How to Stop Plastic Pollution

Start in your own home in order to help stop plastic pollution.

Mountains of plastic litters our landscapes and oceans. Scientists have noted that it will take far beyond our lifetimes for this plastic to erode. Not only is plastic an eyesore, but it can also have detrimental health effects on the plants and animals around us, and even on ourselves. Though a lot of effort needs to occur on a wide-scale, you can still help stop plastic pollution and make a difference.

Instructions

1. Don't contribute to the problem. Carry reusable cloth or paper bags to the store.

2. Recycle the plastic that you do have to use. Containers and packaging that is made from plastic can be recycled. Sort and put out used plastic with your regular garbage, your city has programs that can re-use and reduce the waste of plastic goods.

3. Stop buying beverages. Use a water bottle that is refillable. Purchase soda in cans that are easily recyclable.

4. Purchase less packaging. Buy fresh veggies and fruits that you can store without the extra wrapping.

5. Organize a local clean-up with your friends and family. Picking up the litter around you can be a lot of fun, and you may inspire the same types of actions in others.

Tips & Warnings

• Think about the ways you use plastic everyday. Develop ways to avoid using more.

References

• Algaita: What you can do about plastic pollution
• BCB: Prevent Plastic Pollution

Resources

• Bay Nature: Plastic pollution in the ocean and what you can do