Reduce Plastic Use And Save The Environment On Your Next Trip

There is a lot of literature out there on how we can reduce plastic use. We, as travelers, also have to be mindful of how much plastic we use while on trips. The unfortunate butterfly effect of pollution is that that plastic bottle you discarded on a beach in Florida, can find its way to Italy where you are spending your vacation. 

Additionally, while traveling and eating out, we have the tendency to use even more plastic than we normally do. This is one of the ugly truths that accompany travel and tourism. Much of the industry is made to be enjoyed and then disposed of.

The good news is that there is a lot that travelers can do to safeguard the environment. All it takes is awareness and the willingness to put the environment first. Continue reading to learn how you can be more environmentally friendly when you travel. 

Pack A Water Filter

Of course, when you are in countries where drinking water is not safe, it’s only prudent that you buy bottled water. However, after using it, where does that plastic bottle go? An alternative to using countless plastic bottles is buying a water bottle with a filter. This means you can use your single bottle throughout the trip and reduce plastic use. 

Say No To Airline Food

This is because most airlines serve nearly every food inside a plastic wrapper. And you know what, they will continue doing so until you stand up and condemn the act. So, on your next trip, why not inform the airline either directly or through their social network handles that you will not eat their food again until they stop serving it with plastic.

Bamboo Toothbrushes

Yes, they are pretty cool and user-friendly. Rather than using plastic, these toothbrushes are made out of bamboo. You will be surprised that ever since they were first launched on Earth Day in 2013, Woo has sold millions of these toothbrushes. It is the perfect, lightweight travel toothbrush to take along with you on your next adventure. 

Always Clean Your Environment

Having a litter-free environment starts with you. The next time you go out for a picnic, make sure you don’t leave the place littered with all sorts of plastics. Clean up for the sake of the next visitor. Who knows you might even be the one visiting the same spot the next day?

The same idea pertains to roads, malls, forests, wherever you find plastic, be civilized enough and pick it up. Though you might not have been the one to use the plastic, mother nature will thank you for cleaning it up! It is even more beneficial if you are able to recycle the plastic you pick up. 

Plastic Use At Home

Being responsible does not stop on vacation, or when you are visiting different countries, as they say, charity begins at home. As such, make sure you reduce plastic use even within your home. Keep using that bamboo toothbrush and reusable water bottle.

You can make a difference by talking to your local authorities about the use of plastics. Go to Google, Yelp, Facebook, Twitter, and other social network handles and leave reviews for companies that use plastic excessively. For instance, if any local leader has a hotel and they use plastics, call their attention to it.

Lastly, volunteer. Take part in clean-ups. For instance, there is one called Umuganda in Rwanda, where everyone is supposed to take part in monthly cleanups across the country. And if you don’t have one within your area, why not initiate one? Having a clean environment starts with you.