Vegan Friday - using less

In today's Vegan Friday I want to discuss the reasons why we all could do we thinking about how to use less, particularly when it comes to substances harmful to the environment - that's plastic.

We only have one planet earth, and her resources are dwindling because of the actions of humans. Think about it, if humans didn't exist, this world would be in much better shape than it is now. Nature, left to her own devices, is adept at creating an equilibrium through which the status quo is maintained. Change happens, of course, but usually very slowly, and for very different reasons that human-created climate change.

When I think of all the plastic that ends up in our oceans, eaten by innocent birds, fish and mammals, I literally want to weep. How did we get to the stage of caring so little about looking after our planet? This article makes the shocking statement that if we continue as we are now, plastic will outweigh fish in the ocean by 2050. 

Just think about that for a moment.

If you are vegan or vegan-curious, there are probably many reasons behind your decision. Compassion for animals will come into it, but also trying to stop contributing to climate change caused by animal agriculture will be there somewhere too.

These ideals and goals align so perfectly with trying to reduce our plastic waste that it's a logical next thing to think about once our diet is cleaned up. How can we use less plastic on a daily basis?

Here are a few ideas:

• buy a stainless steel water bottle to keep water with you instead of using single-use plastic bottles
• use a reusable coffee cup to avoid takeaway cups
• take your own bags to the supermarket
• avoid buying anything wrapped in a ridiculous amount of packaging - try to buy loose vegetables rather than pre-packed (could you take your own muslin bags to the supermarket for these?)
• take a set of cutlery out with you to avoid plastic single-use sets
• try a shampoo bar or a solid shower gel to cut down on plastic bottle use
• try to find wooden washing up brushes, clothes pegs, chopping boards etc.
• would you be willing to use a bamboo toothbrush? Or a metal razor?

When plastic was invented in the early 1900s it was hailed as a wonder-material. Strong, durable, it was perfect for so many uses. Now, it has become a victim of its own success, it is too durable and stays in our environment potentially forever.

What can you do to cut down your plastic use? Let me know in the comments.