Life without plastic: The 5 most important tips for a plastic-free life

Life without plastic is good for the environment. Time and again we hear about the huge mountains of rubbish in the oceans that pollute our planet. With a few simple tips you can save plastic in your everyday life.

Why living without plastic makes sense

Plastic is dangerous – for animals and humans alike. High time to become aware of the consequences plastic has for our habitat.

• Microplastics are particularly harmful to our environment and our drinking water. This term refers to pieces of plastic that are smaller than five millimetres.

• These small plastic particles are produced and used for scrubs, toothpaste or as granules in industry.

• Microplastic is also produced by the weather-related decay of larger plastic parts. It is sharp-edged and indigestible.

• These small plastic particles are eaten by animals but can no longer be excreted. Animals starve to death on a full stomach.

• Microplastics also enter our food through the food chain.

• Living without plastic also avoids countless pollutants that are produced during the manufacturing, burning and degradation of plastic.

• Not least, not using plastic keeps our beaches, forests and cities clean.

Five tips for a life without plastic

The many harmful effects of plastic show us: it’s time to do something. Everyone can contribute in everyday life and use less plastic. We have compiled the five most important tips.

• Avoid plastic in personal hygiene: use a toothbrush made of wood, cotton buds made of bamboo and make sure shower gel and shampoo do not contain microplastics. Soap is a good substitute.

• Drink tap water: In our country, tap water is of the highest quality and can be drunk without any problems. This will save you a lot of plastic bottles.

• Always take a bag with you when you go shopping: Since January 2022 and the accompanying ban on plastic bags at the checkout, plastic bags are disappearing from the supermarket scene. Paper bags are not a better alternative, according to the Federal Environment Ministry. Go for reusable carrier bags made of fabric. They are lightweight, can be folded up and are therefore a perfect companion for shopping.

• Use glass fresh food jars: Instead of plastic jars, glass containers are also suitable for storing and carrying food. Empty jam jars, for example, are ideal for storing spices.

• Switch to filter coffee. One capsule in the machine and the coffee is ready. It’s convenient, but it creates a lot of plastic waste. A coffee machine with a filter is more sustainable. Use reusable coffee filters for this as well.