Life without plastic: The 5 most important tips for a plastic-free life

by Tobias

Life without plastic is good for the environment. Time and again we hear about the huge mountains of rubbish in the oceans that pollute our planet. With a few simple tips you can save plastic in your everyday life.

Why living without plastic makes sense

Plastic is dangerous – for animals and humans alike. High time to become aware of the consequences plastic has for our habitat.

  • Microplastics are particularly harmful to our environment and our drinking water. This term refers to pieces of plastic that are smaller than five millimetres.
  • These small plastic particles are produced and used for scrubs, toothpaste or as granules in industry.
  • Microplastic is also produced by the weather-related decay of larger plastic parts. It is sharp-edged and indigestible.
  • These small plastic particles are eaten by animals but can no longer be excreted. Animals starve to death on a full stomach.
  • Microplastics also enter our food through the food chain.
  • Living without plastic also avoids countless pollutants that are produced during the manufacturing, burning and degradation of plastic.
  • Not least, not using plastic keeps our beaches, forests and cities clean.

Five tips for a life without plastic

The many harmful effects of plastic show us: it’s time to do something. Everyone can contribute in everyday life and use less plastic. We have compiled the five most important tips.

  • Avoid plastic in personal hygiene: use a toothbrush made of wood, cotton buds made of bamboo and make sure shower gel and shampoo do not contain microplastics. Soap is a good substitute.
  • Drink tap water: In our country, tap water is of the highest quality and can be drunk without any problems. This will save you a lot of plastic bottles.
  • Always take a bag with you when you go shopping: Since January 2022 and the accompanying ban on plastic bags at the checkout, plastic bags are disappearing from the supermarket scene. Paper bags are not a better alternative, according to the Federal Environment Ministry. Go for reusable carrier bags made of fabric. They are lightweight, can be folded up and are therefore a perfect companion for shopping.
  • Use glass fresh food jars: Instead of plastic jars, glass containers are also suitable for storing and carrying food. Empty jam jars, for example, are ideal for storing spices.
  • Switch to filter coffee. One capsule in the machine and the coffee is ready. It’s convenient, but it creates a lot of plastic waste. A coffee machine with a filter is more sustainable. Use reusable coffee filters for this as well.

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