"I've been using reusable shopping bags for years, but I was still taking home small plastic produce bags and using straws when I order a fountain drink and getting stuck with plastic flatware when attending events. These would go straight into my trash can and out to the landfill - what a waste!" says Katrina, a SCOCO board member.
Katrina made a personal resolution for 2016 to reduce disposable plastic use: "I found some great washable and reusable alternatives that I could easily carry in my purse so I can avoid using these kinds of plastic items in the first place."
Many movements and organizations are educating people about their plastic use, such as 5Gyers, My Plastic Free Life, The Story of Stuff, and Zero Waste Home. as well as the consequences of disposable plastics (energy and resource usage, as well as waste and litter consequences).
You can take action too! Here are some alternatives you can try:
- Instead of plastic straws, try reusable stainless steel or glass straws (or go straw-less! If you don't use straws at home, you probably don't need them when you're eating out).
- Instead of plastic produce bags, use washable mesh ones instead.
- Instead of to-go boxes or ziploc bags to carry snacks or leftovers, bring your own portable containers.
- Instead of disposable forks and spoons, keep a handy camping spork in your backpack, purse, office or car.
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