Do you love to shop, but struggle to find plastic free packaging? One of the amazing things about the modern age we live in is that almost anything we need can be ordered within a click of a button – but at what cost?
What is plastic free packaging?
Did you know that 40% of the plastic we produce is used for packaging? That’s plastic made simply to be used once before we discard it. Since less than a fifth of all plastic is recycled, we have to find a better way.
Enter: plastic free packaging. It’s a real thing! Many companies ship using alternatives to plastic, such as:
- Compostable paper for cushioning instead of bubble wrap
- Non-reinforced paper tape
- Biodegradeable cornstarch and wheat packing peanuts
Three ways to get plastic free items
Ready to get plastic free packaging and skip the single-use plastic? Here’s how:
1. In-store shopping
Shopping in-store is possibly the easiest way to go plastic free. The most important thing is coming prepared! Bring your own bags like this – I recommend keeping a spare in your car or purse so you’re never without.
Not sure what to say? Try:
“I don’t need a bag, thanks! I brought my own,” or “No bag, please – I’ll just carry that out.”
The key to plastic free packaging in this scenario is to catch the employee helping you before they begin automatically bagging your items.
2. Shopping online
Online shopping can be a bit more tricky, but it’s still possible! First, you can choose shops that cater to plastic free shipping. A few general-purpose stores include:
Understandably, you can’t be expected to only shop at plastic free and zero waste stores. Aside from other ethical issues that Amazon presents, they are the only option for some who live in remote places and make it easy and affordable to get the necessities.
Amazon offers the following options for plastic free packaging:
- Use the live chat to contact customer service and ask them to make a note on your account requesting as little packaging as possible.
- Utilize their Frustration-Free Packaging Service, which offers reduced waste and 100% recyclable packaging
- Request that items are shipped together rather than separate
With many other companies, you can actually request plastic free packaging at checkout. Look for a notes section during the checkout process and ask for plastic free packaging.
Like with Amazon, many other companies will allow you to contact customer service via live chat and ask them to include the note on your account requesting no plastic packaging.
Some companies, like Target, also offer a discount if you agree to ship items together rather than speedier, separate shipments.
3. Choose plastic free products
Choosing products that are not housed in plastic is also important. Opt for items in plastic, glass, or aluminum containers.
When possible, choose products with no packaging at all, such as shampoo and conditioner bars. If you\’re curious to know how they work, take a read of this blog post.
Have you had any success with requesting plastic free packaging? Share your best tips in the comments below!
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