There is more to eliminating plastic than just buying fewer packaged items (i.e. food, clothing, etc.). The use of plastics, and other waste, start at the top. From the creation of the product, to its treatment of employees, its packaging and shipping practices, there is more than what meets the eye. Now, onto the topic of this post.

I will not be counting the plastic that I have brought in prior to the start of the month. I am focusing on the month of July, what plastic I bring in, and how I can make the situation better. For instance, we go out for tea periodically (yes, we always follow social distancing protocols), which is served in to-go cups since personal cups cannot be used right now. I do take my own straws, but that’s a whole other thing. Companies don’t make less straws because I’m not buying them. They have already been manufactured and will be used. It is too bad that companies can’t make less to reflect those of us who do not wish to use them (and other things we have alternatives for), but they don’t. Always stay a realist.

Unfortunately my trash can fell apart after several years of loyal garbage-holding. I am in the market for a new one, but am picky, so for the moment there isn’t one. On the plus-side, I’ve been even more conscious about the trash being tossed. For those of you who have been around for the start of my low-waste journey, you know that I tend to just dive right in until there is a happy medium. I had a trash jar, but have since changed my tune about its usefulness and how misrepresentative it is. Since I will be keeping a tally, if it’s not in picture-form, then the plastic waste will be held in some fashion. I’m curious to see the end result, and can’t wait to see if alternatives can be suggested.

If you are participating, what are your expectations? Have you decided on any swaps? Remember that you don’t need to spend extra. Use what you have first 🙂

Peace & Love, always!