How You Can Reduce Plastic Waste and Save Our Oceans
By Olivia Hampton
Plastics are entering our oceans at alarming rates, with an estimated 8 million tons annually polluting the seas. While it may feel overwhelming, there are things you can do to reduce plastic pollution and save marine life from plastic pollution. Below are 5 simple habits you can adopt to reduce plastic waste.
Stop using plastic straws!
This is an easy place to start. Plastic straws take an estimated 200 years to degrade! There are several options to replace your plastic straw with something more sustainable. You can carry your own stainless steel straw (like this one sold by us at Save the Waves), stock up on paper or bamboo straws that are biodegradable, encourage your local restaurants and coffee shops to ditch the plastic or cut out straws completely. With so many alternatives, it is easy to ditch that wasteful plastic straw. The sea turtles will thank you!
Need a breath refresher? Consider trading out gum for mints.
We hate to say it, but most chewing gums on the market contain plastic. Whether the idea of chewing on plastic turns you off or if you’re willing to give it up to save our oceans, there are plenty of alternatives to traditional chewing gum. Mints are an obvious choice, but you can also get your fix from natural and organic chewing gums. Keep your breath and our oceans fresh!
No more plastic bags.
You’ve heard this one before. Bring your reusable bags to the grocery store, shopping for clothes, or grabbing takeout. Do you always forget your bags when you run out of the door? Easy fix! Leave a few bags in your car for emergencies. If you aren’t doing this already, it’s an easy way to reduce your plastic waste.
Reuse and Recycle properly!
If you grab takeout or have leftovers to take home from a dinner out, plastic takeout containers may be unavoidable. But your night out doesn’t have to pollute our oceans. Many plastic takeout containers can be reused, which eliminates the need to purchase costly and wasteful plastic Tupperware. It’s a win-win!
Make plastic cups and bottles a thing of the past.
In the graphic to the right, we have broken down the amount of time it takes for various plastic products to break down in the ocean. Some of the biggest offenders are plastic cups and bottles. The good news is you can easily switch out these harmful utensils for more sustainable (and stylish) reusable options. Stainless steel water bottles and insulated coffee mugs are widely available for purchase, and you can always ask your barista to pour your latte into that reusable mug. If you’re looking to make a statement and support ocean conservation efforts with your water bottle, check out our Save the Waves stainless steel bottle!
Reducing your plastic waste may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! Keep checking our blog for helpful tips, and support organizations who are dedicated to conserving our oceans.