It is no secret that single use plastic is harmful to our oceans and wildlife. Plastic does not biodegrade thus adding to the ongoing pollution epidemic throughout the world. According to Earth Day Network:
In 2016, world plastics production totaled around 335 million metric tons. Roughly half of annual plastic production is destined for a single-use product.
Thankfully, Seattle Washington has become the first city in the United States to combat this ongoing issue.
Seattle is a beautiful city who have already taken measures to try to reduce their carbon footprint from composting and recycling to electronic buses that run throughout the city. Additionally, they charge consumers a 10 to 25 cent fee per plastic bag in grocery stores.
Starting July 1st, restaurants are must use up their existing supply of plastic straws and utensils. If they do not comply to this new regulation, then restaurants up to $250 fine. A spokesperson for the Seattle Public Utilities department says it will “continuing outreach and assistance to businesses to help them come into compliance, rather than enforcement”. However, plastic straws will be available for those who need them because of medical issues.
According to the Seattle Times, in 2009 Styrofoam utensils were banned as an initial step to limit and monitor the city’s footprint. Some people don’t see the value and importance that comes with this ban, suggesting that it won’t lessen the consumption of plastic across the world.
How can you help? If your city hasn’t adopted a cleaner lifestyle, there are ways you can lessen your own carbon footprint. Having been to Seattle, the idea of ‘organizing my garbage’ so it can be composted, seemed kind of absurd. Especially coming from New York where composting and recycling is typically overlooked. While it may seem like an inconvenience, there are simple steps we can all take to help reduce our waste and help save the planet. Reducing plastic can be challenging, but it’s not impossible.
It may sound silly, but buying a reusable bag at the grocery store once is great. But you need to actually USE it. Sure, they’re cute, but the purpose behind them is to limit our plastic consumption. Invest in a good reusable water bottle, suitable for hot and cold beverages so you’re beverages can stay the right temperature no matter the time of year. You can use jars instead of plastic storage containers for leftovers. If you love straws, you don’t have to completely part with them. They are reusable yet affordable straw options available at Starbucks or Amazon, etc. They can even be biodegradable for added environmental benefit! It’s easy to overlook ways to help the planet, but it can be done.
It is rumored that New York and California are the next states to consider participating in the ban on single-use plastic.
