How to Reduce Microplastics in Our Everyday Lives

On my blog, I’ve written several posts about the dangerous and growing presence of microplastics in our everyday lives. Yet, with plastic use on the rise, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for most families and individuals to switch to cleaner, greener alternatives. So, how can we balance personal convenience with environmental responsibility? Here are five practical ways to live a life that’s both personally and environmentally efficient:

1. Avoid Plastic Containers for Storage

While plastic containers are inexpensive and less likely to break around children, they can increase our exposure to microplastics in food. Opt for glass, stainless steel, or silicone containers instead. Additionally, buying fresh produce—especially in bulk—can help you save money and reduce the amount of plastic packaging your food comes in, further lowering your plastic exposure.

2. Use Reusable Water Bottles

Even though reusable water bottles are more common now, it’s worth repeating: ditch single-use plastic bottles. Research from Columbia and Rutgers Universities found that a typical liter of bottled water contains up to 240,000 detectable plastic fragments. By switching to a reusable bottle, you make your water intake safer and are likely to drink more water throughout the day.

3. Eat Less Processed Food

Most processed foods are packaged in plastic, which increases the risk of microplastic contamination. While processed snacks are popular—especially with kids—prioritizing fresh, whole foods is a healthier and more sustainable choice for your family.

4. Stay away from fast fashion

   
   

   Although fast fashion brands such as H&M, American Eagle, Forever 21, and Brandy Melville are among the most popular clothing stores towards consumers, they are also on a list of companies that adopt blind and harmful environmental practices in order to create clothes that cater to current trends. However, the difficulty in adopting sustainability clothing is that most stores that are more environmentally aware are more expansive, and less prominent in malls and shopping centers. Here are a list of sustainable stores that are affordable:

   
   

   - Yes Friends.

   - PopLinen

   - Levi's

   -Pact

   - Parks Project

   
   

5. Choose Natural Cleaning Products and Tools

   Many conventional cleaning products come packaged in plastic bottles and contain microplastics or chemicals that break down into microplastics, which can wash down our drains and end up in waterways. Instead, opt for cleaning solutions made from natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, or castile soap, which are just as effective and safer for both your family and the environment. Additionally, swap out synthetic sponges and scrubbers for alternatives made from natural fibers, such as cellulose or coconut husk. These options not only reduce your plastic footprint but also minimize the release of microplastics during cleaning.

   
   
   
   

   While the challenge of reducing microplastics and plastic use can feel overwhelming, every small step truly makes a difference. By making thoughtful choices—whether it’s swapping out plastic containers, choosing reusable water bottles, eating less processed food, supporting sustainable fashion, or embracing natural cleaning products—we each contribute to a healthier home and a more sustainable planet.Together, our everyday actions can help shape a brighter, cleaner tomorrow

   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

   Sources:

   
   

   > https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/how-to-avoid-eating-microplastics/

   > https://www.npr.org/2024/01/10/1223730333/bottled-water-plastic-microplastic-nanoplastic-

   >study#:~:text=Microscopic%20pieces%20of%20plastic%20are,typical%20liter%20of%20bottled%20water.

   > https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/fair-trade-clothing/