6 Things You Should Stop Buying to Help Protect the Planet

As inhabitants of our earth, it's important that we work together to protect it. We are responsible for preserving nature, and by making smarter decisions, we are reducing the risk of environmental issues. One way to do this is by changing our bad habits.

Below we are going to take a look at six things you should stop buying to help protect the planet.

Let's get started!

Plastic Straws

According to nps.gov, around 500 million drinking straws are used every day in the US. This plastic pollution is making its way into our water sources and oceans, harming our precious marine life. Straws can be deadly, and at the end of the day, they are something we can go without. 

If you must use them, opt for reusable ones that are made from durable materials. They are easy to clean and are portable for on the go.

New Books

Everybody loves the feeling of cracking open a new paperback book. However, you might not realize that supporting your favorite authors is also harmful to the environment. Billions of trees are cut down every year to make paper, harming multiple ecosystems.

Instead, consider buying digital books via Kindle, head down to your local library, or visit the thrift shop. There are so many pre-loved novels looking for a new home.

Bottled Products

Most of us are aware of how bad bottled products are for us. Alongside filling up landfills and taking around 450 years to break down, they contain toxins such as BPA. We aren't just talking about bottled water, either. Bath products, food items, and cleaning supplies can all come in plastic packaging.

Instead, choose to purchase natural necessities in green packaging. You can buy shampoos and soaps in bar form, and for your home, Eco Friendly Commercial Cleaning Products, such as the Enviroshot, can help. You just need to do a little research, and you'll find plenty of great replacements.

Cotton Swabs

Cotton swabs are handy tools to have. However, they are another dangerous item that we can go without. Many end up in the ocean, others pollute waterways, and the amount of fossil fuels that are used in production is astounding. It's much easier to use reusable face wipes and to find other (safer) ways to clean your ears. You can find more information here.

Plastic Bags

Another important thing we need to stop buying is plastic bags. 200,000 of them are dumped into landfills every hour, and they take an enormous 1000 years to degrade. Simply switching to reusable totes can make a huge difference, keeping our beautiful planet happy and healthy. If you're feeling creative, you might even make your own with these DIY tote bag patterns.

Paper Towels

Perhaps one of the worst things you should avoid purchasing is paper towel. This simple kitchen product is responsible for accumulating 254 million tons of trash each year. It takes 17 trees and 20,000 gallons of water to create one ton of it.

Opting for reusable cloths instead not only helps cut down your carbon footprint but saves you money in the long run. Most of the time, they do a better job of cleaning your home anyway.