We are in the final days of Plastic-Free July, which is really exciting. Every year I learn something new. The state of plastic usage changes, and this year was so different from the times before. This pandemic has changed how bulk sections are treated, and most places won’t allow personal reusable cups, bags, etc. Can you bring your own cups and bags? Sometimes, but doing so increases the risk for employees and everyone else. Just because you see your item as being sanitized doesn’t mean that it is. There are also people who are asymptomatic who go out and unknowingly spread the virus. This issue is so multifaceted. Right now, if you can limit risk, do it. Also, don’t lie or say things to manipulate the situation in your favor (i.e. “But I was able to use my container last time.”). Employees aren’t stupid, and (whether or not you mean to) you’ll sound like an entitled jerk. This virus isn’t as straightforward as we want to think. Insert tangent:

We are learning more and more about the virus as time goes on. Things are changing because we don’t know everything about it, and the information will continue to change. While we may expect everything to be known, viruses and current technology don’t work that way. It’s just my opinion, but I think a big problem, at least in the States, is that we have become so used to having everything now. Often times you can order an item over the phone, or online, and have it in a day or two. It used to take about 14 days to get an order. We also see unrealistic expectations and timelines portrayed in film, which doesn’t help. There are multiple media outlets that promote facts, and false information, so some people are taking things less seriously than they should be. We need to be more patient, which this period in time has really taught me. Yes, it is frustrating, but it’s not forever. I wonder what the history books will have to say about it. Anyway, there is so much more that I could talk about regarding this, but I have tried to keep this a COVID-19-neutral zone. We get enough between the news, radio, and daily life.

Anyway, long story short, we have to adapt to situations, and this pandemic has forced us into changing for ourselves and others. It is okay. This situation will get better, even though it may not seem like it. We can still learn from Plastic-Free July and similar events that happen throughout the year. We have the opportunity, every day, to reset and make small changes. Even the most minute change, such as buying less junk food or writing to your favorite company to suggest a change in packaging, can lead to bigger consequences. Now, I have mentioned before that my personal choices don’t lead to change with manufacturers, but they have affected those around me. So many of my friends have made small changes, not because they were what to do, but because I did my thing and it rubbed off on them. “Be the change.”– Dann, Kill the Complex.

Peace & Love, always!