Earth Day 2024: Planet vs. Plastics

Happy Earth Day! In honor of this year's theme, I have created the following list of suggestions and advice specifically for individuals to reduce plastic-use. Do keep in mind that preventing pollution is a group effort; industries and communities must also participate to achieve a global difference. However, it is important to do what you can, when and wherever it is possible, to continue to make this world a better place.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

First and foremost, we must revisit the old mantra: “reduce, reuse, recycle.” This motto is supposed to remind people, in descending order, of how to be sustainable in one's daily life.

• People can reduce the amount of plastic by avoiding excess packaging. Take, for example, pre-sliced foods—one can purchase a full pineapple or watermelon and cut it up themselves, thus reducing the need for plastic as a preservative.
• Reduce packaging and other waste by not engaging in fast fashion or other consumer trends: Americans alone discard about 12.8 million tons of textiles annually.
• Utilize reusable containers and utensils—not only will this limit the number of disposable containers in landfills but will also help save on water and chemicals to process these items.
• When it comes to recycling, only about nine percent of plastic is ever recycled. Glass and paper fare better in this realm; try to purchase items that are composed of materials that are easier to recycle.

Eliminate Microplastics

Microplastics are pervasive in all parts of life, though being an educated consumer can allow you to lower your risk of ingesting or inhaling these particles.

• A lot of our drinking sources are contaminated because of the plastic containers they are in. Did you know that a single tea bag can deposit nearly 12 billion microplastics into your drink? Try instead turning to loose-leaf tea, and using mugs made of ceramic, glass, or metal.
• Using the dryer breaks down microplastics-- hang clothes out to dry.
• Before drinking or using your water for cooking, boil and filter your water to eliminate up to 90% of microplastics.
• Household dust contains a lot of microplastics, originating from sources like clothing and upholstery. Be vigilant about cleaning and vacuuming to reduce the contamination in your own home.

Find Your Creativity!

Do you have experience in a field that you can combine with a hobby to be more sustainable? Implement your expertise and innovate something new! Get inspired by these ideas below!

• Gardening trends and improvements have paved the way in stormwater solutions-- try installing rain chains, rain gardens, and rain barrels!
• DIY some solar solutions for energy to diminish the reliance on fossil-fuels.
• Don't be afraid to invent! From developing fish leather alternatives to fungal-rich soil on green roofs, find new ways of increasing sustainability.
• Switch the plants on your lawn to reduce water consumption and support wildlife. Instead of grass, use native plant species, or even grow food!
• Look for unconventional ways of salvaging unwanted items, like old tires.

We can have fun while also making lasting impacts on the world. This Earth Day, find a way to prevent pollution in your own home while creating a community in the process.