Why Plastic Free?

 

Every year, Americans use millions of tons of plastic just once, before throwing it away – and much of it ends up in our oceans. Together, we can change this habit and find better solutions to reduce our reliance on plastic.

What you should know about plastic pollution

  • The equivalent of a garbage truck full of plastic is dumped into the ocean every minute.
  • Nearly all plastic ever produced still exists.
  • Nearly all ocean pollution comes from land.
  • By 2050 it is projected that there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean (by weight).
  • One in four fish tested contain plastic.  This plastic is entering the food chain and ends up on our plates. 
  • Tens of thousands of marine animals are killed every year from plastic bag litter when they mistake plastic bags for food such as jellyfish.
  • Plastic is linked to cancers, impaired immunity, endocrine disruption and other ailments.
  • Exposure to plastic can impact fertility, pregnancy, and can affect the fetus by interfering with testosterone, disrupting normal sexual development. This disruption is not often apparent until adulthood and includes the increased risk of cancer.

Interested in learning more?  Read more here about how plastic affects us.


How can you avoid plastic, and reduce plastic pollution?

Replace plastic bottles and single use cups

Glass is better for the environment, more cost efficient and can keep your drink hotter or colder longer.

Say goodbye to grocery bags

Plastic grocery bags can be replaced with reusable ones. Yes, even produce bags.

Buying in bulk

Most products come in packaging that really adds up over time.  Buying in bulk eliminates packaging waste. Bonus: Use cotton bags for bulk items to further reduce waste and minimize plastic use.

Take plastic out of takeout

Decline bags and utensils when ordering takeout. You can also ask restaurants to pack food in your own reusable containers. Bring your travel utensil set with you for eating on the go.

How can you help repair damage done?

There are lots of organizations that make it easy to take action and help fix some of the damage already done from pollution.  One of the best and most applicable is the Surfrider Foundation.  Go here to get involved and do something right from your computer or phone by contacting elected officials about these important issues.

 

By helping to spread the word and reducing our reliance on disposable packaging, we can man the front lines in this fight against ocean trash and help kick our plastic habit.

 

Cannon Beach, Oregon | #KickPlastic | Well Earth Goods

 Cannon Beach, Oregon