By Mr. Vijender Reddy Muthyala, CEO, DrinkPrime
Each year, our planet suffers from the burden of human-generated waste, mainly from plastic waste. Shockingly, according to research, humans produce over 350 million metric tons of plastic waste annually – a staggering volume. What’s even more alarming is the projection by experts: without policy changes, this figure could triple by 2060, reaching almost one billion metric tons of plastic waste!
While we share our planet with countless animals who coexist without disrupting their environment, humans are leaving more than just footprints behind. Plastic waste, in particular, has become a huge problem impacting the health of our planet and the organisms that exist on this planet with us.
This is why it is our responsibility to break this vicious cycle. Reducing our plastic footprint is essential for a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment. Here are some easy hacks you can practice at home to reduce your plastic footprint:
Opt for reusable bottles: Invest in a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce plastic waste. Stainless steel or glass bottles are durable, easy to clean, and a safer, eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic.
Invest in a water purifier: Opt for a water purifier over bottled water made of plastic for safe drinking. Why? Because water purifiers use advanced filtration technology to remove impurities and contaminants. This gives you clean, safe, and healthy drinking water without the need for disposable bottles. Plus you do not have to worry about microplastics in your water!
Use glass containers: Swap out plastic containers for glass ones when storing food. Glass containers are a lifesaver– they keep your meals safe without any chemicals or microplastics seeping into your food. Plus, they’re sturdy and easy to clean, meaning you can use them again and again!
Shop smart: Plan your grocery trips with sustainability in mind. Choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging, opting for items packaged in cardboard or paper whenever possible. Take advantage of nature’s perfect packaging by selecting fruits and vegetables that are not wrapped in plastic!
Say no to plastic bags: The truth is plastic shopping bags contribute significantly to plastic pollution. Carry a reusable cloth or jute bag for your next shopping or grocery trip.
Make bulk purchases: When you buy items in bulk, you’re not just saving money; you’re also reducing your single-use plastic consumption. By purchasing larger quantities of products like grains, nuts, and cereals, you minimise the need for individually packaged items, ultimately reducing plastic waste in your home.
Spread awareness: The power of education is severely underrated! Educate your friends and family about the impact of single-use plastics and encourage them to adopt reusable alternatives.
Support eco-friendly brands: Look for businesses and restaurants in your community that are putting efforts into reducing their plastic footprint. Show your support by purchasing from and endorsing eco-friendly businesses and products.
Yes, plastic pollution is on the rise, but it’s a challenge we can overcome. By making these simple yet powerful changes, you’re not just reducing your plastic footprint – you’re laying the groundwork for a cleaner, brighter future for generations ahead. So take action now, not just on #EarthDay, but every day.
