PROBLEMATIC PLASTIC |
Learn how to kick your plastic addiction |
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You probably use much more plastic than you think. A coffee cup in the morning, a take-out container for lunch, a water bottle after a workout, seven or eight plastic bags at the market for produce, plus three or four more bags to carry it into the kitchen. It all adds up to about one pound of plastic per day. The average person living in North America uses 220 pounds of plastic each year, mostly in the form of packaging. Recent studies show us recycling is not enough because less than 10% of all plastic has ever been recycled. So how do we break this cycle of dependence on plastics?
In the most current issue, Bon Appetite Magazine is highlighting how to break your plastic habits in everyday life. The article details many practical tips for beginning your journey towards a “greener” life. This article might be of particular interest to those considering the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science program here at Wilmington University. However, this topic is important to anyone who is concerned about protecting the environment and those who want to work toward avoiding the depletion of natural resources in an effort to maintain an ecological balance. Here are some small ways to overcome your plastic problem:
For more information about environmental science, sustainability or to read a copy of one of our many new
magazines, please visit the Wilmington University Library! |
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Did you know 17 million barrels of oil are used in the production of plastic bottles each year? Ditch the plastic and get a glass or stainless steel one. |
Swap out your plastic grocery bags and produce bags for reusable ones. Storing produce cotton actually keeps food fresh longer. |
Plastic containers for salad mix never biodegrade. Pick whole vegetables and leafy greens at the grocery store over prepackaged or pre-diced foods. |
It sounds like we all need to be more mindful and think about what we do. It's great to say we will bring a tote into a store or bring reusable containers for restaurant leftovers, but to do this, we have to plan ahead.
I came across an opinion piece by Kristen Hartke of NPR while writing this blog post that you might find interesting to read. The author discusses, as you mentioned, a need to plan ahead. Specifically she mentions the need to think before you buy! Link to the article here... Commentary: 4 Ways To Reduce Plastics And Other Single-Use Disposables In Your Kitchen.
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Latest comment 2019-03-27T12:11:00-04:00 by Erica Jones