6 Simple Plastic Swaps YOU Can Make

Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues. Shows like Our Planet have highlighted the devastating impact single-use plastic is having on ocean wildlife.

Here are some simple ways to help cut down your single-use plastic consumption:

Invest in a reusable bottle

In the UK alone we use 13 billion plastic bottles every year. 7.5 billion of them end up in landfills, in the ocean, or being incinerated. In fact, they account for 1/3 of all plastic pollution in the sea.

You can cut down on your plastic and save money by buying a reusable bottle. Lakeland 500ml Infuser Bottle is a great choice if you prefer your drink with a fruity infusion. This BPA-free 500ml bottle comes with a Lakeland 3-year guarantee and is an absolute steal at only £6.99!

Swap your cotton buds

They're small, but they make a huge difference. In fact, if Europeans chose paper stems or sustainable cotton buds over plastic stems, it would stop 450 tons of plastic from harming the environment every single year. Paper stem cotton buds are easy to pick up - you can get 200 for just £1.50 at Boots.

Use a reusable tote bag

The use of single-use plastic carrier bags in the UK has fallen by a whopping 86% thanks to the carrier bag charge, which has also raised £66 million for good causes.

You can pick them up in most supermarkets or if you'd prefer something more personal, take a look at Etsy's range of recycled tote bags.

Ditch shop-bought toilet rolls

Thoughtfully named Who Gives A Crap makes 100% recycled toilet roll and paper towels that don't come wrapped in plastic AND they donate 50% of their profits to help build toilets - which is pretty amazing when you learn that 1 in 3 people don't have access to any kind of toilet. You can order yours here and you'll raise up to 2.5% for the charity you love!

Swap your straws

Thankfully lots of restaurants have already made the move away from harmful plastic straws, why not keep your own reusable stainless steel straw in your bag? Home Experts Lakeland have a stainless steel straw with a carry case and cleaning brush for just £7.99 here.

Stop buying cling film

If you're a fan of batch cooking or making packed lunches for your household, swap your plastic cling film for reusable wrapping. We absolutely love these cute Bee's Wrap reusable wraps from Lakeland. They come in an assortment of sizes, are made of natural cotton, beeswax, oil and tree resin, and are reusable.

What is Give as you Live Online?

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Offers, donation rates and participating stores are correct at the time of writing and are subject to change. Please visit the Give as you Live Online website for the most up to date information.