From toothpaste to kale chips to straws, nearly every product we buy is packaged in plastic. And although recycling facilities now exist in most U.S. cities, experts say that just a fraction of consumer plastic is actually recovered—roughly 5 to 10 percent of plastic material is remade into more durable products. The rest? Much of it ends up in the ocean, according to the 5 Gyres Institute. There, plastic breaks down into tiny particles, which are toxic to sea life, threatening biodiversity that keeps the ocean healthy. This is a big problem. As oceanographer Sylvia Earle says, “No water, no life. No blue, no green.” So what can you do? Kick your plastic habit by choosing products that make living the zero-plastic life easier than ever.
Green Sheep Bottled Water
We know, filling up your own water bottle is best. But this water brand makes a compelling case: When you do need to buy water on the fly (in an airport, for example) aluminum packaging is a pretty decent choice, as it can be infinitely recycled without degrading.
Glass Dharma Smoothie Set
Sipping from a glass straw may seem weird, but these sturdy, reusable straws are made with borosilicate glass, a super-strong material that is safe for both dishwashers and microwaves. Plus, they somehow make smoothies seem more gourmet.
Simple Ecology Organic Cotton Mesh Reusable Produce Bags
Ditch flimsy plastic produce bags for these long-lasting cotton satchels, certified by Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). Highly stretchable (and machine washable), they can hold produce like apples, oranges, cucumbers and more without breaking.
Farm To Girl Green Goddess Lotion
Personal care products are often packaged in petroleum-based plastic. That’s why we love this luscious lotion, swaddled in a reusable, thick glass container with a metal lid. What’s inside is good too: A blend of organic sunflower oil, avocado oil and beeswax soothes scaly skin.
