1. Carry a Reusable Water Bottle
Single-use plastic bottles contribute massively to plastic waste. Switching to a reusable bottle can significantly reduce plastic consumption.
Impact: The average American uses 167 disposable water bottles per year but could save all of them by using a reusable bottle.
2. Avoid Plastic Straws
Opt for metal, glass, bamboo, or silicone straws. Better yet, skip the straw altogether when it’s not necessary.
Impact: Americans use an estimated 500 million plastic straws daily, many of which end up polluting oceans.
3. Say No to Plastic Utensils
When ordering takeout or food delivery, ask the restaurant not to include plastic cutlery if you can use your own at home.
Impact: Reducing the use of disposable plastic cutlery can have a substantial impact, as they are among the top items found during ocean clean-ups.
4. Use Reusable Shopping Bags
Plastic bags are among the most common plastic waste items. Bringing your own reusable cloth or tote bags when shopping helps reduce the use of plastic bags.
Impact: Some cities and countries have reported a 90% reduction in plastic bag use following bans or charges for single-use plastic bags.