Pointless Plastics
Tips and tricks to help create a cleaner, greener London
Do you get frustrated seeing pointless plastic when shopping and eating out? You’re not alone – 86% of Brits want a ban on unnecessary single-use plastics like, shopping bags, cutlery, cups & plates.
Governments and private companies are working to reduce plastic waste and pollution, but in the meantime there are lots of things we can do at home to help. From reuse to recycling, read on to learn what you can do to make an impact.
Know your plastic!
What types of plastic can be recycled?
It varies slightly depending where you live in London. Check out our services at a glance area for some simple ‘at-a-glance’ information and check our postcode locator for more in-depth details. If you’re still unclear, check your local council website – all councils have web pages dedicated to recycling.
You can recycle these things at home...
Bleach bottles
Hand soap bottles
Remember to remove the pumps!
Plastic spray cleaner bottles
Shampoo bottles
Shower gel bottles
Milk cartons
Plastic pots, tubs and trays
Yoghurt pots
Clear and coloured plastic bottles
Plastic drinks bottles
And you can’t recycle these at home...
Crisp packets
Cling film
Plastic bags and film
Baby food pouches
Cat food pouches
Medicine blister packs
Plastic toys (hard plastic)
Shockingly...
Over 2 million plastic bottles are used every day in London, and 40% of those bottles aren’t recycled meaning they’re sent to be incinerated or end up polluting environment.
If you hate the thought of pointless plastics clogging up our waterways and harming nature, consider making some simple swaps to help reduce waste.
#1
Invest in a reusable water bottle and fill it up at water fountains. There's lots of affordable options available to choose from and apps like Refill make it easy to find free water stations.
#2
Switch out your plastic loofah for a natural one that won't sit in landfill once you're done with it.
#3
Get more bang for your buck with a reusable razor. Try one made of wood or metal for bonus plastic-free points.
#4
When you head out to lunch, take a reusable container with you and ask your lunch spot if you can take away in that, rather than a disposable plastic container.
#5
Swap your plastic shower gel, shampoo and conditioner bottles for bars.
