleaners, Concentrated Washing Up Liquid and compostable cleaning sponges.
Bathroom Bliss: Ditch the plastic for a more sustainable self-care routine
The bathroom isn't immune to plastic's grasp. But with a few swaps, you can create a haven of plastic free self-care:
- Solid Shampoo and Conditioner Bars: Ditch the plastic bottles and embrace solid shampoo and conditioner bars like our Coconut Shampoo & Conditioner Bar. These concentrated bars offer long-lasting lathers and ours is packed recyclable cardboard packaging making it plastic free.
- Natural Loofahs or Reusable Bath Poufs: Exfoliate naturally with a loofah or reusable bath pouf made from recycled materials. These alternatives eliminate the need for disposable plastic shower puffs.
- Bamboo Toothbrushes: Make the switch from conventional plastic toothbrushes to bamboo toothbrushes. Bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource, and these brushes can be composted at the end of their lifespan.
- Reusable Makeup Remover Pads: Ditch the disposable makeup wipes! Invest in a set of washable and reusable makeup remover pads. These gentle pads are effective and significantly reduce waste.
Laundry lovables - better-for-the-planet products for clothes washing
- Laundry Sheets - Make the simple switch to Laundry Detergent Sheets and save up to 20 single-use plastic liquid detergent bottles each year. (Based on putting a wash on every day)
- Choose products that come in stainless steel containers, like our highly effective plant-based Stain Remover, have recyclable packaging or are refillable.
Plastic's reach extends beyond the kitchen and bathroom. Here are ways to create a plastic-free lifestyle throughout your day:
- Reusable Shopping Bags: Always have reusable shopping bags on hand. Opt for sturdy canvas or mesh bags that can hold your groceries and other purchases.
- Coffee on the Go: Ditch the single-use coffee cups. Invest in a travel mug or thermos to keep your coffee hot or cold. Many cafes offer discounts to customers who bring their own mugs.
- Straws - Say No! Plastic straws are luckily now banned but were a significant source of plastic pollution. Opt for reusable stainless steel or glass or bamboo straws, or simply go straw-free when enjoying beverages.
- Say No to Plastic Utensils: Refuse plastic cutlery when you're out and about. (It's now a banned item to manufacture anyway.) Carry a lightweight set of reusable stainless steel utensils in your bag for unexpected picnics or takeout meals.
- Food Wraps and Containers on the Go: Pack your lunch in reusable containers made from glass, stainless steel,or bamboo. Wrap sandwiches in beeswax wraps or other reusable food wraps.
The Power of Small Changes: Why Plastic-Free July Matters
Plastic Free July is more than just a month long challenge. It's a wake-up call to become more mindful of our plastic consumption and its impact. Even small changes can create a significant collective impact.
The benefits of going plastic-free extend beyond environmental protection. You might be surprised to discover:
- Cost Savings: Reusable alternatives, while having an initial investment, often pay for themselves over time as you avoid buying disposable plastic products.
- Improved Health: Some plastic products can contain harmful chemicals. Choosing plastic-free alternatives can be a healthier option.
- Empowerment: By making eco-conscious choices, you empower yourself to be part of the solution to plastic pollution.
Let's all make small swaps for a big impact this Plastic Free July!
We'd really love to know what swaps you're making for #plasticfreejuly so please let us know via social by tagging us @simplelivingeco
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Use the code PFJ24 to get 20% off our plastic saving products when you spend over £15. Code cannot be used against bundles or any discounted products. Expires July 14th 11.59pm.
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Also, towards the end of July, look out for our joint competition on Instagram with sustainable kids clothing brand Ducky Zebra where you have the chance to win
£60 of plastic free goodies!