Whilst we
as individuals are not necessarily the main causes of climate changes (I’m
looking at all you massive corporations over there in the back, not even
reading this post), but we can individually do our bit to help the environment
just a little. One of these ways is to produce less waste, which means less
going to the landfill site and less being thrown in the oceans or blown out
into the world in the wind!
1. Stop buying plastic water bottles
I will
freely admit that I’m not great at this one. I have used reusable water bottles
most of my life, but since my last once wore out over a year ago (it was metal
and very dented) I haven’t purchased a new one. Since then, I’ve been using plastic
water bottles in rotation – getting a new one each time I forget to pack the
one I’m currently using. This saves some waste and money, but I do need to get
around to buying a new sturdier one.
Reusing
water bottles saves so much plastic. Single-use bottles just become silly and unnecessary.
Reuse your water bottles people!
2. Always carry a tote/reusable carrier bag
I always do
my best at bringing a tote bag with me when going shopping – it’s been part of
my routine for a long time, seeing as the Welsh Government put the 5p charge on
plastic bags in 2011 and the rest of the UK following suit not too long after.
But there are times that I forget to bring a bag, so recently I’ve been keeping
a tote bag folded up at the bottom of my rucksack/handbag so that I am never
stuck.
PSA for
students: you can pick up free tote bags at any uni open day. They will have
the name of the uni on it but honestly I don’t see that as a problem, it’s just
the same as a brand having their name on a plastic bag.
3. Make packed lunches
Most of the
lunches I bring into college are leftovers from meals I’ve had either the night
before or frozen. My family have a few sturdy lunchboxes which we share and are
a great size. One timesaver is to make extra food in the evening and
pre-package the night before. For example, I once made a curry last a week and
it’s pretty easy to cook an extra 100g of pasta and a few spoons more sauce and
let it cool.
If you do
have to buy lunch (due to lack of time, etc.) then try to go somewhere that has
largely recyclable packaging or maybe eat in with plate. Similarly, try to
avoid using plastic cutlery and carry around a spoon or fork in with you from
home. Just remember to take them out of your bag so they don’t accumulate in a
pocket! (Not that I’ve done that before…)
4. Donate, don’t throw away
Minimalism
is a growing trend, and it’s a lifestyle I would love to lead but know I would
never be capable of. I think I’m just too much of a messy person and I get way
too sentimental about things.
Despite
this, I have been trying to clear out some of my stuff and get rid of things
that are just lying about unused – we all need to have a clear out at some
point any way. What I suggest doing, instead of throwing anything out straight
away is to check the condition and the type of object and then donate it to a
charity shop or homeless shelter if the items are suitable. This way you can
make some space whilst helping others and ensuring that items reach their full
potential.
5. Wear a menstrual cup!
It’s no
secret how much I love my menstrual cup – I will talk about it to friends and
strangers alike (hence my blog series, #ACupaDay) – but there is a reason for
my enthusiasm. For people who menstruate, disposable products such as tampons
and pads are the initial go-to that we’re taught from the get-go are the only
things to use during your period. Think about it: you’ve got the products
themselves, the packaging/wrapping and then the applicators (if they’re there).
That’s ridiculous amounts to be throwing away.
However, in the past few years I have become much more aware about the
array of products that we have available to us. My menstrual cup has changed my
life (not even exaggerating) but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will suit
you. If you don’t like the idea of a menstrual cup, you could always use period
underwear or reusable pads (just make sure you wash them regularly!).
What do you
do to reduce waste?
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