If you follow our Twitter account, @Love__Local, you know that we’ve posted a lot about reducing plastic usage and waste. That’s because it’s such an important issue that affects us all.  Microplastics are the result of plastic waste in the environment breaking down. Not only do we need to be concerned with these tiny plastic particles, but we also must consider the chemicals used to treat them in their previous life. Plastic is treated to give it specific properties, for instance to make it harder, think food storage container, or softer, think plastic wrap. Recent research has shown that these microscopic plastic particles, and the chemicals they carry, are in our food chain. They’ve been found in fish, soil, water and even the air, which means we are exposed to them every day.

You can make a difference. How? Don’t contribute to plastic pollution.

• use beeswax wraps instead of plastic wrap

• use glass food storage containers for leftovers rather than plastic

• say no to plastic bags

• use biodegradable disposable cutlery and plates for parties

• choose products with biodegradable packaging

• refill spices bottles from the bulk section rather than buying brand new bottles

• don’t buy bottled water

• don’t buy toothpaste or body care products with plastic beads or particles

• recycle plastics that you can’t avoid using

It’s up to each one of us to make a difference in our own habits and encourage those around us to do the same. It may not always be super convenient to take a minute to fill a reusable water bottle rather than grabbing bottled water, but that’s ok, because it’s the better choice.