The number of plastic bags used is increasing, while the recycling rates remain low. However, waste is at an all time high. The production of plastic bags has a reduced environmental impact compared to paper bags. However, with an increasing amount of plastic bags being littered around cities, and ending up in landfills, they aren’t really doing much good for the environment either.
The only solution to the ever-increasing plastic bag problem is to reduce waste as much as possible, which can be done effectively through recycling. Nevertheless, by reducing the amount of plastic bags you use, and reusing them multiple times, the huge gap between plastic bag usage and recycling can be bridged even further!
Tips to Reduce Plastic Bag Use
By this, we do not mean avoid using plastic bags, but rather use them responsibly. While plastic bags provide numerous benefits to both consumers and retailers, it does not change the fact they have some drawbacks as well. And, as citizens of the Earth, it’s our responsibility to ensure we do whatever possible to avoid them.
Here’s how you can:
Educate Yourself about the Impact Plastic Bags Have on Our World
You simply cannot find a solution without properly understanding of the problem. Plastic bags are causing serious problems right now and it’s important you know what they are. Go through the chapter “The Plastic Bag Problem” (if you haven’t already) for more information. It’s also recommended you learn some facts about plastic bag consumption, including their environmental impact, so that you know how they affect us all.
Reuse or Recycle Plastic Bags at Home
Everybody has plastic bags at home. However, don’t just let them accumulate in your kitchen cabinets. Reuse them as many times as possible such as to line garbage cans and store meat in the refrigerator.
You can also recycle plastic bags at your local recycling center, grocery store, or drop-off location. Alternatively, you could simply opt for skip bin hire sydney or elsewhere, and the plastic waste will most likely be delivered to the recycling center. Plastic bags are 100 percent recyclable and will help save energy, reduce oil consumption, and reduce waste!
Shop at Stores that Offer a Cash Credit for Bringing Your Own Bags
In an effort to encourage the reuse of plastic bags, several stores offer cash credits to customers who bring their own. Therefore, find and shop at these stores, because not only will you be able to reduce the amount of plastic bags you use, you might even get a discount!
Count the Amount of Plastic Bags Brought into Your Household
When you see the waste for yourself and understand the difference one household can make, you can feel good about the positive impact you are making. So, count the number of plastic bags entering your household every week, and reuse and recycle them in order to reduce the impact they have on our environment.
