Emily Wanous | Freelancer

Ever since I can remember, the environment has always been something that I worried about. It wasn’t until I came across a fact that slapped me in the face with raw truth that I really recognized the reality: every piece of plastic ever created is still on this earth today — every single one. Of course, this was something that I could have connected, but I had never even considered it until I read that fact.

Adding on to this grim realization, I found that in Oregon, major recycling centers do not recycle most common forms of plastic, such as plastic coffee lids, plastic grocery bags and more. This is mind-boggling, because not only will it stay on this earth, it won’t be used again in another form. With all of this in mind, I took it upon myself to switch to plastic alternatives for daily items. For your convenience, here are some of the alternatives that I’ve found beneficial.

The first item I chose to switch to was QOGiR Reusable Sandwich bags. They have super cute designs, and they are non-toxic and stain-resistant. On top of this, they are washable and inexpensive.

Second, I switched to Bee’s Wrap Reusable Food Wraps. These are washable, and can easily morph around both food and containers, to assure that your food is being saved well. Admittedly, they are a bit more work than traditional plastic wrap, but you get the benefit of knowing that aren’t using single-use plastic.

Third, I now use Wowe Organic Natural Bamboo toothbrushes. Toothbrushes may not even be something you consider when trying to reduce plastic usage. This specific brand is charcoal infused, and has BPA-free bristles. As a bonus, there’s no plastic packaging.

Fourth, I recommend using Earth Junky Mesh Produce Bags. Many of us do choose to use reusable grocery bags, which is a great start. However, imagine the number of times you buy fruits and veggies and use the plastic produce bags — this will allow you to cut those out entirely.

Fifth, I love using Mason jars. I use them for all my drinks throughout the day. Whether it be coffee, tea, water or anything else — these jars work great. If you buy coffee at Western coffee shops, among other places, they will gladly fill your cup instead of a one time use cup. And on campus, doing so will give you a 25 cent discount.

My sixth recommended product Unni 100% Compostable Trash Bags. I should note that these may be a bit less durable than traditional plastic bags, but they still work great and get the job done.

Seventh, I use resealable plastic bags. These may not be a special product, but what makes them helpful is that I do reuse them. It’s inevitable that you will buy plastic containers or bags at the store. When this happens, reuse the container as much as possible before throwing it in the trash.

The eighth and final product I’ve switched to is Nellie’s All-Natural Laundry Soda. It cleans everything thoroughly, and the packaging is tin rather than plastic. The best part: it’s inexpensive.

As Monmouth is a small town without a lot of shopping diversity, all of these products can be bought online. To find all of the plastic alternatives listed, head to Amazon. There, you’ll find everything listed and it may even spark a new idea of other ways you can rid yourself of plastic.

Contact the author at ewanous15@wou.edu

Photo by: Ecomaniaccompany.com