Why is it so important to go plastic free?

Becoming plastic-free is a goal for many in the coming years.

Everyone all over the world is more aware of how much plastic they use with the likes of Adidas, McDonald's, and even the Olympics aiming to be plastic-free in 2024. 

How can you help?

Becoming plastic-free isn't going to happen overnight and that isn't always your fault, it's the fault of retailers. However, there ARE some small switches you can make to instantly cut the amount of plastic you use, and it's easier than you think.

Here are a few simple ways that you can cut plastic from everyday life and make small steps towards a big lifestyle change:

Cutting your use of plastic water bottles, shampoo and plastic tubes isn't just good for the environment but has a positive effect on your bank balance too. Visit a zero-waste shop in your local area to top up on pasta, washing up liquid, spices, and so on, you'll be amazed at what you can get there.

Another small change is to stop using plastic straws - there's been a massive push in recent years to decrease the use of plastic straws with a lot of bars/restaurants and even fast-food restaurants cutting them out completely. However, this hasn't stopped the production of them, there are so many great alternatives like metal straws and even a straw you can fit in your pocket to take on a night out with you.

So, WHY do you need to stop using plastic?

If you haven't watched Blue Planet II then you really need to. Not just for David Attenborough but because the final episode touched on our excessive use of plastic and the terrifying effect that it's having on the planet. It's easy to just throw things away but they usually end up being eaten by animals which can have a fatal result.

Plastic also takes years to decompose (450 for bottles and 1000s for plastic bags) meaning they're just sitting there, not being reused and literally just being wasted. Make the switch to plastic-free. There is NOTHING you'll regret about it.

You can always find new and innovative ways to replace plastic in your day-to-day life. This might be replacing your plastic toothbrush or looking into your favourite makeup products and the amount of plastic this uses. Whichever way you try to reduce your use of plastic, every little helps!