How to Turn "Single-Use" Plastic Into "Multi-Use" Plastic!
Single-use plastics are one of the greatest culprits of waste in the world. It can take thousands of years for plastic to disintegrate as they release pollutants into the air and water system, and are harmful wildlife.
Unfortunately, single-use plastic isn’t going away anytime soon. Although many states have banned their use entirely, people still consume plastic at alarming rates.
What people can do is limit how much plastic they consume and here’s how!
Reuse Plastic Bags
Many states in the US have regulated plastic bag distribution. In some cities, the use of plastic bags is banned. You have to rely on bringing your own to stores. If you do have plastic bags, use them whenever you go. If the demand for plastic bags decreases, companies won’t make them. Or possibly change the material to be disposable.
Even reuse your plastic baggies if possible. If you rely on plastic baggies for lunches or food storage, wash them after you’ve used them and place them on a drying rack. You not only save money but reduce the plastic on our planet.
Reuse Freezer Bags
Lots of people buy frozen items such as fruits or vegetables with a resealable top. If you buy frozen bags with a resealable lid, wash them after and use them again later. You can freeze meals in the future or use the baggies as a replacement of any storage. Don’t throw out those frozen food bags; it’s easy to forget we can always find a use for them later.
Plastic Planters
A great way to single-use plastic, whether it's a water bottle or plastic fruit container, but reusing plastic to grow plants is a perfect way to reuse the plastic you have without buying new pots for plants. If you want to start a small herb garden, reuse plastic before resorting to buying a pot.
Use Plastic Bags for Garbage Bags
Have plastic grocery bags piled up? Maybe fruit and vegetable bags from the store? If you have a few for shopping purposes but also have a few leftovers, consider using them for small bins in an office or bathroom. That way, you don’t rely on buying small garbage bags, and you reuse the extra bags you already have.
Eliminate Your Single-Use Cleaning Products
Many companies are eliminating single-use plastic in their companies. Companies like CleanPacs have a mission to revolutionize the way people think of cleaning. Instead, they send refill pacs for their products through their subscription service, and you just add water to your reusable bottle. Millions of plastic containers end up in landfills. You can eliminate dozens of single-use plastic containers every year with that one change. All of your cleaning products and laundry detergent can be replaced.
Use Plastic Containers For Food Storage
Lots of foods come in plastic containers with a removable lid. Whenever you have these, wash them after and save them to use as storage containers. Whenever you have leftovers, you can use these food containers. The different sizes and shapes will help keep your fridge organized, and you won’t have to purchase plastic containers.
Use For Spices
If you use lots of spices and dry ingredients, you can use small, thin plastic bottles as spice containers. Even jars for peanut butter can be used to store flour or sugar. Get creative! Don’t let those small single-use plastic bottles go to waste.
Arts and Crafts for Kids
If you have kids, save plastic containers for a rainy day. With a little research on the internet, you can find several ways to incorporate a plastic container in a science project or fun activities, such as making a piggy bank out of a bottle. At least the plastic won’t go to waste, and your kids can be entertained.
If you want to limit single-plastic use continuously, you’ll need to stop purchasing single-use and find alternatives. Whenever you have other plastic, try to find uses whenever possible.
