The average person in the U.S. produces roughly 4.9 pounds of trash per day. This results in about 146 million tons of trash entering landfills each year. Here are some ways to reduce that number!
1. Switch to reusable shower loofahs/exfoliators/washcloths
In the past, I used generic nylon loofahs. Although you can wash these, mine would always come unraveled and I was forced to throw them out. I would go through so many loofahs a year and was worried about the environmental impact I was making alone. I switched to organic cotton exfoliating gloves and loved it.
2. Exchange body wash for bar soap + soap saver bags
Instead of using body wash that typically comes in a plastic container, try switching it out for a bar of soap. When the soap bar becomes too small, throw it into a plant-based soap saver bag. It works the same as a loofah and gently exfoliates in the process. These are also great to use with shampoo and conditioner bars!
3. Transition to Refill Stations
Refill stations typically carry plant-based cleaners and personal care items that you can purchase and refill your own jars or recycled containers. This allows you to adopt a lifestyle with less waste.
4. Trade single use cotton rounds for reusable organic cotton/bamboo rounds
I use my reusable cotton rounds to take off my makeup. Reusable cotton rounds are machine washable and can last forever. They will even save you money!
5. Switch from plastic to Bamboo toothbrushes
Bamboo toothbrushes that come in sustainable packaging are 100% biodegradable. Regular plastic toothbrushes need to be changed every 3 months. This can add up quick. In fact, plastic makes up about 18% of landfills.
Lastly, here’s a list of simple ways to help the environment in your day-to-day life.
· Turn off the lights when leaving the room
· Turn off the water while brushing your teeth
· Time your showers
· Replace lightbulbs with LEDs
· Use reusable grocery bags
· Bye secondhand/donate
· Compost
*Personal and U.S. waste statistics from https://www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/national-overview-facts-and-figures-materials