Here’s ways to reduce plastic use as a parent. Plus why you need to reduce your plastic use.
Did you know July is plastic free month? What is that I hear you ask? Well it’s a global pledge to not buy single use plastic in the month of July. Seems a little too optimistic? I agree. That’s why rather than adding even more to our plate this article is about reducing plastic use.
Plastic can take over our lives as a parent. Think drinks when you’re out and about, plastic tat on the front of magazines, even food packaging. The thought of cutting back can be daunting. There are real benefits to cutting back though. Not only for the planet we want to protect for future generations but also for our pockets. Making these smaller changes can have a big impact.
I should also add, reducing plastic use is much better than recycling. So if you are feeling virtuous because you put your recycling out bin each week, carry on reading. One website claims that only 9% of the World’s plastic actually gets recycled. The stats look a bit better in the UK. Of all the plastic we put in our recycling, only 37% was actually recycled. 19% was sent to landfill. This is exactly why, it is better to reduce or plastic use rather than just relying on recycling.
Jump straight to quick tips.
Why should I reduce plastic use?
There are many reasons to reduce your plastic use as a parent. Firstly, it helps set a good example for your children. Many of us strive to be a good role model. You can show them how to be responsible and treat the planet with respect.
It also helps protect their futures and what they experience in the World. The less plastic we use now, the less in the oceans in the future. We ingest microplastics every single day. There have been some reports that this is the equivalent of a plastic credit card a week! The less we put into the system, the less our children will ingest in the future. Also, the less wildlife will be damaged and so our children get to see all nature has to offer as they grow.
Setting these examples for your children will help them to make better decisions in the future.
How can I reduce my plastic use?
So now we know how to reduce plastic use, we need to look at HOW we reduce plastic use. Life is busy, so we want to keep this as stress free as possible. These quick tips below are ways you can ditch the plastic this July. How many will you use?
Quick tips for reducing plastic use
Fruit & Veg – If your kids are anything like mine, they get through a ton of fruit (the veg not so much!). Consider buying loose fruit and veg when you get the weekly shop. Not only will you be reducing plastic but it often works out cheaper too.
Bottles – Use refillable bottles where possible. Most places you visit on days out now have water fountains so you can top up on the go. Having said that, please let me know if you manage to find leak proof ones!
Coffee – Our bloodstreams are pretty much 90% caffeine at this point right? Don’t leave the house without your reusable coffee cup. Saving plastic, aaaand you quite often get a discount or loyalty stamp for using a refillable cup. You noticing the trend here?
Party bags – Got a party coming up? When you’re filling up those (paper) party bags, skip the plastic tat. For one of my boys parties one year I got some books from The Works on the 10 for £10 offer. At a football party we attended recently the kids were given a pack of football cards and some grip socks. There’s definitely alternatives to little plastic toys that get chucked in the bin.
Baby wipes – every parents lifesaver. They’re great for cleaning bottoms, hands and faces. Not to mention high chairs, trainers and everything in between. Did you also know they contain plastic though? Unfortunately quite a lot of it. Did you know you can get reusable wipes? These are great if you don’t have the time to make your own. If you want to go the whole hog though, you can make your own with this easy beginners guide.
Nappies – You know what goes well with wipes… nappies. If the idea of reusable nappies doesn’t fill you when excitement, then same. However, they are much better than they used to be. I am very thankful mine are out of nappies as I read about a poop knife!
Sandwich bags – Forget the sandwich bags in lunch boxes. Instead of buying pack after pack of sandwich bags try greaseproof paper or beeswax wraps. You can get kits to make your own – it could be a great activity to do with the kids.
Old bag – Off to the shops? Don’t forget your shopping bags. Maybe keep a spare or two in your bag. Guess what i’m going to say next. Less plastic, less pennies!
Playtime – Rethink buying those little stocking filler toys. Consider buying toys that will last, or even better buy second hand. There’s lots of reselling sites, marketplaces, even specific mum to mum markets where you can grab a bargain.
Fill em up – See if you have a refill centre near you, sometimes they visit local markets too. It’s a great way to fill up on pasta, rice, cereals etc. Just remember to take containers with you! If you need new storage containers consider getting glass ones rather than plastic.
Clean up – We already mentioned baby wipes, it may not surprise you to know cleaning wipes also contain plastic. You can get biodegradable wipes which are made of bamboo fibres. You can even make your own if you feel up to it.
Be realistic
Remember, no one is perfect, and every small step you take towards reducing plastic use is a win. Don’t put pressure on yourself to become completely plastic-free overnight. Start with one or two changes that feel manageable, and build from there.
By making conscious choices, you’re not only helping the planet but also teaching your children valuable lessons about sustainability and caring for our world. Plus you may save some money! If you have any other tips or ideas, help a mama out and share them in the comments below.
Sophie x
