Plastic. It’s convenient, it’s everywhere, and it’s a big problem for our planet. But what if we could change our relationship with plastic? What if we could take meaningful steps towards sidewalks uncluttered by disposable plastics that harm our environment? Well, here’s how you can reduce your reliance on single-use plastics and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.

 

Step 1: Understand the Impact

Every plastic straw, coffee cup lid, or water bottle might seem insignificant on its own, but together, these items contribute to a staggering problem. According to the United Nations, up to 13 million tons of plastic leak into our oceans every year, affecting biodiversity, the economy, and health [1]. This isn’t just an environmental crisis; it’s affects all of us who are part of this interconnected world.

When plastics infest the ocean, they also infest humans. According to a recent study, 60% of fish examined globally contained microplastics, especially carnivorous fish that most of us consume such as tuna, salmon, cod, grouper, etc. [2].

Step 2: Start Simple

Embarking on your plastic-free journey doesn’t require perfection; it just needs intention. Begin with the basics:

  • Refuse plastic straws and utensils: Opt for reusable or biodegradable alternatives. Keep a set in your bag or car for on-the-go convenience.
  • Bring your own bags: Whether it’s for groceries or general shopping, reusable bags are sturdy, stylish, and make a statement about who you are and what you stand for.
  • Choose to reuse: Water bottles, coffee cups, and other daily items come in eco-friendly versions. A one-time purchase can save hundreds of plastic bottles and cups from polluting the environment.

Step 3: Rethink Your Grocery Habits

Supermarkets are a battleground of plastic packaging. However, with a few tweaks, you can significantly cut down on your plastic footprint:

  • Buy in bulk: Many stores offer bulk bins where you can fill up on grains, nuts, and other staples using your own containers.
  • Choose products in paper or glass: These materials are easier to recycle and less harmful to produce. If that’s not an option, bring reusable produce bags into the store to wrap up your fruit and veggies.
  • Support local farmers’ markets: Fresh produce without the plastic wrapping is what you’ll find here. Plus, the food is often organic and locally sourced, slashing your carbon footprint even further.

Step 4: Beauty and Personal Care

The beauty industry is notorious for its plastic use, but there are alternatives:

  • Solid shampoos, conditioners, and soaps: These products often come with minimal or no packaging and last much longer than their bottled counterparts.
  • Refill stations: Some stores offer refills for everything from soap to laundry detergent.
  • Shop sustainable companies: There are a few companies out there dedicated to reducing their carbon footprint. Look for glass, compostable or refillable packaging.

Step 5: Advocate and Educate

Change doesn’t happen in isolation. Talk about your choices and share your experiences. Advocacy can influence others and even inspire businesses to consider how they package their products. The more demand there is for sustainable options, the more the market will shift to meet it.

Our Stand Against Plastic

At Boon For All-Ecco Bella, we’re not just talking the talk; we’re walking the walk. We believe that what’s good for the earth is good for us, too. That’s why our skincare products come in glass containers—infinitely recyclable, and endlessly reusable. Some of our makeup is housed in refillable and reusable packaging, aligning beauty with environmental consciousness.

Moreover, our Boon Broth and Boon Collagen Reviver are packaged in compostable bags, reducing waste without compromising quality. We’re committed to providing options that protect and nourish both your body and the planet.

Embracing a Sustainable Lifestyle

Reducing your use of single-use plastics is a profound way to protect the planet. It’s about making choices that align with a vision of the world we want to live in—a world where nature thrives, oceans are clean, and communities are healthy. Your choices have power, your actions have an impact.

References:

  1. United Nations Environment Programme. (2018). Single-use plastics: A roadmap for sustainability. https://www.unep.org/resources/report/single-use-plastics-roadmap-sustainability
  2. Baechler, B. R., Granek, E. F., & Hunter, M. V. (2020). Microplastic variability in single fish species reflects trophic level and habitat. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 160, 111633. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111633