Single Use plastics and helpful swaps
Single use plastic does exactly what it says – it is used once and then disposed of. The world produces more than 300million tonnes of plastic ever year – and the main ingredient in the process of making plastic comes from oil. So whether the plastic item goes in the rubbish bin or recycled once it has been used, we are still reliant on fossil fuels for our plastic habit.
All products have a environmental impacts, from the extraction of raw materials for production to manufacture, distribution, use and disposal. Following the waste hierarchy will generally lead to the most resource-efficient and environmentally friendly choice. We need to change the way we think about what we use, especially when it comes to plastic. The best option is to try to reduce your reliance on single use items. Here are some helpful swaps:
- Swap plastics water bottles for reusable
- Swap disposable coffee cup for reusable
- Swap pre-packaged fruit and veg for loose
- Swap disposable straws and cutlery for a set you carry with you
- Swap wet wipes or face wipes for a washable cloth
- Swap plastic soap/shower gel bottle for a bar
- Swap single use bags for a tote/reusable one
- Swap cling film for foil or beeswax wraps
- Swap your plastic toothbrush for a bamboo one
- Swap cleaning products for a soluble tablet
We’ve got some other great tips here for you too:
Our Zero waste map shows all the great shops, projects, community groups and other places that help you reduce your waste in Buckinghamshire.
Our Reuse page helps you rethink what to do with items you no longer want or need.
Our Repair page has lots of helpful tips on how and where you can repair broken items.
Our Composting page has tips on home composting and also the discounts available to you as a Buckinghamshire resident.