My intention with this experiment was to go a day without using plastic and document how it went. I did some planning the night before to make sure that my plastic free day went smoothly. I planned ahead to ensure that I wasn’t going to be eating out at any fast-food places, was going to make my coffee at home, and that my snacks for the day were whole foods that weren’t plastic wrapped.

I woke up the following morning excited for my plastic free day. The whole plan then hit a speed bump when I crawled out of bed and turned on the light switch which is made of plastic. I then got dressed and put on a T-shirt which, upon further inspection, was made of polyester a type of plastic. This was leading me to notice just how much plastic is around us. Realistically, it is unavoidable. I mean, even my contacts that I need to see are made of… yep, you guessed it, plastic.

As the day continued, I made an effort to stay true to my original goal by consciously avoiding single-use plastics. I packed fresh fruits and homemade snacks, drank from a reusable water bottle, and declined a straw with my lunch. Even with these efforts, I couldn’t help noticing the plastic that surrounds us — from product packaging to personal care items. It’s a constant presence.  

My experience isn’t exactly unique. In general, higher income countries consume more plastic per capita than lower income regions. According to Earth.org, the United States produces more plastic than any other nation at a whopping 42 million metric tons every year. Our plastic waste habits have deadly consequences by putting economic burdens on already marginalized groups, endangering marine life, and polluting water that humans depend on for livelihood. On average, one person in the United States produces 287 pounds of plastic a year.   

When I consider these facts, it can feel overwhelming and lead to feeling helpless. The problem is expansive, and individual responsibility can feel small in the face of systemic waste. So, what can the individual do to mitigate plastic use?   

While going plastic free may not be completely feasible, here are some ways to cut down on plastic use.  

1. Bring reusable bags and water bottles: These simple swaps, while they may seem small still make a difference. 
2. Opt out of plastic packaging when possible: Avoid items like straws, coffee lids, and plastic bags when possible.
3. Support local, sustainable brands: Seek out brands that prioritize minimal and sustainable packaging.
4. Use plastic free alternative personal care items: You can substitute normal bottles of shampoo for shampoo bars. These products also tend to last longer and be more cost effective.
5. Advocate for change: Systemic change requires policy action. Participate in community cleanup initiatives and advocate for more restrictions on plastic use.

My attempt at a plastic free day reminded me how deeply this material is embedded in our lives. As individuals, our actions might seem small, but each conscious choice builds momentum toward a collective shift. I encourage people to try out their own plastic free day and to consider what changes can be made in their own lives!   

Plastic Pollution in the Chattahoochee River (Source: T Technique)

Common Plastic Free Alternatives (Source: Fair Trade Winds)

References 

Five Easy Plastic-Free Alternatives

Atlanta sued by Chattahoochee conservationists

https://one5c.com/plastic-pollution-by-country-136931514/ 

https://www.santacruzworks.org/news/plastic-pollution-statistics-facts 

https://earth.org/plastic-pollution-statistics/