The Problem of Plastic

We hear everywhere ‘plastics are bad’, ‘plastics are polluting our environment’ and ‘plastics are killing us’… but what is the problem with plastics? Why are they so harmful and why has our society become so self-reliant on plastic?

🙋🏽‍♀️ What the hell is it?

Plastics are synthetic materials made from polymers, which are long chains of repeating molecules. They are derived from fossil fuels and we've become increasingly reliant on plastics due to their versatility, durability, and low cost of production. Their adaptability makes them ubiquitous in various industries, from packaging to electronics, revolutionizing modern convenience. However, their non-biodegradable nature poses significant environmental challenges, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. Did you know all the plastic ever created is still in our ecosystems? And that plastic never decomposes, it just breaks down into teeny tiny pieces called micro and nano plastics.

🤷🏼‍♀️ Why are they a problem?

Plastics are a complete nuisance. They pose a threat to human health through the leaching of harmful chemicals into food and water sources via the soil, air and water, causing diseases and hormonal disruptions. Wildlife often mistake plastic debris for food, leading to ingestion and entanglement, resulting in injury or death. Additionally, plastics persist in the environment for hundreds of years, polluting ecosystems, disrupting habitats, and contributing to global issues like ocean pollution and climate change.

🌏 How do we break up with plastics?

Breaking up with plastic isn’t easy but we CAN do it. A break-up involves a multi-faceted approach including reducing consumption, opting for reusable alternatives, and supporting policies promoting plastic reduction and recycling. Embracing a "refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle" mindset can significantly minimize plastic usage in daily life. Innovations in sustainable materials and circular economy initiatives also offer promising pathways towards reducing plastic dependency and mitigating its environmental impact.

Sustainable Living Tips

This week, we’re focusing on tips for reducing your plastic consumption!

🛍Bring your own reusable bags and containers when shopping to avoid single-use plastics.

🙏🏽Opt for products with minimal or no plastic packaging, and choose items in glass, metal, or cardboard containers instead.

🎋Invest in reusable alternatives such as stainless steel straws, bamboo utensils, and refillable water bottles.

✨Buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste, and consider shopping at bulk stores or farmers' markets.

✋🏽Say no to single-use plastics like plastic straws, cutlery, and cups, and encourage others to do the same.

👏🏼Choose products with eco-friendly packaging or packaging made from recycled materials.

🙅🏽‍♀️Avoid using plastic wrap and opt for beeswax wraps or reusable silicone covers for food storage.

🧐Look for personal care and cleaning products sold in refillable or compostable packaging.

💖Support businesses and brands committed to reducing plastic usage and promoting sustainability.

🎙Spread awareness about the importance of reducing plastic consumption and inspire others to join the movement.

Zerra & Co.

I love Zerra & Co. for all of my makeup needs. Their ingredients are clean, vegan and come in refillable packaging so you can go zero waste. Plus I love that 1% of their donations go to organisations supporting the fight against climate change and they’re leaping bunny certified! Need I say anymore?!

🎊 Chicago is suing oil companies for climate change!

🪸 Coral reefs cover more of the ocean than we first thought.

💧 The US is funding $5.8 billion for water infrastructure projects.