10 Ways To “Just Say No” To Plastic

1. BYOB. As in, “bring your own bag” to the store! Instead of bringing home those flimsy, hard to recycle plastic bags from stores, bring your own canvas or reusable shopping bag from home and ask the store to place your newly purchased items in it. Remember: plastic bags are in production because of supply having to meet demand. In this case, less means less!
2. Bottle your own water. Sure those plastic water bottles are an easy grab at the grocery store. But 24 plastic bottles even when recycled are still 24 PLASTIC BOTTLES! Why not save some money, room in the fridge and the planet by refilling your own plastic or glass water jug?
3. Try a zero waste lunch. Next time you go to grab a zip lock bag to put those snacks in, reach for a reusable plastic or glass dish? Just remember, kids and glass don’t always mix!
4. Pack a lunch like mom used to do. Get a lunch box and fill it, rather than buying pre-packaged goods or a meal sealed in plastic.
5. Be aware of packaging. It seems that plastic is covering every item down every isle. Ask for your butcher or deli counter to pack your meat in butcher paper and keep fruits and veggies loose are just a few ways you can say no to plastic.
6. Take charge of takeout. While not quite mainstream, many restaurants are hip to packing takeout or leftovers in your own containers. It saves them money and helps you save the planet!
7. Just say no to straws. Ask the coffee shop to hold the straw when ordering your iced latte. You can pack your own reusable stainless steel straw which will transport your cold shot of coffee in a stylish way.
8. Party like an eco-star. Treat your guests to reusable plates and utensils or serve foods that do not require them at all. Set up a recycling “center” near the food that is clearly marked with what goes where.
9. Get smart with your soap.  Read labels and choose to not purchase products containing microbeads (aka plastic!)
10. Educate yourself. Read the effects of plastics on your body and the environment. I guarantee you will be amazed (and not in a good way!)