How to be an Eco-helper rather than an Eco-warrior - Little Sustainable Actions to Reduce Plastic Waste

In our modern, plastic-coated world, sustainable living can be seen as an almost impossible task. The terms "plastic-free" and "no-waste" are unrealistic and overwhelming for someone like me who is more of an Eco-helper than an Eco-warrior. I truly care about the environment and want to make a difference and I believe that the little helping hands are just as important as the lifestyle converts.

A few days ago I was watching the news and was shocked, upset and embarrassed by a report on the extent of plastic pollution in our oceans. Scientists have discovered plastic particles in species as deep down as 7 miles below the surface showing that even the most remote parts of our oceans cannot escape the damaging effects of humankind.

Image taken from Blue Planet II - BBC

This made me think back to the last episode of Blue Planet II and a scene where a plastic bottle settled next to the anemone home of a clown fish family. Perhaps this a familiar site for the fish as they weren't phased by the object and even tried to incorporate it into their home for the female to lay eggs on. I did a bit of further research and discovered that the heroes who created the programme picked up every piece of plastic they saw whilst filming. The little action of picking up a plastic bottle makes the ocean habitat a safer place and has the big impact of saving several species lives.

Here are 5 little sustainable actions that I am trying to incorporate into my everyday life to reduce plastic waste, which over time can have a big impact:

1. Saying no to Plastic Straws - We use straws for the time it takes to slurp down a drink (perhaps 5 or 10 minutes) then forget about their existence completely as they are thrown in the bin, instantly becoming a source of plastic pollution. Understandably then, these little plastic tubes are one of the most wasteful products out there. If you're ordering a drink just say no... or if you really need a straw opt for a paper or reusable bamboo version. This also goes for plastic cutlery.

2. Reuse Wrapping - With Christmas fast approaching now is the perfect time to reuse the tissue paper, boxes and wrapping that often come with over-packaged online deliveries. If you've ever had an Amazon delivery you most likely received an unnecessary ream of brown paper with your item. This is perfect for wrapping gifts and can be personalised with stamps or drawings to make it eco-chic.

3. Reuse Shopping Bags - Grab yourself a stylish linen bag that can be folded down and put inside your pocket/handbag without taking up too much space. This can be reused again and again saving numerous plastic carrier bags and, if you're from the UK, a bunch of 5p coins.

4. Buy a Reusable Water Bottle - Fill it up in the morning and take it with you to sip on throughout the day. You'll be less likely to need a drink from the shop and waste a plastic bottle.

5. Swap your Plastic Toothbrush for a Bamboo one - The Humble Brush - Holland & Barrett £3.99 is an eco-friendly, biodegradable toothbrush that lasts just as long as a standard plastic version. What's more: for every brush sold, a child in need receives a toothbrush or alternative oral care or education in areas around the world where the need is greatest.

These are the first 5 little actions that I will be incorporating into my daily routine as I embark on my new journey as Eco-helper. However, I hope to research further into plastic alternatives and come up with more sustainable ideas to share on the blog.

How do you try to reduce your plastic waste? Will you be incorporating any of the little sustainable actions into your routine? Please share in the comments below.

K x

All Images are my own unless otherwise stated.