Reusable Products can Reduce Plastic Consumption

Plastic bottles are commonly used to package mineral drinking water, aerated drinks, juices, sodas and other similar products. They are lightweight and highly durable. They are easy to carry or transport liquids making it a popular packaging choice. The most common type of plastic bottle we use in our daily life is the PET bottles. They can be found by the dozens at our homes and the workplace. They are commonly used to store water, soft drinks, milk, cooking oil, medicine, and much more.

While using plastic bottles may be a common thing in our daily lives, it is not good for the environment. Plastic is a nonbiodegradable material. Plastic products are difficult to recycle. A single plastic bottle takes more than 1000 years to decompose. When they are recycled, the plastic is actually broken down into smaller plastic particles. When the plastic bottles end up in landfills, these smaller plastic particles may leak through the soil and enter our rivers and seas. This leads to water pollution which can end up harming marine life. The plastic water bottles environmental impact should be kept in mind when it comes to using them. The only way to save our planet and future generations from the harmful effects of plastic bottles is by reducing the use of plastic products in our daily lives.

Another reason to stop using plastic bottles is the harmful health effects of drinking water from a plastic bottle. Most plastic bottles are made of called Bisphenol A (BPA), a harmful chemical used to make the plastic more hard and clear. This has been linked to heart diseases, neurological difficulties, early puberty in girls, reduced fertility in women, and even cancer. With increasing awareness of plastic bottle negative effects, a number of people have started using reusable water bottles.

Replace plastic bottles with the following eco-friendly options:

Stainless Steel:

Stainless steel bottles are resistant to rust, chemicals, and high temperatures. They are BPA free and can be used to store drinks. These bottles can be vacuum sealed and insulated which keeps the liquids hot or cold for at least 12 hours.

Glass

Glass water bottles are 100 percent recyclable. They are difficult to carry because of its heavy weight. But they are the great alternative for indoor use. Glass bottles can also be reused for other purposes such as home decoration or to keep plants.

One more important step in reducing plastic consumption is to stop using plastic bags. Plastic bags are the leading cause of the increasing problem of plastic waste all over the world. Some easy alternatives to replace the plastic bag are:

Paper Bags

Paper bags are 100 percent biodegradable, recyclable, and reusable. They can be used out of waste paper or old newspapers. Paper bags are cheaper and can be used as shopping bags, grocery bags, lunch bags, and more.

Jute Bags

Jute bags are known for its strong durability. They are made of natural fiber. A jute bag takes about two years to degrade completely into the environment. Jute bags are stylish and ideal for daily usage. They can be used as shopping bags or handbags.