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Hello again!
Here's part two on plastic alternatives...
- Use reusable grocery bags instead of plastic bags.
- Try wax-coated or fabric lunch/sandwich bags: They're reusable sandwich bags made from cotton fabric coated with beeswax, soy wax, or plant-based wax are another eco-friendly alternative. These types of bags are washable, reusable, and provide a sustainable option for storing sandwiches and snacks.
- Choose glass jars or containers for food storage instead of plastic.
- Swap out plastic water bottles for refillable stainless steel or glass ones.
- Use reusable beeswax wraps instead of plastic wrap and choose glass storage containers.
I also put plates on top of bowls in the refrigerator.
- Choose stainless steel, bamboo, or wood cutlery.
Look for bamboo items that are labeled as being free from formaldehyde or other toxic substances.
- Purchase products in bulk to minimize plastic packaging.
- Choose bar soap instead of liquid soap in plastic bottles.
- Use natural fiber cloth towels instead of disposable paper towels.
- Buy household cleaning products in concentrate form to reduce plastic packaging.
- Choose stainless steel straws instead of plastic ones.
- Purchase wooden or bamboo toothbrushes instead of plastic ones.
- Make your own household cleaners using natural ingredients in refillable glass spray bottles.
- Choose wooden or metal hangers instead of plastic ones.
- Opt for (ideally organic) natural fiber clothing and textiles over synthetic materials made from plastic.
- Avoid single-use plastic containers and utensils by packing waste-free lunches.
- Use compostable trash bags instead of traditional plastic bags.
- Select skincare and cosmetic products with minimal or recyclable plastic packaging (though nontoxic ingredients are most important to me).
- Choose refillable bulk shampoo, conditioner, and lotion options to reduce plastic bottles.
- Use stainless steel or glass food containers for packed lunches instead of plastic baggies.
- Replace plastic sponges with natural fiber or compostable alternatives.
- Choose wooden or metal kitchen utensils instead of plastic ones.
- Avoid plastic packaging by purchasing fresh produce without plastic wrapping. I've got organic cotton mesh bags.
- Use a refillable coffee mug instead of disposable plastic or paper cups (many paper cups are treated with a chemical to make them waterproof so go for the ones that highlight no plastic liner chemicals. *If it's "compostable" it shouldn't have those chemicals).
- Create your own compost to reduce the need for plastic garbage bags.
- Select bar shampoo and conditioner instead of bottled options.
- Choose plant-based or biodegradable dishwashing liquid and laundry detergent.
- Swap out plastic ice cube trays for stainless steel metal without the nonstick coating.
- Consider alternatives to plastic toys, such as wooden or fabric options.
- Avoid purchasing products with excessive plastic packaging or wrapping.
- Use a water filter and refillable glass or stainless steel water bottles instead of buying bottled water. Beware of products from China. (See ** for the reasons why.)
- Choose (ideally organic) natural fibers for bedding and linens instead of synthetic materials made from plastic.
- Opt for natural bristle brushes instead of plastic ones for cleaning and scrubbing.
- Replace plastic plant pots with biodegradable or ceramic options.
- Use a safety razor with replaceable blades instead of disposable plastic razors.
- Choose refillable, eco-friendly pens and markers instead of disposable plastic ones.
- Select natural fiber rugs and carpets rather than those made from synthetic materials.
- Purchase household items, such as furniture and decor, made from sustainable materials, like solid wood, rather than plastic.
- Consider using stainless steel or ceramic dog and cat feeding bowls instead of plastic ones.
- If you like to ski, there are now plastic-free skis which often incorporate alternative materials such as natural fibers, bio-based resins, and recycled materials to create a more environmentally friendly product.
One tidbit to consider...Have you heard of biodegradable and compostable plastic?
Skip the biodegradable as many of those just break down into microplastics, and we certainly don't want more of that stuff.
And, while compostable plastic alternatives offer certain benefits, there are also potential downsides to consider:
- Limited availability of composting facilities: Proper disposal of compostable plastics requires access to industrial composting facilities, which may not be widely available in all areas. Without these facilities, compostable plastics may still end up in landfills where they do not break down effectively.
- Contamination issues: Compostable plastics can contaminate recycling streams if incorrectly disposed of, leading to challenges in the sorting and recycling process.
- Energy-intensive production: The production of some compostable plastics may rely on intensive agricultural practices and high energy consumption, contributing to environmental impact.
- Misleading labeling: Some products labeled as “compostable” may not meet recognized compostability standards, leading to confusion and potential greenwashing.
- Disposal in marine environments: If not properly disposed of, even compostable plastics can pose a threat to marine life and ecosystems.
This should keep you busy! Let me know if this has been helpful.
Be well,
Amy
The P.S. parts (*) and (**)
*When looking for compostable plastics that are suitable for home composting and free from additives or synthetic chemicals, it’s essential to look for certifications such as the “Home Compostable” label or standards like the ASTM D6400 or EN13432, which indicate that the material is compostable in a home composting environment and meets specific criteria for biodegradability. Checking with the manufacturer or supplier for specific product information and certifications can also help ensure that the chosen compostable plastic meets the desired criteria.
- PLA (polylactic acid) - a bioplastic made from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane, which can be composted in a home compost pile.
- Mater-Bi - a compostable bioplastic made from renewable resources, such as corn starch and vegetable oils, which can also be composted in a home composting environment.
**Some concerns about the safety of certain products from Chinese manufacturers have arisen due to various factors, including:
- Quality Control Issues: In some cases, products from China may have been found to have substandard quality due to inadequate quality control measures in manufacturing facilities. This can lead to issues such as breakage, malfunction, or potential safety hazards.
- Regulatory and Compliance Challenges: Differences in regulatory standards and enforcement in China compared to other regions can lead to concerns about product safety and compliance with international safety standards.
- Counterfeit Products: China has been associated with the production of counterfeit goods, which may pose risks due to inaccuracies in materials, ingredients, or safety features.
- Environmental and Health Concerns: Instances of environmental pollution, the use of potentially harmful chemicals, and concerns about product safety have been reported in some manufacturing sectors in China.
- Lack of Transparency: Concerns have been raised about transparency and traceability in the Chinese supply chain, which can impact oversight and accountability for product safety.
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