Looking after our planet is becoming more and more urgent. It is estimated that by the year 2050, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish. If that’s not enough to make us take a long hard look at how we use plastic, then what is?
In its bid to educate customers about the repercussions of plastic use, Waitrose began its sustainable initiative to charge 25 fils per single-use plastic bags on 16 June.
The supermarket has revealed its campaign findings today on International Plastic Bag Free Day.
After two weeks into the campaign, Waitrose reported a 74 per cent reduction in the single-use of plastic bags, with over 5,728 people purchasing a reusable plastic bag in the past fortnight. Comparing the data annually, the supermarket sold only 60 reusable bags, in the same period last year.
Launched in a bid to encourage shoppers to reduce the amount of plastic used, Waitrose has received widespread positive feedback from customers with 37% willing to pay more than 25 fils for a plastic bag and nearly two thirds of shoppers (60 per cent) admitting they support the initiative due to the impact plastic pollution has on the environment.
The in-store bag exchange, where customers can deposit any used bags for other shoppers to use has gained strong traction, resulting in the decision to roll this out across all Waitrose stores, making it easier for customers to recycle, reuse and reduce their plastic use.
The thought of being more conscious of your waste can be a bit daunting, so, to ease you in, we’ve got a few simple steps for you to try.
- Invest in a tote bag
Totes are great - and glam. Made from synthetic materials, they are super environmentally friendly and you can fit way more in them than a plastic bag anyway! Keep them in your car and you’ve got your very own, super sturdy shopping bag!
- Get yourself a stainless steel water bottle
Also a great investment - a stainless steel water bottle. You’ll cut down so much on plastic bottle usage. And, did we mention they are actually healthier for you? Plastic bottles actually contain toxic chemicals that are released in heat and seriously dangerous. It’s currently 36C degrees in Dubai, you do the maths!
- Select ‘no thanks’ on delivery
We are all guilty of thinking nothing of the hundreds of cutlery sets stuffed in the bottom of our food delivery bags. Opt in for a waste-free meal by using your own cutlery! Better yet, make your own lunch at home!
- Avoid frozen foods
Frozen food comes with multiple layers of packaging. Where you can, go for the fresh options! Your body and your planet will thank you.
- DIY cleaning products
You don’t really need a spray specifically for cleaning your hole-punch. For a pretty-much do-it-all household cleanser, a mixture of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water will give your home a professional scrub - toxin free!