Our reliance on plastic packaging, particularly single-use plastic is a worldwide problem that we must collectively solve by attacking it on multiple fronts:
- We as consumers must reduce the amount of plastic we consume
- Consumers must recycle the plastic they do use
- Companies must use alternative materials instead of plastic
- Recycled plastic must become less expensive than new plastic
- Recycling technologies must be improved and become ubiquitous
One way to prod companies to use alternative materials is to let your voice be heard.
There are a number of petitions on the web that you can sign, urging various companies to eliminate use of single-use plastic. KSB brings these to your attention so you can add your voice should you choose.
Urge Albertsons (and Safeway) to eliminate single-use plastics in their stores
Urge Nestles to eliminate single-use plastics in their stores
Urge Whole Foods to eliminate single-use plastics in their stores
Urge Trader Joes to ditch plastic packaging
There are also petitions that are more generalized, calling for an end to plastic pollution. Again, you can add your voice should you choose.
Change.org petition to end use of single-use plastics
World Wildlife Fund petition to end plastic pollution
The most immediate action you can take is to change your habits:
- Buy and use reusable grocery bags. Your grocer will be happy to use them instead of a plastic bag. You can also use mesh produce bags in place of the bags available in the produce section.
- Buy and use reusable zip-lock bags at home. There are dozens of suppliers whose offerings you can find on the web.
- Use a reusable water bottle and a reusable coffee cup.
- Recycle all plastics that are in fact recyclable.
- Spread the word to your neighbors and friends.
