We talk a lot about plastic around here, from art made using reclaimed plastic to innovations in bioplastics. Plastic, especially single-use plastic, is an environmental nightmare. Sure, you can recycle most plastics, but each time you do you end up with a lower-quality plastic. Eventually, it's all landfill-bound, where it's basically never going to break down.
But for used plastic that you can't recycle or reuse, the landfill is almost a best-case scenario. If it doesn't make it to the landfill, it washes into waterways and eventually makes its way into the ocean, contributing to one of the plastic gyres that litter the sea.
On a recent trip to the Smithsonian Marine Research Station on Carrie Bow, professional photographer Laurie Penland ran across this floating mass of random plastics in the ocean and took some video from below. Meet the floating plastic monster:
Looking to cut back on the single use plastic in your life? There are lots of ways to cut back on single use plastic:
- Choose reusables. Why use plastic cutlery? You can go for a reusable option instead. If you absolutely have to use disposable cutlery, opt for the sort that you can compost in a home composting bin.
- Look for minimal packaging. Or even better: look for NO packaging! One of the best ways to cut back on packaging is to buy second hand. Most thrift stores don't want to splurge on plastic clamshells or shrink wrap.
- Bring your own bag. Just say no to single use, plastic grocery bags. Keep some reusable bags in the trunk of your car, the commuter pack on your bike, or in your purse. If you forget to bring a bag, opt for paper or just carry your items out by hand.
- Bring your own cup. Whether you're going out for coffee or a smoothie, bring a cup of your own, so you don't have to take a plastic cup or a paper cup with a plastic lid.
- Shop the farmer's market. Processed foods usually include some sort of plastic packaging, as do a lot of the fruits and veggies at the grocery store. Hit the farmer's market, and bring your own, reusable bags to tote home your goods.
Of course, these are just a few jumping off points. There are lots of ways to avoid single-use plastic. Tell us your favorite in the comments!
Video via Ocean Portal, photo by Laurie Penland