3 minute read
Packaging is essential. A world without packaging would mean that no liquids, gels or powders would be available, fruits and vegetables would not be available out of season, and consumers would have to grow their own food supply or buy items daily. But there are actions that all of us can take to reduce waste. Solutions such as banding can help reduce excess packaging waste by replacing materials like shrink wrap, poly-bagging, inner cartons, etc. We at Wexler are always looking for ways to do our part to save the environment. Here are some ways you can do your part no matter what your daily routine is:
- Invest in reusable shopping bags
Plastic grocery bags can take anywhere from 10-1000 years to decompose. Most municipalities do not accept plastic grocery bags as recyclable. That means that these bags will sit in landfills for up to 1000 years. From the landfills, they can migrate in our oceans where our marine friends live. By refusing to use plastic grocery bags and swapping them out with a reusable cloth bag, which is also much more durable, we can prevent the excessive waste that these plastic bags cause.
- Buy in bulk
For items that you use regularly, choose the larger size. Not only will this save you money in the long run but buying in bulk means less packaging. Smaller packs generate more waste per package. Many bulk stores will also let you bring your own durable, reusable containers.
- Meal prep
Material waste isn’t the only problem in US households. Food waste is on the rise, and this means an increase in air pollution. According to www.ThinkEatSave.org, most uneaten food rots in landfills and winds up accounting for almost 25% of US methane emissions – a gas that is 21 times more harmful to our environment than carbon dioxide. Reduce food waste by only buying groceries that you know you will eat and prepping your portions ahead of time.
- Transportation
Cutting car transportation by two or more days per week, you can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 1,500 pounds per year. By working remotely, combining errands into one trip, you can help the environment and improve wear and tear on your vehicle. And if available, the option of walking and/or biking are also ways to reduce greenhouse gases (plus get in a good workout!). If you live in an area that isn’t walkable, you can take advantage of your local mass transit system or carpool.
- Conserve Water
Every little bit helps with this one. Turn the water off while brushing your teeth. Don’t let the shower run when you’re not in it. Fix leaky faucets – they can drip as much as 90 gallons of water every day. Drink filtered tap water instead of plastic water bottles (you’ll help the planet by eliminating plastic with this one, too!).All of this saved water can add up to a significant amount saved!
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