How to Break Your Single-Use Plastics Habit: Reviews by Wirecutter | A New York Times Company Some days, I feel like I can’t escape disposable plastics. My favorite deli wraps sandwiches in it, smoothie-cart staff serve slurpable drinks in clear cups, and the office cafeteria keeps buckets of single-serve condiments and plastic utensils on display. These disposables, known as single-use plastics, are cheap, relatively strong, and hygienic to use. In 2016, the world generated 242 million tons of plastic waste, according to The World Bank. The sheer mass of waste isn’t the only problem. Plastics show up in other unexpected places. “Even paper cups are lined with plastic,” she said. A good way to reduce your waste contribution is by assembling a kit of reusable stand-ins and popping it into your commuting bag or office desk drawer so it’s always within reach. Replace basic disposables Rethinking your drink routine can also prevent unintended landfill waste. For those who don’t need a plastic straw to enjoy their next drink, a reusable straw can be handy. BYO to-go containers
Welcome » My Plastic-free Life 10 tips for living with less plastic It's impossible to avoid plastic entirely, but there are effective ways to limit your exposure. Plastic is so commonplace in our world today that it’s nearly impossible to imagine I a life without it. Striving for a plastic-free life, however, remains a noble and worthwhile goal – and it’s becoming easier with every year that passes, as more people demand plastic alternatives and refuse to participate in the grotesque plastic waste that’s filling our planet’s landfills. 1. If you check the bottom of any plastic container, you’ll see a number (1 through 7) inside a triangle made of arrows. #3 – Polyvinyl Chloride, an extremely toxic plastic that contains dangerous additives such as lead and phthalates and is used in plastic wrap, some squeeze bottles, peanut butter jars, and children’s toys #6 – Polystyrene, which contains styrene, a toxin for the brain and nervous system, and is used in Styrofoam, disposable dishes, take-out containers, plastic cutlery 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.