Planet vs Plastic: How to Reduce Single-Use Plastic this Earth Day

Discover effective ways to minimize single-use plastic usage and impact the environment positively this Earth Day.

This Earth Day, the global theme is “planet vs. plastic,” calling attention to the urgent need to reduce plastic pollution. With plastic production projected to triple by 2050 if current trends continue, environmental advocates are urging governments, companies, and individuals to take action. The Earth Day movement is calling for “the end of plastics for the sake of human and planetary health,” as millions of tons of plastic end up in the oceans each year, and people are increasingly exposed to microplastics in the air, water, and food.

The Problem with Plastic

“Plastic is everywhere in modern society,” says Judith Enck, former EPA regional administrator and head of Beyond Plastics. She points out examples like pointlessly bagged produce and single-use baby food pouches. Less than 10% of plastic is recycled, compared to much higher rates for glass, aluminum, and cardboard.

The global plastics crisis requires action from governments and companies. This week, thousands of negotiators and observers representing most of the world’s nations are gathering in Ottawa to craft a treaty to try to end the rapidly escalating levels of plastic pollution. In the UAE, single-use plastic bans are being phased in, with Dubai implementing bans this year and expanding them through 2026.

However, individuals also have a role to play in reducing plastic use. There are things shoppers can do, like bringing reusable bags, choosing glass or paper packaging over plastic, asking for paper instead of plastic bags at the fish counter, and talking to kids about why they’re making these choices. “Even small steps make a difference because big supermarkets notice when people ask for less packaged material,” Enck says.

Tips for Reducing Plastic Use

To start reducing plastic use, individuals can calculate their plastic footprint using online tools, then research eco-friendly alternatives for kitchen and bathroom items. Refillable bottles, biodegradable containers, and secondhand reuse are all strategies to try.

In the kitchen, beeswax wrap can replace cling film for storing food. Bamboo toothbrushes and cotton swabs are eco-friendly alternatives to their plastic counterparts. Food containers can be cardboard, and nappies come in plant-based materials. When shopping, reusable bags can replace plastic ones, and a single collective bag or net bag can keep loose produce together.

Going completely plastic-free can be challenging, so when plastic can’t be avoided, recycling is key. UAE residents can check their local recycling programs and use recycling kiosks for items like plastic bottles. Some companies, like Washmen, can take plastic products for recycling when providing their services. If you can’t completely eliminate plastics, aim to get maximum use from them by repurposing items like ice cream tubs for storage or planters.

Making a Difference this Earth Day

Ultimately, solving the plastics crisis will require action from governments and companies. But this Earth Day, individuals can reflect on how to reduce reliance on single-use plastics in their own lives.

Every choice to refuse unnecessary plastic sends a powerful message. By calculating their plastic footprint, researching eco-friendly alternatives, and making small changes in their daily habits, individuals can contribute to the global effort to end plastic pollution and protect the planet for future generations.