It is that time of year again. Plastic-Free July is in full-swing. Even though there aren’t many plastic-free package options, regarding food, available in my area I am going to do my best to limit the amount of plastic packaging brought in (as always, medical necessities do not count). I should note, while we’re on the subject of medicine, if you have a disability that requires you to use single-use plastic items, this may not be a challenge you can participate in. That is okay. You should never feel shame nor guilt, and you shouldn’t be bullied by ableists.

I’ve found it so much easier to see where the faults regarding manufacturing and uses of packaging, and how many seemingly single-use products really aren’t, when I try to eliminate the purchasing of anything containing plastic. Companies need to do better. Instead of focusing on a single item, it’s important to realize the impact of all packaging materials (especially plastics) on the environment. Since many of us are removed from having to face the issues plastics create, it can be difficult to remember that every piece matters. That’s not to say that participating and acknowledging the issue with plastics absolves us from other things that negatively impact the planet. We, globally, need to focus and take care of this planet. Nature has an amazing way of healing itself…How long before it is unable to? How much damage do we have to inflict before we act and save Earth?

Speaking of saving the planet, have you noticed that, in media there is huge a focus on oceans and ocean life? The thing is, it’s not just the oceans, and creatures that live there, that are being affected. Plastic also negatively impacts forests, deserts, all of their inhabitants…Imagine eating something you assume is food. You eat, start to feel ill, aren’t sure why, and eventually you are starving (even though you’ve eaten), and die a slow and painful death. This is the reality for so many. A study based in Italy found that microplastics in human placentas (Ragusa et al., 2021). For further reading, I suggest taking a look at the work referenced within this study. You can also find out more information regarding microplastics found in humans by searching for scientific, peer-reviewed studies. Whatever you do, don’t head to Wikipedia nor other similar outlets. I digress…

My fiancé picked up some yogurt at the farmers market and some things for himself. I’m only counting mine since he does not participate. Anyway, the pastries were all in paper/cardboard. I absolutely love Yallaziters‘ products. For the price you’d think they would use alternative packaging, especially since they do use glass on occasion. Next time I go I’ll bring it up– Enough time has passed that, per the CDC, I can go out, but I haven’t felt up to it. He also got boba (something I’ve been craving for a couple of months). Unfortunately, unlike Starbucks, the boba place nearby is not back to accepting personal cups just yet.

I often get asked whether or not it’s frustrating that my he does not participate in Plastic-Free July. For me, the level of frustration varies, but I’m not going to push anything onto him nor force him to take part. Honestly, with the state of the world, part of me understands the increase in the use of plastic packaging. Prior, I would have had a much different response. I just wish there were better methods that we could all use to get the most out of it. Same with the use of plastics in exfoliating products, like face wash, and in food items like gum.

Plastic Waste for Weeks 1-2

1 Trenta Starbucks Cup + Lid

1 Styrofoam Plate

1 Pita Chip Clamshell Container

6 Plastic Tubs of Yogurt

1 Large Plastic Cup (boba)

Resources and References

Center for Biological Diversity. (2022). Ocean plastics: A global tragedy for our oceans and sea life. https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/campaigns/ocean_plastics/

Ragusa, A., Svelato, A., Santacroce, C., Catalano, P., Notarstefano, V., Carnevali, O., Papa, F., Rongioletti, M. C. A., Baiocco, F., Draghi, S., D’Amore, E., Rinaldo, D., Matta, M., & Giorgini, E. (2021). Plasticenta: First evidence of microplastics in human placenta. In Environment International (Vol. 146, p. 106-274). Elsevier BV. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2020.106274

Wadhwa, S. (2019). What is the effect of plastics in forests and wildlife? Purpose Rising. https://blog.repurpose.global/what-is-the-effect-of-plastic-in-forests-and-wildlife/

Yeoman, B. (2019). A plague of plastics. Conservation. https://www.nwf.org/Home/Magazines/National-Wildlife/2019/June-July/Conservation/Ocean-Plastic