This year's Earth Day theme, Planet vs. Plastics 2024, highlights the urgent need to address plastic pollution for humanity's and the planet's well-being.
- Over 100 billion plastic beverage containers were sold in the US last year.
- Shockingly, 95% of all plastics in the US won't ever be recycled.
- Currently, 79% of all plastic produced is still in landfills or the natural environment.
- Compounds like BPA found in plastics pose health risks, including a higher risk of breast cancer.
How You Can Make a Difference?
Each of us has the power to contribute to the solution:
- Join Cleanup Efforts: Participate in local cleanup events to remove plastic waste and prevent further harm.
- Calculate Your Plastic Footprint: Assess your plastic usage and find ways to reduce or eliminate single-use plastics.
- Support Refill Stores: Seek out local refill stores to minimize single-use plastic packaging.
- Choose Reusable Alternatives: Opt for reusable options like glass or steel containers whenever possible.
- Share Resources: Use your social platforms to raise awareness and inspire others to take action.
Additional Tips for Reducing Plastic Waste:
- Choose to Reuse and Repair: Repair items instead of replacing them, and promote repair culture in your community.
- Explore Plastic Alternatives: Utilize alternatives like aluminum, steel, and glass.
- Get Creative with "Waste": Repurpose plastic items for other uses before recycling them.
By incorporating these tips into your daily life and sharing your efforts with others, you become a part of the solution to plastic pollution. Together, let's work towards a cleaner, healthier planet for all.
The Climate Action Corps team shares tips and tricks that can help you be a better steward of our environment. Want to keep getting environmental sustainability news? Be sure to subscribe to the Campus Climate Action Corps newsletter for more.