I started to think about reducing my plastic consumption when I joined the environment society of my University and started to interact more with other students who were nature lovers. I began to read more on environment and was actively involved in organising and attending events aimed at encouraging eco-friendly behaviour. One such event was the Environment Festival – Tatvam, held in November ’18 at Shiv Nadar University where I attended Ms. Richa Malik’s talk on Reducing Plastic Footprint. I walked out of the room, after the talk, with two emotions: the guilt for having consumed so much plastic every day mindlessly and the conviction to do something about it henceforth.

Here is a my guide to successfully kick-start your plastic-free journey like I did :

1. Calculate and Analyse Your Plastic Footprint
This may not seem as important but it is. Also, it can be easily done online. I calculated my plastic footprint on the Happy Turtle website. Calculating your plastic footprint is a good way to start because this will help you understand what the pattern of your plastic consumption is and what you need to cut down on, the most. For me, it was takeaway food / order-ins. As a hosteller, it is a little difficult for me to completely avoid ordering food but I have tried to reduce it as much as I can. I make sure to order from places where plastic packaging is used less or not used altogether. I also ensure that neither plastic cutlery nor extra packets of condiments, seasonings are sent.

2. Cutlery
On the go, we often tend to not care much about the single-use plastic cutlery that is given to us with food because we don’t carry our own. I immediately bought my own lightweight cutlery set which I always carry with me. It makes me happy to look back and think about the 2 plastic spoons that didn’t add up to the pile of waste. If I do eat out once every third day, which I tend to do, I can successfully avoid 20 plastic spoons in a month! Think about it. Buy and carry your own cutlery set. It is especially helpful for frequent travelers.

3. Bottle
I never really liked using plastic bottles. It is not healthy. Besides, why not use sturdier and long-lasting options like copper or steel bottles? They are good for our health and the environment. Carry your own bottle with you every day, as I do. That way, you also save money on buying plastic water bottles outside. You can just refill your own bottle.

4. Straws
Did you know that plastic straws are a major portion of the trash dumped in the ocean? If you didn’t know, now you do. I bought my own steel straw which I carry along as a part of the cutlery set. So can you. Buy a reusable bamboo or metal straw and you are good to go.

5. Bags
For shopping or simply for everyday use, cloth bags are well-suited. When I had to buy a new bag for college, I bought a backpack made of scrap cloth. Cloth bags are easily available in the market at much lower prices than traditional rexine ones. Another option could be buying or making bags out of old denims. They look oh so stylish, last much longer and are easier to wash.

6. Toothbrush
I swapped my plastic toothbrush with a bamboo one. The bristles are still nylon, which is plastic, but it still helps me cut down on the plastic to some extent. At times, I am reminded of my grandfather who used neem twigs with some tooth powder. Try out the alternatives and choose whatever suits you the most.

7. Personal Hygiene & Bodycare
I stopped buying personal hygiene and skincare products like shampoo, hair oil, cream and conditioner packaged in plastic. I made a list of sites and shops where these products are available in metal or glass containers. Some of these places also give you a discount on the products if you return or refill the old containers. Save money and save the planet, in one go!

I hope that you can begin your plastic-free journey with ease if you haven’t already! You are a Plastic Reduction Hero in making! In the fight against plastic pollution, each small step counts. Our individual choices and efforts matter.

Let us leave behind memories, not plastic!

About the Author :

A Literature student, Shalini is an alumna of Miranda House, Delhi University. In her free time, she likes to overthink, sitting at a nice spot. It might take you a while to bring her back from the maze of thoughts. An ardent reader, she pens down meaningful sentences occasionally. Shalini always tries to do her bit in making turtles happier and the Earth greener.