It’s a new time to start good habits any time during the year. A series of reports published in the past few months have painted an even more dire picture of climate change than previously known. Basically, we have 11 years to drastically change our behaviours, waste, infrastructures and greenhouse gas emissions. We’re focused on the first bit: rethinking the way we eat, shop, and dispose. Once you tune into the excessive plastic waste in our daily routines, it’s hard to forget. This new year, let’s focus on shifting toward mindful consumption.
Top tips to reducing the plastic in your life:
Pack the essentials
Don’t leave home without a reusable water bottle, utensils and tote bag.
Go whole
Hit farmers markets and the bulk bins at your local grocers (find bulk options here and farmers markets here).
Stick to the real deal
Invest in reusable rather than disposable:
- cloth napkins and dish towels vs. paper
- beeswax wrap vs. cling wrap
- bamboo toothbrush and comb vs. plastic
- soap and shampoo bars vs. bottled.
You may like this story as well:
Dress smart
Pay attention to clothing tags. Ditch the synthetics and look for natural, breathable fibres like organic cotton, wool, silk, hemp, jute, and linen.
Experiment with DIYs
DIY is good on your body, wallet and planet. We make our own household cleaners, deodorant, toothpaste, body butter, conditioning rinse, and chapstick, each requiring no more than four ingredients.
We’re no strangers to fading resolutions. Set yourself up for success by planning ahead and investing in durable alternatives to disposable everything and start a mindful consumption journey. Also, going plastic-free is easier with family and friends onboard; get a group together and team up for encouragement and accountability.
Publisher’s Note: Kaylin and Mackenzie Marcotte are the co-founders of Project PlastICK, a 30-day challenge to live plastic-free by shifting habits and finding sustainable alternatives. Mackenzie is a DC-based sustainability consultant, agriculture writer, and cyclist. Kaylin is a New York-based marketing and social media consultant, and an avid traveler.
