One of my new year’s resolutions this year included making more intentionally environmentally-conscious choices in my day-to-day life.
For me, this meant continuing to recycle but adding plastic film recycling to the mix. Plastic film includes plastic bags, plastic wrappers, bubble wrap, and other packing. While it cannot be recycled in your home, some grocery stores and other spots will recycle it for you. I collect a bag or bundle of it at a time and then drop it off when the bag is full.
I’ve also started composting which has dramatically reduced the amount of waste I produce. I bought a freezer compost bin and, similar to the plastic film, I collect a few small bags at a time and when the freezer gets full, I drop them at a local composting site. You can compost so many things. From food scraps to tea bags to paper towels (without chemicals), a lot of the items I use often can get put right into the compost bin. And as a New Yorker, I opted for a freezer bin which doesn’t smell and attract unwanted… Uhm… “friends”.
These two changes have been easier than expected for me. But, I recognize not everyone is on board to make these kinds of changes that may take you out of your way to do extra work here and there. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t do your part.
I created a list of four items you can invest in that will help you decrease your waste without having to make special trips to drop off recyclables! I own and LOVE each of these things and, although they may be on the more expensive end, they are all highly worth the investment!
My 4 Favorite Eco-Friendly Products
1. Stojo Cup
The Stojo cup is a great way to reduce your single-use items. This cup collapses down to the size of a hockey puck and can easily be slipped into a backpack or purse. Toss it in your bag when you're heading out the door and you’ll never have to use a paper Starbucks cup ever again. Most coffeehouses also give you a discount if you bring your own reusable cup! Stojo also makes collapsible food storage items that I swear by. They are microwave-safe silicone and seal tightly, so you never have to worry about leakage. They are a sturdy and space-conscious investment.
2. Collapsible Straw
Similar to the collapsible cup, a reusable straw is a simple way to cut down on your waste. A lot of cafes and restaurants only offer straws now if you request them, but bringing your own saves you the trouble! Buying one that’s collapsible or comes with a case helps you keep your purse or pocket safe from a used straw (and saves your straw from the mystery contents of your purse/pocket).
3. Reusable Silverware Kit
I love my reusable silverware kit from Joseph Joseph. It has a fork, knife, and spoon and comes in a very convenient silicone sleeve. I always have it tucked away in my bag or packed with my lunch. Plastic cutlery is everywhere and is one of the largest sources of waste since they get disposed of after just one use. Investing in a silverware kit (and committing to using it) is one of the best ways to cut down on a popular single-use item.
4. Stasher Bags
This is another investment that is worth the price tag. Stasher bags might be on the more expensive end when it comes to reusable bags, but these are the best ones out there. They are high-grade silicone and are microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe. You can even steam veggies or pop popcorn right in them. They are perfect for food storage but also can be used as toiletry bags, ice packs, and so many other ways. They are very easy to wash and air dry, which I know is a hesitation for many people. This is another fantastic switch to make if you are looking to reduce your waste.
While I realize not everyone may be in a place to invest in products like these, you can still make conscious choices to move in that direction. Make your own silverware kit, use plastic bags more than once, or have a drink without a straw.
The whole point of these items is to lower your use of single-use plastics and products but regardless, I challenge you to think reusable, not disposable! These four products make that easy, but in the end, refusing or using fewer single-use items is a great goal to have.
Comment below if you’re with me on this goal!