Plastic waste is one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. It takes hundreds of years for plastic to decompose, leading to significant environmental pollution and harm to wildlife. By reducing our reliance on single-use plastics, we can help mitigate these negative impacts and contribute to a healthier planet.
"Plastic Free July" is a global movement that encourages millions of people to reduce their single-use plastic consumption. It started in 2011 as a local initiative in Western Australia by the Plastic Free Foundation, and has grown into a worldwide campaign. By participating in Plastic Free July, individuals and businesses commit to reducing their plastic waste and adopting more sustainable practices. This month-long challenge creates a nice sense of community as many people around the world use this month to incorporate meaningful changes, and share their successes and challenges.
What BEDI is doing
Environmental sustainability has always been at the core of BEDI. Our slogan is “One day everything new will come from something old”, and our dedication to using materials that already exist includes reducing plastic pollution by using waste that would otherwise be part of the problem. For instance, we use ECONYL regenerated nylon for all our outerwear, and many of our bag styles. This is a material made in Italy from nylon waste such as discarded fishing nets and old carpets, which would otherwise be polluting the earth. Another example is the straps for our bags, which are made from seatbelts salvaged from Quebec scrap yards. Seatbelts are made from polyester, and are incredibly strong and durable (for obvious reasons!) While they would typically go to waste when cars are sent to the scrapyard, they make the perfect straps for bags, and we’re glad to be able to give them new life in our designs!
Our team is also enthusiastic about reducing our plastic footprint in our daily lives. Some habits we’ve already ingrained into our day-to-day (we’re never without our reusable water bottles, and we always have a BEDI bag with us for grocery trips and farmers market visits!) and some habits we’re hoping to improve this July (like bringing our own containers to the bulk food store more often!)
No matter where you are in your journey to reduce plastic, here are some of our favourite tips this July!
Reusable Containers + Mason Jars for Picnics and Lunches
Summer is the perfect time for picnics, and with a few simple changes, you can make your outdoor dining experience more eco-friendly. Instead of relying on disposable plastic containers, opt for reusable containers and mason jars to hold your food. Mason jars are versatile and can be used to store salads, fruits, and even beverages. We also love metal tupperwares for a lighter-weight option. By using reusable containers, you not only reduce plastic waste but also enjoy the convenience of having your food neatly packed and ready to go.
Carrying a Tote Bag
Whether you're heading to the farmers market or the grocery store, bringing your own tote bag eliminates the need for single-use plastic bags, which often end up in landfills or as litter. We have a few BEDI bags that we like to use for quick stops at the shop, with enough space to hold the essentials, plus some fresh produce and pantry staples.
Reusable Water Bottles
Staying hydrated is essential, especially during the summer months! Instead of purchasing bottled water whenever you need a drink, try investing in a high-quality reusable water bottle. There are many options available, from stainless steel to glass, and they come in various sizes and designs to suit your needs. By carrying a reusable water bottle, you reduce the demand for plastic bottles and ensure you always have water on hand without contributing to plastic waste.
Bringing a Reusable Mug to Your Favourite Cafe
For many of us, a daily visit to our local cafe is a cherished ritual. However, disposable coffee cups contribute significantly to plastic waste. This Plastic Free July, try bringing your reusable mug when you get your favorite brew. Many cafes offer discounts for customers who bring their own cups, making it a win-win situation. Not only do you reduce your environmental footprint, but you also save money!
Shopping in Bulk
When possible, we love to buy food and household items in bulk to reduce packaging waste. Many stores are becoming more accommodating of this practice, and it’s an excellent way to cut down on plastic packaging. You can bring your own containers or bags to the store, have them weighed, and fill them with grains, nuts, pasta, and other bulk items. Shopping in bulk is often cheaper as well, so you not only reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in your home, but also reduce costs.
Important Notes
While we’ve recommended some of our favourite plastic-free alternatives above, it’s important to note that the most sustainable option is usually the one you already have! There’s no need to rush out and buy the most aesthetic glass containers or the fanciest reusable water bottle. (If you’ve visited the BEDI booth at a craft show, you might have noticed our team’s reusable water bottles look… a bit rough! But they do the job!)
We also think it’s important to emphasize “progress over perfection”. (Which is admittedly a challenge for us, a team of perfectionists!) But we try to remind ourselves to leave the perfectionism for our products, and try to give ourselves a little grace when it comes to daily life. That being said, we find “Less Plastic July” feels a little less daunting, and allows us to celebrate the wins, rather than be discouraged when we forget to bring a jar to the bulk store.
"Plastic Free July" is a great opportunity to make small changes in our individual habits that can lead to lasting change. By incorporating sustainable practices into our daily lives, we can collectively reduce plastic waste and protect our planet for future generations.
