Making small changes can have a hugely positive impact! For example, in our store we use recycled paper bags and recycled tissue to prevent our need for plastic packaging. We also reuse and recycle any plastic that is sent to us for packaging purposes. Here’s some suggestions to try out:

Plastic has been getting a lot of bad press lately, with the media highlighting the damaging effects it is having on our oceans, wildlife and our own wellbeing. Over 300 million tonnes of new plastic is used every year, with half of this being used just once, usually for less than 12 minutes. 8 million tonnes of plastic waste ends up in the ocean every year. This plastic contains harmful chemicals such as BPA, pesticides and PCBs; all of which have no place in our oceans!

The plastic that is dumped into the ocean eventually breaks down into tiny particles and is then consumed by fish and other wildlife. Fish that have been killed for human consumption have been found to contain plastic particles that can have carcinogenic effects, cause infertility, increase the risk of cognitive disease and behaviour disorders. The discovery of this is obviously a concern to human wellbeing and has raised awareness for the need to change.

Plastic has become a part of our lives, often using it daily. Whether you dispose of it via recycling methods or disposing into a general waste bin, we are responsible for the demand for plastic therefore making us responsible for disposing of it correctly. We can make a positive change to our lifestyle by making a conscious effort to reduce the amount of plastic that we use and how we dispose of it. Change is inevitable, it is not an option, it is a necessity. 

Bag For Life!

The 5p carrier bag charge hit us hard! It also managed to dramatically reduce the consumption of carrier bags in super markets, which is a huge bonus because if they end up in the ocean they don’t make very nutritious food for the wildlife! Invest in a bag for life, keep it in your car and you won’t have to walk with a balanced a stack of groceries to your car again because you refused to pay the 5p charge.

Buy A Bobble!

No, I don’t mean a bobble for your hair! A Bobble is a brand of water bottle with a built in filter that can be reused over and over that can be found in most major supermarkets. It eliminates the need to buy bottled water because you can fill up from the tap; not only that but it encourages you to stay hydrated all day! It will save you money and limit the amount of waste you create.

Recycle!

Probably the most obvious suggestion, as responsible disposal of plastic can prevent it from landing anywhere unwanted. It also gives it the chance of being recycled and turned into something amazing, such as our beautiful recycled rugs! As plastic takes approximately 450 years to degrade it is better off being reused than buried in a landfill.