Plastic utensils, flatware, and all of these "one time" conveniences are destroying our oceans. Did you know that there is a massive garbage patch the size of Texas floating in the North Pacific? And it's made almost entirely of plastic!
The other day I was having lunch with a friend, and I forgot to bring my Bamboo utensils with me. That's when I realized that plastic, a convenience we depend on so much, is a convenience we pay a very high price for. And I find that to be devastating. I know I am not going to change the world by not using plastic utensils. But, I feel good knowing I am not contributing to one more plastic spoon or fork floating in the ocean. I am passionate about not using plastic and I think we all can start eliminating our use of plastic. Here are five simple tips to help get you plastic free:
1. When you order food to go at a restaurant, tell them you do not need the plastic utensils. 2. Bamboo utensils can be ordered online. Plus, they come in a cute carrying case!
3. When you order a juice or a smoothie, skip the straw.
4. Take your cloth bags to the grocery store. Hint: always keep a few extra in your trunk.
5. When buying produce, skip the plastic bags. You can order mesh reusable produce bags online.
Check out what these pioneering locales are doing to help save our planet: Hawaii is the first State to fully ban plastic bags in grocery stores. California requires a 10 cent minimum charge for recycled paper bags, reusable plastic bags, and compostable bags at certain locations. Kenya will sentence anyone making, selling, or importing plastic bags with up to 4 years in jail. Wow! That's one of the toughest bans in the world! Tasmania was the first location in Australia to ban the plastic bag. The Philippine financial capital of Makati banned disposable plastic shopping bags and EPS foam food containers. Rwanda has a country wide ban on plastic bags. Ivory Coast has a law banning the production, use and selling of plastic bags. I hope I have inspired you to take a step into a plastic free lifestyle. With a little bit of awareness, we can make a difference. |
