Go Plastic Free?!
Did you know that just because you put your plastic into the recycling bin, it isn’t always recycled? The rate of actual recycling your household plastics could be as low as 14% according to the Plastic Free July Website. Since I became aware of this fact, I have to admit, I’ve been a little lax about washing out my plastic and throwing it into my recycle bin.
To be honest with ya’ll, I tried to go all in and take the Plastic Free July challenge but, I’m failing miserably…ok, that might be a little dramatic. I think my biggest struggle is eliminating take out containers. I guess I just need to nip that in the bud (for more reason than one) or support restaurants that don’t use plastic takeout containers.
As I wrap my mind around my reduction of plastic consumption, I have found three ways you can support Plastic Free July if you’re not ready to go whole hog!
Houston Zoo
support the Houston Zoo
I love the Houston Zoo, so much so, that I sometimes forget that they are more than just entertaining educators, they are conservationists. This year in conjunction with Plastic Free July, the Houston Zoo announced they are eliminating single use plastics in the gift shop and is the fist zoo nationwide to do so. It almost has become cliche that plastics harm sea turtles, but did you know that the Houston Zoo retrieved and treated over 100 sea turtles last year due to plastic related injuries? Reducing the plastics we use, matters right here in our own backyard.
Don’t live in Houston? Next time you’re at your local zoo, ask about what they are doing to reduce single use plastic and share this with them! To read more (and plan your next visit) click below!
Beautycounter
Beautycounter’s new packing collection program
As a registered B Corp, Beautycounter has always had a triple bottom line; holding people, planet and profit in equal value. Many people (myself included) did not realize that the packaging of beauty products is very difficult to be recycled due to its small size and or multi material components, think pumps and tubes. Not only do these components end up in landfills but it also increases the cost of processing for your community recycling programs.
Beginning this July, Beautycounter has partnered with the Pact Collective for a new packaging collection program. It’s super easy, Beautycounter is covering the collection and recycling cost, all you have to do is pay $5 for shipping. Plus if you are lucky enough to live close to one of Beautycounter’s retail locations, you can drop it off there free of charge!
Read more and print out your shipping label here:
Just Say No!
plastic free july just Say No to the Top 4
Plastic Bags
Plastic Water Bottles
Take Away Coffee Cups
Plastic Straws
What do you think will have the biggest impact? Let me know and share your best tips in the comments below! Remember its all about progress not perfection!