How you can reduce your plastic consumption in everyday life

Celebrated as a wonderful invention decades ago, plastic has now become a real burden and a global problem; especially for our environment and the seas. Microplastics can even be found in the Arctic ice and in our food chain. Scientists have calculated that a total of around 8.3 billion tons of plastic have been produced to date. Despite - or paradoxically also because of - its long shelf life, it eventually becomes garbage. And we largely cause this ourselves. But there are alternatives - in everyday life and for each of us! Here are some recommendations for your next purchase and your decisions ...

Shopping with no regrets

Use a basket, box or cloth bag – anything in which you can get by without a plastic bag from the supermarket. This also applies to the purchase of fruit and vegetables - there are reusable alternatives in numerous markets. Or you can simply put the fruits in your basket - after all, most of them are naturally protected by their skin. It is a little more difficult for sausage and cheese - for hygienic (regulation) reasons. However, compromises can often also be found here. Dairy products such as yogurt are usually also available in glasses instead of plastic packaging. And in general, larger units can usually be bought instead of many smaller ones, which in turn saves packaging. This applies particularly to drinks. Or you can alternatively use a practical bubbler – not sure what is meant here. Above all, it is also advisable to cook with as many local products as possible rather than relying on ready made meals. In fact, there are more and more supermarkets where you can shop with reduced packaging or without packaging.

"Dare" to consciously use less plastic

Even with small decisions, you can achieve great success in terms of less plastic. It is important to make it clear at all times whether a plastic product is needed at all, whether something has to be packed or whether there are alternatives. For example, you can bring your own containers for a coffee-to-go, not use plastic dishes, enjoy ice cream from the waffle and, above all, get active yourself: from waste separation to supporting appropriate alternatives, from making a conscious decision to use natural cosmetics for targeted inquiries regarding plastic-free packaging from manufacturers, suppliers and dealers. And there are also plenty of tips and tricks on the Internet that gives alternatives to plastic or microplastics. This will often save you costs and effort as well!

Conclusion: We are all responsible for our behaviour and our demand when it comes to avoiding plastic. So, one day our earth may become a little tidier, healthier and more natural. In any case, we at Le papier are consciously involved!