10 Simple Ways to Reduce Plastic Waste in Your Daily Life

Are you also done with all those plastic containers leaving your trash full after only 3 days? So it's time for a change! Single use plastic is a big 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, will you hold my reusable tassie? 


Get rid of the plastic bags! One of the easiest ways to reduce plastic waste is to bring your own reusable bag while 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 to avoid disposable bottles. Plastic waste ending up in our oceans and landfills? We hardly know her! Check out this blog from Ecotoday for a super handy top 10 sustainable drinking bottle tips.

3. Plastic straws? Don't think so(s)! 


Plastic straws and other single use plastic items are little big culprits when it comes to disposable plastic. We totally agree that paper straws are soggy and irritating 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 have a big impact.

4. Let's get naked! Jacket-free fruits and vegetables

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

5. Opt for plastic-free toiletries


Extend your efforts to reduce plastic 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 the more sustainable options that are plastic-free and made from eco-friendly materials such as bamboo or recycled paper. How to judge if a product is sustainable? Check out our blog on sustainability certifications for more info!

6. Coffee-to-go without waste 


Purchase your own to-go coffee cup! As coffee lovers, this is one of our top favorite tips. It may be a catch-all, but it's such an easy one to apply in your daily life. Invest in a reusable coffee or travel mug. Extra win: many coffee shops even offer discounts if you bring your own cup.

7. Is your stomach rumbling? Your lunch in a tumbler(s)! 


Bringing your own lunch not only saves money, but also helps reduce plastic waste. It may give you flashbacks to recess at school, but use reusable containers and wrap sandwiches in beeswax cloths instead of relying on disposable plastic bags and cling film.

8. He who keeps, he who has some


Don't throw your food away! Save your leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day by using silicone cling wrap lids! These handy flexible lids can be reused on any bowl or container you already have. 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 such as bamboo, choose 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 creating awareness and inspiring others to take action, we can create a chain reaction and have a bigger impact on reducing plastic waste.

Small steps for a big change

By making these simple changes in 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!