How can you 'un-plastic?'
Plastics have become a staple in our way of life, but their inability to break down, or biodegrade, has a devastating impact on our oceans. We all like to think we are being responsible with our plastic consumption, but chances are good that there are still several ways you can improve how much plastic we use in our lives. Here are some areas in which we can all make simple substitutions. And you may have other ideas that you can help. At the bottom of the page, you can pledge to "un-plastic" your life in honor of World Oceans Day!
BRING YOUR OWN
BOTTLE
Stainless steel, Nalgene bottles, or anything that you can use again and again is better than single-serve plastic bottles.
BAG THE PLASTICBAGS
Reusable bags are easier to use for both loading and unloading groceries, and purchases are more likely to survive the trip to and from the store.
USE BAMBOO UTENSILS
Bamboo utensils are naturally antibacterial and can be stored in your backpack, travel bag, or car and you can use it anywhere, with any meal.
SWITCH TO A WOODEN TOOTHBRUSH
A billion toothbrushes will be thrown away in the U.S. this year, most of them plastic. With proper care, wooden toothbrushes last as long as plastic and can be composted when done.
SIP WITH REUSABLE STRAWS
Reusable straws won't break, acquire holes, or tear like plastic ones. They are also super easy to clean in the dishwasher or with the cleaner that most straw sets come with.
GIVE UP PLASTIC GUM
Did you know most gum is made with plastic and is the second most-common form of litter after cigarette butts? Choose gum with plastic-free base like: Simply Gum,