The impact of single use-plastic on our environment is vast. Much of the plastic we use is not recycled and although there is no definitive figure, estimates suggest a huge amount of this ends up in the ocean. The good news is, if everyone plays their part this can change. In support of Plastic Free July I want to share some tips about going plastic free with food.
The three Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle) are a good first step when thinking about becoming more environmentally friendly.
Reduce – consider what you’re buying and if you really need it. Try to buy food not wrapped in plastic packaging. Meal planning and writing a shopping list is a great way to help you stick to buying only what you need.
Reuse – use plastic items multiple times so they aren’t being thrown away immediately. You could also repurpose them.
Recycle – if buying things in packaging, make sure it can be recycled and recycle it properly. Buy products made from recycled materials.
Reducing plastic use when shopping
- I think the one a lot of people are aware of is using reusable shopping bags. It’s a good idea to keep shopping bags in your car so you don’t forget when you go for your weekly ‘big shop’. Another tip is to buy a foldaway bag that can easily fit in your handbag or pocket. That way, if you end up popping to a shop unexpectedly (like I often do after walking the dogs) you’re prepared.
- Buy dried goods such as cereal, grains and nuts from a bulk food shop. Also know as zero waste or refill shops, these are popping up all over the place now. They allow you to bring your own containers to fill up with what you need. They are also really useful for only buying the amount you need. No more having to buy a whole jar of ground allspice when you only need it for one cake! This saves you money and waste.
- Try to buy fresh food without plastic packaging. If you go to the butchers or fishmongers take your own containers. Nowadays, more and more supermarkets are selling fruit and veg loose and provide paper bags to put these in.
- Making use of local companies delivery services for things such as milk, fruit, vega and meat can be a good way to reduce plastic packaging. This often seems like a pricier option, but if you meal plan you could end up needing less than what you would buy in the supermarket. It limits impulse buying and the fruit and veg is likely to be more seasonal.
- Finally, if you have the time you could make your own hummus and snacks, such as my chocolate orange bites.
Reducing plastic use when storing food
- When storing food and leftovers in the fridge or cupboards, use reusable containers instead of wrapping food in clingfilm.
- Beeswax wraps are also great for wrapping up food or putting over the top of open bowls to seal them.
Reducing plastic use when out and about
- When you’re going out for a walk or picnic take a reusable water bottle with you. These can usually be refilled for free too, instead of having to buy another bottle of water.
- Having a reusable coffee cup is not only better for the environment, but lots of coffee shops offer a small discount on your drink when using your cup.
- Say no to plastic straws. If you like to use straws in the house, metal ones that can be washed are a good alternative.
- Making your own lunch to take to work and taking it in a reusable lunch box can be a great way to cut down on buying prepackaged sandwiches or salads.
It can feel overwhelming if you try to make a lot of changes in one go. Start with small, sustainable changes that fit in with your life. If everyone starts making small changes now, it can make a big difference in the future.
Do you have any other tips?
