In a world grappling with the repercussions of excessive plastic consumption, we, Singaporeans, are presented with an opportunity to lead the way in tackling plastic pollution.
In a year, Singapore uses 467 million plastic bottles and 473 million plastic disposable items like takeaway containers. In a recent study by United Nations University for Water, Environment and Health (UNU INWEH), Singapore was identified as one of the largest consumers of bottled water per capita and is one of the fastest-growing markets for natural bottled water, despite having access to clean drinking water for all.
This checklist focuses on reducing single-use plastics, a pressing concern in a densely populated urban environment like Singapore. By minimising plastic waste through reusable alternatives and fostering a culture of conscious consumption, we can help alleviate the burden on landfills, land ecosystems, and marine ecosystems.
Here is checklist to help you become more environmentally conscious and build good habits regarding single-use plastics:
- Carry a reusable water bottle and coffee cup to reduce reliance on single-use plastic bottles and cups. Bring a reusable food container if you’re getting take away.
Use a reusable water bottle instead of purchasing single-use plastic bottles.
Using reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and food containers reduces the need for single-use plastic containers, decreasing plastic waste in Singapore’s landfills and waterways.
- Use reusable shopping bags or bring your own tote bag when shopping to avoid plastic bags.
Bring your own reusable shopping bag instead of taking a new plastic bag.
Reusable shopping bags reduce the demand for disposable plastic bags, which are a major source of litter and pollution and require resources to produce.
- Decline plastic straws and utensils when dining out and choose venues that support this initiative.
Use metal or glass reusable straws instead of plastic straws. Or ditch straws altogether!
Plastic straws and utensils are often not recyclable and can harm wildlife when they enter ecosystems. Not using plastic also reduces the carbon footprint associated with plastic production.
The food and beverage industry has switched to paper straws as an alternative. However, a recent study in Belgium found that paper straws contain PFAs, forever chemicals, commonly used in items as a water repellant. PFAs are toxic and harmful to human health and environmental health. Ditch the straw, or if you must, bring your own reusable straws.
- Choose products with minimal plastic packaging or eco-friendly packaging. Or opt for items sold in bulk where you bring your own containers.
Bulk food stores often provide ec0-friendly paper or glass packaging. You can also bring your own containers from home.
Choosing products with minimal plastic packaging lowers the demand for plastic production and reduces waste generation.
- Encourage friends and family in Singapore to participate in plastic reduction initiatives, such as the BYO (Bring Your Own) campaign.
Bring your own container when you purchase cut fruits from the fruit and juice stall.
Encouraging friends and family to participate in plastic reduction efforts spreads awareness and promotes a culture of sustainability in Singapore.
Image courtesy of BYO Singapore
Which eco-friendly habits are you adding to your everyday life, and which are you already doing?
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