Use Real Dishes
It is amazing to see the amount of styrofoam plates and plastic utensils being used to plate meals at home. Not only are they single use so they end up in the trash, but styrofoam and plastic do not biodegrade. So it is unnecessary waste making its way into the land fills where it will live for generations to come. There are so many beautiful dishes to choose from for very cheap. The dollar store has beautiful plates and cups for only $1. Target have amazing deals on entire dish sets. You buy them one time and you’ll never have to buy them again. So, you are also saving money!
Reusable Soap Dispenser
How cute are these reusable soap dispensers? Dispensers paired with a soap refill (you’ll only need to repurchase maybe once or twice a year), you could eliminate excess plastic. Recycle when done!
Dish Brush
Being that sponges are bacteria magnets, they typically are thrown into the trash after one or two uses. Most sponges are made of plastic, so they are not very biodegradable.
Instead, opt for a dish brush with a bamboo handle. This one has recycled fibers and is reusable.
Napkins
Instead of constantly purchasing paper towels every week, a set of cloth napkins will last for years and they are only a one time purchase.
Dishwasher vs Hand Wash
Depending on how you hand wash your dishes, using the dishwasher only when it is filled may be the better option. Even better if it is EnergyStar approved.
If you hand wash, make sure you turn off the faucet while you are cleaning the dish. Leaving it running wastes gallons a fresh water.
Groceries
Don’t forget your reusable bag! Also, buying bulk items with zero packaging would be best for the environment. Fruit, vegetables, grains, etc can all be bought package free to limit plastic consumption. Mason jars are great for storing sugar, flour, rice etc from the bulk section. Also, keep in mind the type of packaging your food comes in. Opt for glass mason jars so they can be reused for storage.
Plant Based Diet
Speaking of groceries, it is no secret that a plant based diet is better for the environment. Even if you do not go completely vegan or vegetarian, try to incorporate more plant based foods such as fruits, vegetables and grains in your diet. Maybe even go Meatless Mondays!
Conserve Energy
Unplug small appliances like toasters and coffee makers when they are not in use. They are consider “Vampire Energy” which continues to use electricity even when they are not in use. So, unplug it to cut the energy usage. Save money and the environment!
Compost
Food waste fills our trash bins everyday. In the landfill, food waste contributes to methane pollution in the atmosphere. Methane is 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide! Instead, we could turn those food scraps into compost which makes for rich soil for our plants and gardens.
ECO BAE 