Skip the Packaging
40% of all the plastic produced each year is made for just one purpose: Single-use packaging. All those plastic containers, shrink wrap, bubble wrap... add up to a big impact. If you choose products with less packaging, buy in bulk and use reusable containers when you can, you will reduce plastic waste and make an impact!!
Your Impact
Action Steps & Tips
Introduction
Luckily, many stores and manufacturers are starting to pay attention and there are now many more sustainable options. By paying attention to packaging at the store, bringing your own reusable containers when you can and buying in bulk, you can reduce plastic waste, protect ocean habitats and conserve precious resources.
1Choose less packaging
Choose items with less packaging. Before you buy something, notice how much plastic packaging it has. If two products are equally good, consider choosing the one with less plastic or less packaging in general.
Make the trip to the store. In recent years it’s become easier than ever to order things online and have them delivered. This is great for stuff that you can’t get nearby, but if you’re ordering things that you could easily pick up locally while you're out and about, the packaging (and delivery impact) can start adding up. A few rules to follow:
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The best option - pick it up at a nearby store
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If you need it delivered, have it delivered from a local store
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For all deliveries, try to put everything in the same order so it all gets delivered at the same time (having five deliveries for 10 items… you get the picture)
Go circular! Some retailers are starting to offer common products in completely reusable containers. Once you use up the bottle, you can bring it back and it’ll be refilled for the next customer! Look out for retailers working with circular companies like Loop. This is an example of what’s known as a “circular economy.” Check out our What is a Circula Economy Action for more info!
2Buy more at a time
Buy in bulk. One great way to avoid extra packaging is to buy in bulk. The more you buy at a time, the less packaging it uses. Some items to consider buying in bulk include things that have a longer shelf life like shampoo, cereal, and peanut butter. Buying in bulk also saves money!
Be careful to buy only what you need. It’s easy to go a bit overboard with buying in bulk! Before you take advantage of that deep bulk discount, make sure you will be able to use everything you buy. Things like toilet paper and canned foods are pretty safe, but for perishable items like produce, think about your meal plan for the week and if you will use it all. For more tips, check out our Make a Meal Plan Action.
3Bring your reusable containers
Bring your own container. Many stores now allow you to bring your own reusable containers to fill up with staples like olive oil, flour, rice, and even shampoo. This is an awesome way to cut back on your plastic waste, and it’s often pretty cheap! Many stores, particularly health food markets, offer at least some bulk purchasing options. Find stores near you that are going even further with expanded options here.