Do you want to help reduce plastic pollution? If so, now's the perfect time to start and make a pledge to reduce your use of single-use plastics.
At Zero Waste Providence, we are committed to fighting plastic waste. We would love to see all single-use plastics banned, including plastic bags, utensils, straws, and, worst of all, the terrible styrofoam containers. We work indefatigably (and for free) to achieve this goal because plastic recycling doesn't work and will never work!
Millions of people have joined Plastic Free July since it was launched in 2011. Will you be next?
Take the Pesky Plastics Quiz to find out how you can make a difference. Don't despair if you don't reach absolutely zero. Unfortunately, current practices make that goal almost impossible. But, every little counts! The important thing is that you reduce single-use plastics as much as you can without giving up.
Remember:
We don’t need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly, we need millions of people doing it imperfectly.
What are you going to do? Here are some ideas:
Refuse single-use cups at coffeeshops. If you are enjoying your beverage at the café, simply ask for a reusable cup or mug or bring your own! Some businesses in Providence are doing a great job encouraging the use of reusable cups. For example, Schastea offers a 5% off to those who bring their own cup; and Little Sister sells reusable iced-coffee cups and the first fill is on them!*
Ditch plastic bags (and report them if you see them around in Providence. They've been banned since 2019!).
Have that drink straight from the cup! Do you really need a straw?
Carry reusable cutlery with you so you can refuse plastic forks, spoons, and knives.
Bring your container when you go out and fill it up with the leftovers (if any).
Refuse plastic cups in general.
Email companies (particularly big ones) and ask them: to reduce their plastic waste; offer benefits for those who bring their own containers; or explain what zero waste measures they have in place. For example, if you see fruit unnecessarily packaged at a supermarket, you can email them and ask that they adopt more sustainable practices.
Buy at low waste stores.
Talk to a friend about Plastic Free July and pledge together!
Call politicians and ask them to approve laws that fight plastic pollution.
Organize a screening party of The Story of Plastic.
Good luck! And remember you are not alone!
*If you know of other businesses offering benefits or encouraging low waste practices, let us know!