Our July Jell-O Quest is to go plastic-free in July, so we've been trying to live a zero-waste life through the 5Rs movement, first proposed by environmentalist Bea Johnson.
- Refuse
- Reduce
- Recycle Recycle
- Reuse Reuse
- Rot
The first thing I did was start using a tumbler. I took a tumbler instead of a disposable cup for my drinks at cafes. I feel like I have to have at least one cup of coffee a day (caffeine...addiction...?) I usually get a disposable cup because I get takeout, but in July, I diligently got my coffee in a tumbler. I probably saved 30 disposable cups a month!
Secondly, I tried to avoid accepting single-use products whenever possible. When I was packing salads, ordering food for delivery, I would subconsciously check the box to accept single-use products. I cut them off with a knife! I used my own cutlery and forks.
This is a great tip: when packing for a trip, the Rush Notwrap is really handy. Unlike regular travel pouches, they're adjustable to fit different volumes, so you can make efficient use of space, and they also help keep your clothes in shape while traveling in your suitcase.
Lastly, if you have no choice but to use plastic, I think it's important to separate it properly, as this not only reduces the amount of trash in the trash, but also allows you to recycle it.
Honestly, it seemed like a hassle at first, but when I actually did it, I felt proud of myself for protecting the environment, and I realized that even small actions like this can make a big difference if many people participate, so I kept trying. So now I'm trying to make it a habit.
Plastic-free life, we want everyone to join us :-)