LOG INOn Earth Day we're reminded of many sustainability issues around the world, but this year we're putting the spotlight on plastic pollution. In this blog post, we highlight the problems caused by plastic pollution and some of the changes we can make to our individual lifestyles to help build a more sustainable world together.
Plastic Pollution: The Facts
Decades of poor waste management policies continue to result in global plastic waste being dumped in the ocean. Plastic pollution is one of the most important environmental issues in the world; impacting climate change, wildlife and, ultimately, our health & wellbeing. We must work to reduce and ultimately end plastic pollution.
Here are some pretty shocking statistics that we should all be aware of:
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8.3 Billion Metric Tons of virgin plastic has been produced globally to date
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Only 9% of plastic waste is recycled globally
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12% has been incinerated
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79% has accumulated in landfills
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12 Billion metric tons will enter landfills if current production/consumption continues
Did you know?
There are 5 massive patches of marine plastic - the one between California & Hawaii is the size of the state of Texas.
Microplastics
When plastic breaks down due to exposure to water sun or other elements, they can break into tiny pieces (fragments less than 5 mm in length) - these are everywhere. According to Earth.org, there are 500 times more microplastics in the world than stars in our galaxy, a clear sign that the plastic pollution epidemic has spun out of control. Not only are microplastics damaging to marine life and wildlife, but plastics often contain phthalates - which are harmful to human hormones & reproductive systems.
Microplastic may be found in your…
Drinking water
Table salt
Fish-based meals
Tips to reduce your plastic usage
Refuse
It is important, wherever possible to refuse plastic - think twice next time you’re in a supermarket or grabbing a takeaway lunch; is that plastic bag or polystyrene container really needed?
Reduce
The earthday plastic pollution primer is full of ways to reduce plastic consumption, see link HERE.
Remove
Plastic / litter clean-ups are a great way to get involved in plastic removal so it can be safely disposed of. The Purdy & Figg team is volunteering today (on Earth Day) to help clean up the waters of London.
Recycle
Check your local recycling centre for detailed info:
Reuse
Swap plastic bags for reusable tote bags and, if you already have plastic bottles try opting for refillable products (you could even use our concentrates in an old bottle!). Rather than buying a new outfit for a special occasion, why not host a clothes swap with friends?
How we can help?
Volunteer
Join the Purdy & Figg team in causes such as the Great Global Cleanup Initiative - check out our Instagram stories highlights reel for how we’re getting involved!
Calculate
Use the Plastic Pollution Calculator and pledge to reduce your plastic intake over the next year.
Replace
Use refillable and reusable products as much as possible, such as refillable water bottles, coffee cups & cleaning products!
Donate
Join us in donating to Earthday.Org, which aims to diversify, educate and activate the environmental movement worldwide.
Our Plastic-Free shopping list
Beeswax Wraps Co.
Reusable food wraps to replace cling film, with vegan options available too!
Ohelo Bottles
Aluminium bottles and cups to replace single-use plastic bottles and coffee cups.
King Bag
Sustainable & stylish bags made from recycled plastic bottles - it’s a win, win!
Wild & Stone
Sustainable swaps for daily essentials, including bamboo toothbrushes and picnic cutlery.
Seep
Plastic-free and biodegradable cleaning cloths, sponges & other cleaning tools.
