Plastic pollution is among the biggest threats to the health of oceans globally. Due to the number of parties held on the beaches being on the rise, the increase of plastic production, lower levels of recycling and very poor waste management, the amount of plastic entering the ocean each year has increased to between 4 and 12 million metric tonnes. The amount is enough to cover every foot of the worldwide coastline. Even more, the amount is likely to increase to double the amount within the next 10 years.
In the ocean, the plastic pollution adversely affects the whales, sea turtles, fish, seabirds, coral reefs and many other habitats and sea species. Actually, scientists believe that almost every seabird has swallowed plastic in its lifetime. Plastic pollution is collecting on the coastlines, sea beaches, and dive and snorkel sites globally, including the remote areas like Midway Atoll. One of the key reasons why plastic has been a huge problem is that it never goes away – plastics do not decompose. Instead, the plastic debris breaks down into smaller particles called micro plastics, which have severe effects on the environment.
So, how have parties contributed to the increase of plastics on the beaches and coastlines?
It is hard to attend a party and leave without touching a plastic item. Single-use plastics appear to contribute a little amount of waste to the environment, but unfortunately, the small amount piles up very fast. It is the time to replace the single-use plastic items with the available alternatives, most of which last for many years. The plastic you use in parties does not biodegrade. It can take around 450 years to degrade completely.
Research shows that by the year 2050, the amount of plastic in the ocean will be higher than the fish by weight. The United States only recycles around 9 percent and China, which was previously the biggest recycling importer, does not accept recycling anymore. The production has not slowed down. The amount of plastic produced in 2016 was over 335 million metric tonnes in Australia alone. That is equivalent to the global annual production of plastic per product.
Organise Plastic-Free Parties is the Solution
- Use paper straws
Paper straws are gaining popularity, particularly in a get-together and parties because they are available in many styles, colours and patterns. The straws will make a good accent to your themed party and appear to be part of your décor. If you also need straws for your home parties, washable straws made of glass, stainless steel, bamboo or silicone is an eco-friendly option. In restaurants, glass straws are a better choice. Some cities have already banned plastic straws.
- Use water pitcher filter in place of bottled water
If you hate tap water, water pitcher filters will assist you to reduce the plastic waste associated with water bottles. By filtering your tap water, you will save money in addition to reducing your shopping trips. Buy a large stainless steel water bottle and fill it up with filtered tap water.
- Use coffee mugs or tumbler in place of plastic cups
Whether you will take a cup of tea or coffee, do not use plastic cups because they will build up unnecessary waste in the environment. It is silly to use plastic cups for a few minutes and leave it to start breaking down. Bring a few coffee mugs from home and use less disposable products.
- Use reusable bags in place of plastic bags
Perhaps, you have a drawer full of used plastic bags. Plastic bags are a known environmental pollutant and are not reusable, considering how they easily tear. To avoid them, you just need to buy canvas reusable or recycled plastic bags. The bags have comfortable straps and storage space. Therefore, you will walk to the store less often.
- Avoid plastic spoons, forks and knives
Astonishingly, most people use single-use plastic utensils each day and then dump them. It is time you start scrubbing and minimise pollution. Your contribution to environmental pollution will be less if you wash your utensils after eating.
- Go for an in-home soda maker
Cans are usually lined with plastic. To minimise the soda can waste; go for an in-home soda maker. It will reduce plastics and make crisp carbonated beverage each time you need fizzy drinks. Like you expect with bottled water, you will save a huge amount of money by going plastic free.
- Switching to reusable alternatives
It is hard to avoid single-use plastic, especially if you like organising parties. The process of switching from single-use plastics to reusable plastics will take a longer time but with patience, you will do it easily. Go through your home or kitchen and take an inventory of the single-use plastics you have. Replace them with the available lasting alternatives. Paul’s Rubbish Removal is here to help you with waste management ideas. We will help you eliminate any waste from your home.
Contact the professionals for advice and help on clearing out your unwanted rubbish. We offer same-day removal services 24 hours a day for all urgent jobs. Call 0407 125 125 for your free quote today.
