This Zero Waste Week we’re raising awareness about ways you can preserve common resources during the Covid-19 pandemic, to help stop unnecessary and harmful waste travelling into our Ocean as well as save money in the long run. Read on to find out how:
Use Reusable Masks
A lot of us are using disposable masks right now but have you thought about getting a re-useable one? When disposing of single-use masks, many have ended up in our Ocean and pose a potential threat to our wildlife. The strings on disposable masks have caused Sea animals to get caught up in them, resulting in potential injuries or choking hazards. If you have no choice but to wear a disposable, make sure you cut the strings and dispose of it properly when you’re done.
Reusable masks on the other hand are super easy to use – just a quick wash with your clothes and you’re able to continue wearing them over and over again without having to keep buying more masks. Not only do they help the environment massively but there are so many amazing designs available to choose from!
Avoid Overbuying Wasteful Food and Packaging
It may be tempting to stock up on all the food you can during this time to avoid several trips to the shop, however, take into consideration your environmental impact before you buy. Avoid overbuying foods that are perishable – especially if they come in non-recyclable packaging. Instead, opt for buying more tinned goods and items you can freeze that will last longer.
Foods, such as fruit and vegetables, that are wrapped in plastic may also be a tempting purchase during this time. However, remember that the single use plastics they come in can be incredibly harmful to our environment as they can sometime take up to 20 years or more to break down. Instead, try to buy unwrapped food and wash it when you get home. This will not only save you money, but it will massively help the environment from the risk of harmful plastics making their way into our Ocean.
Use Sustainable Cleaning Products
Did you know it can sometimes take disinfectant wipes the same amount of time as certain plastics to break down? So often they end up in our Ocean, especially when they are flushed down the loo, which results in many of our Ocean animals mistaking them for their natural jellyfish prey. It’s best to avoid these completely when cleaning your home by using reusable rags and bottles of cleaner instead. Your Ocean will thank you for it and you’ll save money in the process, it’s a win-win!
Looking for more ways to reduce waste during this time? Check out our Plastic Free July blog here