This is something we really can turn around. Let's imagine a future without single use plastic. Let's make it happen one household at a time as soon as we can!

 

Video

PBS Newshour: The Plastic Problem.  This hour-long report describes the problem and current consequences during the first part and provides hope and ideas for eliminating the problem in the second part.

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Articles

1. Facts about the Pacific Garbage Patch

2. Nature.com article on microplastics 

3. UN Treaty. The UN begins work on treaty to fight global plastic pollution. 

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Resources for Reducing Plastic Use

I am not endorsing anything in particular. These are just ideas. There are competitors you can look for in many cases too.

• Product container alternatives: https://hivebrands.com/

• Replace plastic produce bags: ecoroots.com

• Grove's ideas for going beyond plastic: Grove Co

• Plastics alternatives: https://eartheasy.com/lifestyle/zero-waste/

• Plastic container alternatives: https://www.stasherbag.com/

• Plastic toothpaste and deodorant alternatives: https://bitetoothpastebits.com/

• Deodorant alternative: nativecos.com

• Hair Shampoo alternatives: Garnier Whole Blends

• Hair Conditioner:  B.O.B Conditioner

• Package Free: Package free shop

• Garbage bags: bagups.com

• 10 tips to reduce plastic use: rothys.com​

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Write Letters

Write letters to the stores you shop at to let them know how much it matters to you that they switch from using plastic packaging. For example, I wrote this letter to Trader Joe's:

 

Dear Trader Joes,

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I have been a loyal customer since you opened in the San Francisco Bay Area, but I've decided I can't shop at TJ's anymore. It will reduce the perceived quality of my life to not have you in it, but I've made a vow to myself and planet earth to greatly reduce the non-essential single-use plastics in my life.

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