As we participate in Plastic Free July this year, the MADE SAFE team is considering ways that we can refuse single-use plastic and reduce the amount of plastic we consume in general. Plastic pollution causes an enormous number of problems for oceans, freshwater ecosystems, our food systems, and our communities. At MADE SAFE, we understand the far-reaching problems of plastic—everything from endocrine disruption to a lack of biodegradability, and many more issues in between. For this reason, MADE SAFE certification does not permit the use of single-use plastic in any certified products and we also highlight brands that use sustainable packaging for their products.
Wherever you are on your Plastic Free journey, we hope that these six tips will help you along the way and inspire you to seek out new and creative ways to tackle the plastic pollution problem right in your own home.
1. Bring reusable grocery and produce bags to the grocery store.
If you haven’t made the switch, this is a really great place to start!
2. Ditch the plastic wipes, which are a huge source of plastic waste.
Search out options made with natural materials like cotton. Shop MADE SAFE certified wipes.
3. Choose products packaged in glass, bamboo, or other innovative packaging.
And remember, “compostable” plastic is still plastic! Learn about MADE SAFE certified products with sustainable packaging.
4. Replace plastic water bottles.
Swap your reusable and single-use plastic water bottles with glass or stainless-steel, such as MADE SAFE certified Pura Stainless bottles.
5. Retool the toothbrush.
Shop for one that is either made out of natural materials, like responsibly-sourced bamboo, or one that will at least provide you with the most mileage while consuming the least amount of plastic (like toothbrushes that only require replacement of the heads).
6. Invest in a reusable set of travel utensils.
Look into a portable bamboo or stainless steel flatware set, and a straw (now available in paper, stainless steel and silicone) to carry with you whenever you are out and about.
We hope you will consider joining us in exploring the ways that we can reduce our plastic footprint and live a little lighter on this planet we call home.