It's undeniable that plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental challenges of our time. From single-use plastics to micro-plastics in our oceans, the impact is widespread. The good news? With small, actionable steps, we can all play a part in reducing plastic waste. A fascinating quote from The Royal Institution on the controversially titled sustainability seminar : "Why we will never have a plastic-free world", that resinated with us at MGR.

"A product being Recyclable| Reusable | Compostable - Doesn't actually matter unless it's Recycled, Reused or Composted" 

It shifted our perspective away from the product, and more to the consumer. So with that in mind, here’s how you can make a difference.

Firstly, Why Is Reducing Plastic Usage Important?

Plastics are everywhere. They’re highly convenient and effective, but when mistreated incredibly harmful to the planet. Consider these facts:

• Over 300 million tons of plastic are produced each year, and half is single-use.

• 8 million tons end up in the oceans annually, harming marine life and ecosystems.

• Plastics take hundreds of years to decompose, leaving a long-lasting legacy of waste.

Taking responsibility for your consumable habits, and reducing plastic usage not only protects wildlife but also decreases carbon emissions associated with plastic production and disposal.

4 Easy Alternatives to Traditional Plastic Products.

1. Switch to Reusable Bags

• Use cotton, cloth or jute bags for shopping instead of plastic ones. 

• Keep a foldable reusable bag handy for spontaneous purchases.

• Pro Tip: Not using reusable shopping bags is counter productive, consider building a shopping routine that makes the storage, usage and return of 'Bags for Life' easier.

2. Invest in Refillable Personal Care Products

• Opt for products like My Green Routine’s subscription based Hair & Body Bars, designed to reduce plastic waste without compromising on quality.

• Pro Tip: Ensure that your refillable products come with eco-friendly packaging, like our stylish and sustainable plastic free packaging. 

3. Ditch Single-Use Bottles and Straws

• Carry a stainless steel or glass water bottle.

• Replace plastic straws with bamboo, paper, or metal alternatives.

• Pro Tip: 1.5L is estimated to be the optimal sized water bottle.

4. Upgrade Your Kitchen Supplies

• Use beeswax wraps instead of plastic wrap and switch to plastic food storage bags with glass containers.

• Choose wooden or bamboo utensils.

• Pro Tip: If you're still using Teflon, you're destroying your hormones. Switch out to cast iron or stainless steel pans.

3 Policies and Strategies to Combat Plastic Pollution

Governments and organisations are stepping up, but more can be done. Here are some impactful strategies that we've heard about across the world:

1. Bans on Single-Use Plastics

• Many countries have outlawed items like plastic bags, cutlery, and plates.
  Support businesses that comply with these policies.

• Read More: 

  Italy creates Europe's first plastic-free ski resort

2. Encourage Recycling Programs

• Advocate for better recycling infrastructure and education.

• Ensure your household or business properly sorts waste.

• Read More: Our Blog Post on Bali's Need For Better Waste Management & Supporting Post.

3. Promote Producer Responsibility

• Companies should take responsibility for their plastic waste. We, for example, uses sustainable materials that are designed to last up to 3x longer than plastic alternatives, minimising its environmental impact.

4 Everyday Habits for Individuals to Reduce Plastic Use

1. Say No to Plastic Packaging

• Buy loose produce instead of pre-packaged options.

• Support zero-waste stores where you can bring your containers.

2. Host Plastic-Free Challenges

• Challenge yourself to go a day, week, or month without using disposable plastics.

• Share your progress online to inspire others.

3. Repair, Don’t Replace

• Fix broken items instead of buying new ones made from plastic.

4. Educate and Inspire Friends

• Lead by example and initiate conversations about your motivations

• Use your passion to create a shared mission towards change.

Our Role at My Green Routine

We’re committed to helping individuals and businesses reduce their environmental impact. From refillable personal care products to sustainable travel kits, we provide high-quality solutions that are both practical and eco-friendly. Whether you’re looking for everyday products or bulk options for your business, we’ve got you covered.

A Podcast Must Listen 

Check out an excerpt from a conversation on the EcoPodcast where they dive into our brand purpose, mission and vision.