Waging war on single-use plastic
Whether for storing leftovers, wrapping sandwiches or squirting soy sauce on sushi, plastic has become a ubiquitous part of our food and drink consumption habits.
Plastic is convenient and versatile but how we produce, use and discard it causes immense harm to human and animal health – particularly marine life – and other ecosystems.
Plastics break down into microplastics and release toxic, carcinogenic chemicals into food and water sources and the air we breathe. It’s why Earth Day 2024 in April focused on plastic’s environmental damage and called for significant reductions in the world’s plastic production and use.
Plastic and public attitudes
The message about the dangers of plastic appears to be getting through. A recent YouGov survey found that 78 per cent of Australians are concerned about the use of plastic in Australia. At 81 per cent, even more are worried about plastic use globally.
The survey found that 71 per cent of Aussies carry reusable shopping bags and 51 per cent carry a reusable bottle or cup. More on the reusable cups a bit later.
South Australia’s war on single-use plastics
In 2020, the South Australian Parliament legislated a staged ban on single-use plastics – the first of its kind in Australia. We no longer see items on sale like plastic straws, pizza savers and cutlery. One of the products to be banned in the next phase on 1 September 2024 is single-use plastic beverage cups and lids, such as takeaway coffee cups.
You may have noticed recently that your takeaway coffee is often in a plant-based compostable cup, which can be placed in the organics waste bin. It’s a big improvement but their production still consumes energy and resources. The good news is there’s an even better way.
What’s this simple step we mentioned?
If you have some time up your sleeve, why not sit down and enjoy your coffee at the cafe? You can relax and get ready for your day ahead, or read the paper, and not have to use a cup that’ll end up in the bin.
If you’re in a hurry, bring along a reusable cup for when you order your favourite brew. Reusable coffee cups are readily available, and you can buy one for a few dollars or opt for a fancier, leakproof version.
RAA Sustainability Specialist Lisa Hall says reusable coffee cups are a simple way to reduce waste and do our bit for the environment.
“Many cafes encourage you to bring your own cup and you can even keep a collapsible version in your car or bag as a backup,” she says.
Other ways to reduce your plastic use
It’s easier than you might think to reduce your plastic use at home and taking reusable grocery bags is now part of the supermarket ritual. But don’t ruin your good intentions at the produce aisle. Avoid buying fruit and veg pre-packed in plastic; it’s better, and cheaper, to select them yourself and place them in a reusable produce bag.
“Buying everyday products like shampoo and detergent in bulk and refilling them is a simple way to reduce plastic,” Lisa says. “You can also buy loose food like nuts and rice without plastic, either at your local supermarket or bulk food store.”
“If you need single-use items, choose non-plastic, compostable alternatives wherever possible. Look out for the certified compostable icon on the packaging.”
Check here for more ideas on reducing your plastic use.