How to go plastic free in the kitchen

Plastics harm our wildlife and ecosystems. Something that we use for such a short amount of time goes on to cause harm and take up space for hundreds of years. While the responsibility should be put on companies that use environmentally harmful materials like single use plastics, there is still things we can do on our own to go plastic free. The kitchen is a great place to start. Here are some ways you can get rid of plastic in your kitchen. 

Avoid single use plastics:

Single use plastic plates and cups will definitely make washing dishes easier. While they are convenient for us, they are contributing to the ever growing problem of plastic pollution. Stop purchasing plastic utensils, plates, and cups. Use reusable dishes. Avoid plastic straws and water bottles. Instead invest in a reusable water bottle and reusable straws. 

Replace plastic kitchen items with eco friendly alternatives:

Start phasing out the plastic in your kitchen. Whether it is plastic serving utensils, measuring cups, cutting boards, or mixing bowls- there is a sustainable option. Find kitchenware that is constructed from glass, stainless steel, wood, bamboo, or natural fibers. 

Get rid of plastic storage:

From ziplock bags to plastic wrap, plastic is often used to store food in. It is time to break that habit. Beeswax wrap is a wonderful alternative to plastic wrap. Not only is it better for the environment, but beeswax wrap is reusable for about a year. Ziplock bags can be replaced with metal or bamboo sandwich boxes and containers. The same concept applies to storing food in the pantry or fridge. Glass jars and containers are great for food storage. 

Clean up plastic free:

Cleaning items are another example of plastic items that are commonly found in the kitchen. Bottles of dish soap can be traded out with bar dish soap. Cleaning spray can be bought in glass spray bottles. Reusable cloth rags should be used in place of paper towels. Use a plastic free sponge such as a knitted dish cloth or a wooden dish brush. 

Shop plastic free:

Learning how to shop plastic free will greatly reduce the amount of plastic items entering the kitchen. By bringing reusable shopping bags, produce and bulk food bags, and reusable containers for deli items to the grocery store- you can avoid a lot of plastic packaging.

Take action:

Extended producer responsibility is an umbrella term to talk about programs where the responsibility of waste is shifted from localities and consumers to the companies making the products that are difficult to manage. In Virginia, we are calling on our leaders to pass laws to require producers to use less plastic and to help pay for recycling programs in the Commonwealth. Add your name to our petition to show your support for producer responsibility in Virginia.