Why zero waste?

A Lincoln local plans to open a zero waste shop which will be the first of its kind in Lincoln.

But why is reducing plastic waste important?

Litter along a Lincoln public footpath by Sophie Bell.

Becoming zero waste is an increasingly popular solution to reduce the amount of plastic which pollutes the planet. Many believe that simply recycling plastic just is not enough to combat the problems of pollution. Greenpeace estimates that around 12.7 million tonnes of plastic end up in the ocean every year.

The World Economic Forum says that if we keep dumping plastic at our current rate, there will be more plastic than fish in the sea by 2050.

The World Economic Forum predictions for plastic waste.

One way to combat plastic pollution is to recycle. However, different places have varied recycling rules on what you can and cannot recycle which makes it a challenge to dispose of plastics.

Another problem is that not all plastics are recyclable such as cling film and crisp packets meaning more waste.

A solution many are turning to after discovering the amount of plastic that is devastating our ecosystem, is to follow a zero waste lifestyle.

Top Ten Tips for Zero Waste:

1. Use re-usable bags for all shopping.

2. Buy loose produce rather than bagged or wrapped goods.

3. Use storage containers instead of plastic bags or cling film ~ glass jars or metal containers are ideal.

4. Challenge convenience - Try to visit a waste-free shops rather than wrapped supermarket goods.

5. Replace paper towels with cloths.

6. Avoid buying online particularly with clothes - Reduce pointless packaging.

7. Get a compost bin ~ All wet waste can be disposed of and provide for insects.

8. Buy biodegradable phone cases and protectors.

9. Use unpackaged toiletries ~ soap, shampoo and make up bars.

10. Find a local zero waste shop.

For many this is a daunting task, with the accessibility of buying items without plastic being an increasingly difficult issue.

But by making an effort and thinking about what you use you can help reduce the amount of plastic waste.

Plastic wrapped vegetables in the supermarket by Sophie Bell.