6 Simple Plastic Free Swaps for 2023

As we begin 2023, it’s a good time to reflect on our habits and consider ways we can reduce our impact on the environment. One small but significant way that we can make a difference is by reducing our plastic usage. Here are a few ideas for how you can do your part in reducing plastic in the coming year, and make your New Years resolution an eco-resolution.

Use Produce Bags

Instead of using plastic bags to bring your fruit and veg home from the shop, try using reusable produce bags. These are made from fabric or mesh which can be easily washed and be used over and over again. Not only will this reduce your plastic use, but if you store your produce in them too, it can help your food stay fresher for longer.

Use a Wooden Toothbrush

According to estimates, about 3.6 billion toothbrushes are thrown away in the United Kingdom each year. This is a significant amount of waste, as most toothbrushes are made of plastic and take hundreds of years to break down in landfills. In addition to the environmental impact, the production of plastic toothbrushes also requires the use of fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change. A more eco-friendly alternative is to switch to a toothbrush made of bamboo or beech wood, both highly renewable resources. These wooden toothbrushes are just as effective as plastic ones and the handle can be composted once they reach the end of their lifespan, where it will return back to nature.

Try Toothpaste Tablets

Whilst we’re on the subject of brushing, another easy way to reduce plastic is switching to toothpaste tablets. Whilst traditional toothpaste comes in plastic tubes, which are very difficult to recycle, toothpaste tablets come in easily recyclable packaging, such as tins and jars. They’re really easy to use too, simply chew the tablets and brush as normal. And if mint isn’t your thing, you can get them in exciting flavours like raspberry or orange (which taste delicious by the way!).

Switch to Glass or Metal Containers

Plastic tubs are great for storing food and leftovers, but glass or stainless steel containers and jars are just as good, and can be easily recycled if they get damaged. Unlike their plastic counterparts, these containers won’t leach harmful chemicals into your food, and they won’t discolour when you store your tomato based sauces in them! They are so much more hygienic and look great in your kitchen too.

Use a Reusable Water Bottle

Single-use plastic water bottles are a major contributor to plastic waste. To reduce your plastic use, try taking a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go. Look for a bottle made of stainless steel or another durable material to ensure it lasts for years to come. Not only will you be reducing your plastic use, you will also save money, as water from the tap is far cheaper than bottled water. If you like to filter your water, you should consider using some plastic free charcoal water filters too.

Switch to Shampoo Bars

Shampoo and conditioner often come in single use plastic bottles, adding more unnecessary plastic into our lives. A more sustainable option is to switch to shampoo bars. These solid bars of shampoo are easy to use, long-lasting, and come in a variety of formulas for different hair types. They’re usually packaged in a recyclable cardboard box with no plastic in sight. If you’ve tried shampoo bars before and not got on with them, you should definitely check out ecoLiving’s range – they’re a new style, soap free bar that is a lot more like traditional shampoo, and also helps to condition too!

By making a few small changes to your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your plastic usage in the coming year. Together, we can make a difference in protecting the environment and reducing plastic waste.