On average, Australians use 130 kg of plastic per person each year. That’s a lot of plastic. And only 12% of that’s recycled, which means that up to 130,000 tonnes of plastic will find its way into our waterways and into the ocean.
While the idea of going plastic-free can seem overwhelming, the good news is that any action you take to reduce the amount you use — despite how inconsequential it may seem — will in fact make a worthwhile difference. A million people making a small change to reduce their plastic use is better than three people doing it perfectly.
Starting with one area of your life or room in your home is an accessible way to tackle it, and the bathroom is a great place to start as there are now plastic-free options for many beauty and personal care essentials. Instead of throwing everything away and starting again, begin to phase in plastic-free items each time something needs replacing.
Also, be sure to look for TerraCycle drop-off locations in order to make sure the products you’re getting rid of aren’t going to landfill and are recycled appropriately.
Aim to Buy Package-Free Products
Generally speaking, to go plastic-free, always try to buy solid, packaging-free beauty products for essentials wherever you can. I love NueBar‘s range of shampoos, conditioners, face washes, body washes and exfoliators. They tick a lot of other boxes, too, as they are also palm oil-free, handmade, vegan and cruelty-free.
Swap Out Your Deodorant
Switch your aerosol or plastic roll-on deodorant to a plastic-free one. There are brands such as Biode doing natural deodorant formulations that are packaged in home compostable and biodegradable cardboard packaging or aluminium tins, which can be reused or popped in your recycling when you finish with them. Kind-ly is also made from natural ingredients and doesn’t have any aluminium, paraben or alcohol.
Switch Out Your Toothbrush and Floss
Plastic toothbrushes and dental floss can be switched out for biodegradable versions. There are natural and sustainable alternatives, including floss made from corn starch coated in candelilla wax, and toothbrushes made from sustainable bamboo that can be disposed of in your home compost when you’re done. With over one billion non-recyclable plastic toothbrushes thrown away every year, it’s a simple switch that can have a big impact.
Pick Different Toilet Paper
Choose toilet paper that’s plastic-free. Who Gives A Crap is an environmentally-friendly option that’s conveniently and effortlessly ordered online and delivered (plastic-free) straight to your front door. Plus, the brand donate profits to build toilets in the developing world.
Stop Using Disposable Razors
Billions of disposable razors end up in landfill every year, and because modern shaving cartridges contain so much rubber and plastic, they’re not recyclable either. A reusable safety razor is a one-off investment that will actually save you money in the long run as the razor itself will last forever and the blades are inexpensive and recyclable. Not to mention, they also come in sleek finishes like matte black, rose gold and gold so they look amazing in your bathroom.
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