Sustainable Habits in a Pandemic-Ridden World
In our current reality, it is unfair to expect anyone to be operating at their optimal low waste lifestyle capacity. Many don't have the resources, are anxious about leaving their homes, or are physically or financially unable to maintain pre-pandemic low waste habits.
Disposable face masks have surged in use, 75% of which will end up in landfills or floating in the ocean. Coffee shops no longer allow you to bring your own mug. Many bulk food stores halted their ‘bring your own container’ policy. Initially, grocery stores even prohibited bringing your own reusable bags. Simple swaps many of us had made in our daily routines are no longer feasible, and the constant state of chaos of the world has made focusing on waste reduction challenging, to say the least.
The intent of this article is not to impose the idea of a “low waste lifestyle” as the solution to all environmental problems or to imply that saving the earth from impending doom and climate change lies solely on individuals. In the age of consumer consciousness, people are paying attention to what and how they buy things. With the banning of straws and plastic bags in some areas, awareness and willingness to shop sustainably has become more prevalent. And while producers have a bigger hand in carbon emissions, consumers can still play a role in limiting waste or eliminating pollution.
During a time when safety and health are many people’s main priorities, incorporating sustainable swaps can seem complicated and feel overwhelming. However, there are so many ways we can continue to help our planet and avoid further contributing to plastic pollution and climate change.
So, what are some simple, accessible switches we can all make to practice sustainable habits? Here are 3 significant actions you can take:
1. Wear Reusable Masks
With COVID-19 cases increasing and the efforts to develop a vaccine underway, it doesn’t look like required mask use is going away any time soon. If you haven’t already, consider investing in a reusable mask. While single use masks can be tempting and convenient, they are not all sustainable in the long run. Reusable masks are a washable and cost-effective alternative and don’t contribute nearly as much to pollution. Sew your own reusable mask or buy locally! If you are looking to shop sustainably and support local businesses, here are a couple places to buy reusable masks:
Located on College Avenue in the Elmwood area, Cotton Basics has a comfortable and affordable array of masks that range from $10-$20.
On Etsy, it is easy to search by city to find creators near you. Masks on etsy typically average around $15!
MudLab is an Oakland based zero waste store. They are selling reusable face masks that average around $13.
** The CDC recommends washing your reusable face masks often or even daily.
2. When possible, avoid single use plastic.
How we go about this practice has changed during the pandemic, but the idea remains the same. With an increase in delivery, restaurants transitioning to plastic utensils and cups, and coffee shops not allowing reusable cups in store, it is important to be conscious of when single use items are necessary and when they are avoidable. Bring your own reusable water bottle with you. If you purchase take out, ask the restaurant not to include utensils, straws, and other single use plastic. Try using shampoo and conditioner bars if they are accessible to you. On trips to the grocery store, avoid buying items with excessive packaging.
3. Limit non-essential online shopping
If feasible for you, try to limit purchases from Amazon, and buy from small businesses or second-hand when safe. Refusing Amazon altogether is best (though often not realistic) because, in addition to their lack of accountability, the trillion-dollar company emits millions of metric tons of carbon into the atmosphere, a staggering number that has increased by 15% in the last year. Alternatively, arrange for contactless pick-up off of Facebook Marketplace or coordinate trades in your community through programs like the Buy Nothing Project. Ditch fast fashion and buy clothes second-hand or from stores that manufacture sustainably. Reduce your use of food delivery services like Doordash and instead cook at home. If possible, do all of your errands in one swoop to avoid excessive driving.
Regardless of how long this pandemic lasts, climate change and plastic pollution remain ongoing issues. Whether you are changing your delivery or consumer habits or buying a reusable mask, every effort made to be more sustainable is a step in the right direction. Every swap makes a difference, so take another look at your purchasing habits and the amount of waste you generate. What kind of footprints will you leave in a pandemic-ridden world?
