Have you ever noticed that when you walk down the aisles of your local supermarket, so much of what you see on the shelves is in plastic packaging? Even if it is in a cardboard box, the product inside is often wrapped in a plastic bag. And yes, we all understand products need to stay fresh and last a while on the shelves. But don’t you think it can be done differently?
Over lockdown I had my grocery shopping delivered, and my local supermarket does give the option to get it all packed for delivery in paper bags. Fantastic, great. So then why is it that on some occasions, my loose fruit and veg got packed in separate little plastic bags, even when in the notes of the order I had asked them not to?
I think a lot of people just don’t know or realise the effect plastic has on our environment and ultimately their own health and wellness. I believe we can change that by our own actions and conversations. If we spread this awareness to our own family, friends and community, and then have them do the same, wouldn’t that be fantastic?
There is so much information about what is happening in our environment online and the following is some of what stood out in my research. This information comes from organisations like Greenpeace, National Geographics, WWF Australia and even our Australian Government.
Plastic was invented 150 years ago, and its aim was to be indestructible. It was designed to last forever and not decompose.
Plastic often contains chemicals and toxic additives to make it even stronger, flexible and more durable.
Plastic has been found everywhere, from our own beaches in Australia, Mount Everest and even Antarctic. It contaminates our soil, creeks, rivers and oceans.
Marine wildlife can ingest or get entangled in the plastic, poisoning them and causing them a horrible, painful and slow death.
With help from the elements like the sun, wind and waves, plastic can break down to such small particles called micro-plastics.
Micro-plastics can be absorbed by plants, animals and even find its way into our drinking water, meaning we eat and drink plastic. Each of us digests an estimated 74,000 to 113,000 particles per year.
If we continue to act like nothing needs to change, then we are only ignoring the problem. A lot of big and small businesses are starting to make changes as ecological awareness grows, and the need for all of us to make a difference now is so important for the future.
That then brings me to what we can do at home. How can you and your family make a difference? I’ve already talked about having the conversations. Also learn and research, ask other people what they do or use.
Looking for products that are not in plastic packaging is a great start, and there are lots of options out there. We have got some skin care products in beautiful non-plastic packaging, and the ingredients are all natural so that is a double win. What about using just a nice piece of soap instead of liquid in a plastic bottle? It is so easy to shampoo and condition your hair with a special natural piece of soap. I do the dishes with a piece of solid dish soap and a coconut dish brush, which is also so much better for your hands. Laundry can get cleaned with natural soap flakes and you can even wash your dog with solid dog shampoo.
Bring your own shopping and produce bags when you go shopping. We have got some beautiful and practical ones in The Nature Shack store.
Don’t use single use straws, cutlery, water bottles or take-away cups when you are out and about. Bring your own reusable ones from home.
I myself still have lots to learn and research. There are so many things that I still need to change. But I’m on my way and we are having the conversations. So come on this journey with me and let’s make a difference together!
