It’s easy to be overwhelmed when you want to make more sustainable choices. There is so much information out there, where do you even start? How about the trash can?
Every day, the average American produces 4.4 pounds of trash and 30% of that comes from packaging. That’s over 450 pounds of trash that you can keep out of landfills with painless swaps.
At the store
- More companies are getting on board with sustainable packaging. Pick brands with less packaging or products in recycled, recyclable, or biodegradable packaging. You can even find packaging with seeds inside for you to gift!
- Choose loose fruits and vegetables. Try reusable produce bags to skip the plastic.
- Buy staples in bulk. If you live on campus, find a few friends to split with.
- Bring your own containers or bags when you can.
Online
- When placing your order, let the store know you want less packaging and less plastic in the notes section. You can even request a reused box. Many small retailers are happy to help!
At home
- Reuse packaging when you can like shopping bags or gift wrap.
- Packing something up? Reuse a box and pad it with shredded paper, recycled newspaper, or even popcorn!
Story by Alexandra Hill
Image via Bluehair