‘Planet vs. Plastics’

In 2009 the United Nations established the 22nd of April as International Mother Earth Day, this brought together several groups which had celebrated Earth Day on the same date. ‘Planet vs. Plastics’ is the focus for this year, with the aim to increase awareness of the damage plastics have on people, animals, and the environment.

Single Use Plastics

Most single use plastics are not recyclable and end up in landfill. In the oceans plastics can break down into microplastics and cause long lasting damage to our marine life and ecosystems.

In England from 1 October 2023, bans and restrictions on certain single use plastics came into force. Banned items include plastic cutlery, balloon sticks, drink stirrers and polystyrene food/ drink containers. There are also restrictions on plates, bowls, trays, straws, and cotton buds. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/single-use-plastics-bans-and-restrictions

https://gmgreencity.com/

How can you reduce your everyday use of plastics?

Carry a reusable bottle or coffee cup. Did you know CCCU has a Reuseable Cup Scheme? The reusable cup exchange scheme offers students the opportunity to purchase a reusable cup from participating outlets that can be exchanged for an Exchange Card after each use.
Take your own shopping bags out. Did you know the Veg Box Project brings seasonal produce straight onto campus? You get approximately 4kg of seasonal organic vegetables, freshly picked, in your order.
Switch cling film for foil which can be recycled by Canterbury City Council in your blue bin. Even better invest in reusable food covers and bees wax wraps.
Choose products wrapped in paper and avoid those with excessive plastic packaging. Did you know you can fill up on essentials from the Refillable Van? Bring your own reusable containers!

Actions you can take: Dorey, Martin (2022) No More Rubbish Excuses. Ebury Press (pages 151-152)

Recycle more and recycle responsibly; get to know how to recycle in your borough.

Eradicate as much single use plastic as you can from your daily life.

Eat sustainably caught fish and less meat.

Buy local, fresh seasonal, sustainable and package free, whenever you can.

Cook more and avoid pre-packaged meals.

Buy clothes only when you need them, and choose second hand or ethical whenever you can, in natural materials.

Get outside more and enjoy nature more. It’s free.

Spend your money on experiences, not things.

Resist the urge to buy the latest thing if you don’t need it.

Buy, if you must buy, from businesses that are transparent about how things are made. But question their integrity first.

Think ‘end of life’ whenever you buy something. What will happen to it once you have finished with it?

Use your voice to make change happen.

Understand how much of what you do matters. It does.

Advert for Veg Box project different types of fruit

Advert for refillable van picture of inside van

Plastic detox challenge

Earthday.org has a challenge for you- #PlasticDetox

Commit to reducing your use of single-use plastics in your daily life. Say no to plastic bags, straws, water bottles, and other disposable items. Seek sustainable alternatives instead. You can try this lifestyle change for any period – a day, a week or as long as you want to keep challenging yourself.

Share your plastic free journey- https://www.earthday.org/plastic-detox-challenge/