The Brightside: Preparing For Plastic Free July - Top Tips For Creating New Habits
We are all well aware of the devastating effects plastic pollution has on our natural environment, both in its production and its inability to break down. However, more recently, we have also become aware of how detrimental it is to our health.
Chemical additives such as Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates leech out of the material and contaminate food, water and beverages, causing hormonal disrupters and potential carcinogenic properties. Not to mention the microplastics present in our air, waterways and food.
Looking at the problem of plastic in its entirety can be overwhelming, to say the least! So let's break it down and start the journey with some simple changes you can make around your home and lifestyle.
Self-care and hygiene:
- For teeth cleaning, you can switch to bamboo toothbrushes rather than plastic.
- Plastic toothpaste tubes also need to go. Here is a list of great alternatives and information from Sustainable Jungle.
Beauty:
Joni 100% Linen Robe
AUD $179.00
Kiss The Cook 100% Linen Tea Towel
AUD $35.00
Arabella Linen Table Cloth
AUD $149.00
Food storage:
- Try to avoid packaged food in general by avoiding the middle of the supermarket.
- These days there are many brands that offer plastic free packaged goods or compostable packaging, so you can still snack away if you choose wisely.
- For July, why not commit to heading to your local bulk food store for a weekly stock up on snacks and other goods you would usually buy packaged.
Take away meals and drinks:
- If you love a coffee on the go - bring your reusable coffee cup. Better yet, fork out and buy that coffee machine. Best investment our family ever made!
- Friday night pizza is an easy take out option as it comes in cardboard which is recyclable and biodegradable.
- You could also BYO containers to your favourite local restaurant if they don't offer compostable packaging.
Cleaning:
- For dishwashing, we love Seed & Sprout eco dish cleaning products, including plastic free brushes, compostable and biodegradable cloths, as well as bar detergents.
- In the laundry, use powder rather than liquid detergents. Many brands have even removed the unnecessary plastic scoop (Omo, Woolworths Macro Brand, Eco Store).
- Use stainless steel pegs (they actually last!).
- Make sure to wash any polyester garments in a wash bag to avoid microplastics leaching into our waterways.
Wardrobe:
- 'Wear it to death' – that's the mantra you should have with all of your clothing.
- Choosing anti-trend/classic pieces you love that stand the test of time will mean you can do this with ease.
- Thrift shopping, clothes swap parties with friends, and borrowing clothes for events are all great ways to save on clothing waste and money.
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Live plastic-free with Banabae:
Rad Kid 100% Organic Cotton Two Tone Kids Baseball Cap
AUD $39.00
Sustainable Kitchen
AUD $29.99
Rad Mama x Pottery For The Planet Ceramic Travel Mug
AUD $49.00
You Grow Girl 100% Organic Cotton Kids Cap
AUD $39.00
Know your fibres and shop sustainably.
Read about the benefits of choosing 100% French Flax Linen.
