Maya Ellison
Plastic is everywhere, and it's here to stay. With only 12% of plastic bags and film recycled in the US, according to the EPA, and 33% of plastic used once and thrown away, it's time to get creative with how we reuse plastic. From turning plastic bottles into bird feeders or planters to using old grocery bags for knitting or crocheting, there are numerous ways to give plastic a new lease of life. Reusing plastic is an important part of reducing waste and protecting the environment, and with a bit of imagination, we can all play a part in keeping plastic out of landfills and oceans.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic bags | Reuse for multiple shopping trips, as trash liners or pet waste bags, or recycle at stores or other drop-off sites |
| Plastic bottles | Turn into sprinklers, votive candle holders, or drip irrigation systems; alternatively, use to build houses, roads, or fishing boats |
| Plastic containers | Use for storage, or as plant pots or drip trays |
| Plastic cutlery | Reuse plastic cutlery or replace with biodegradable or reusable options |
| Plastic straws | Replace with reusable options, such as bamboo |
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What You'll Learn
Reuse plastic bags for shopping
Plastic bags are a common household item, and while they are often single-use, they can be reused in many ways. Here are some ideas to reuse plastic bags for shopping:
Reuse for Shopping
- Use plastic bags for shopping multiple times before sending them for recycling.
- Keep a few plastic bags in each car for spontaneous shopping on the way home.
- Store plastic bags in an easily accessible place, such as a front closet, to grab on your way out for shopping.
- Keep plastic bags in your regular shopping bag, so you always have one when needed.
Other Reuses
- Soak your showerhead or sink faucets in vinegar to clean out hard water buildup. Simply fill a plastic bag with vinegar and secure it with a clip or rubber band.
- Use plastic bags for creative projects, such as making coasters, wreaths, pompoms, or artwork.
- Utilise plastic bags for storage, such as keeping Christmas tree branches tightly wrapped and labelled, or storing small items like toys, jewellery, or toiletries when travelling.
- Pass on your excess plastic bags to those who can reuse them, such as farmers, small businesses, or local groups, who may need them for various purposes.
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Use plastic bottles for storage
Plastic bottles can be used for storage in a variety of ways. Firstly, they can be used as simple storage containers for small items such as cords, chargers, screws, or even as a piggy bank for coins. Punching holes in the sides and bottom of larger plastic bottles, such as 2-liter soda bottles, creates a drip irrigation system when buried next to plants. This is a great way to recycle plastic bottles while also helping your garden thrive. Plastic bottles can also be cut and used to make hanging planters for plants or storage for small items like pencils, crayons, or markers.
For those with pets, plastic bottles can be transformed into toys. Simply take an old sock, insert a plastic bottle, and tie off each end. This creates a crunchy toy that will provide hours of entertainment for your furry friend. Plastic bottles can also be used to create larger storage solutions. In Cameroon, for example, fishermen have started using plastic bottles to build inexpensive and sturdy fishing boats, keeping bottles out of the waterways. Similarly, plastic bottles filled with sand and straw have been used as building materials for homes in Algeria, providing affordable and sustainable housing. These innovative structures are then covered in cement and painted white, showcasing the versatility of plastic bottles in construction and storage.
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Make plastic bottle planters
Plastic bottles can be reused to make planters. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make plastic bottle planters:
First, you need to carefully cut the plastic bottle using scissors or a utility knife. Cut the bottle in half or about one-third of the way from the bottom. The bottom portion of the bottle will serve as your planter. If you are working with kids, they may need help with this cutting step.
Next, use a paintbrush to paint the bottom portion of the bottle. You can add multiple layers of paint if needed and let it dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Once the paint is dry, you can glue a pair of googly eyes to the front of the bottle to give it a fun and whimsical touch. This step is optional but can make your planter more decorative and engaging, especially if it is intended for a child's space or as a gift.
Now, your planter is almost ready! Simply fill the bottle with soil and then add your plant of choice. You can use lightweight potting soil to make your planter easier to handle and remember to choose a plant that suits the size and dimensions of your bottle planter.
As a bonus tip, if you want to create a drip irrigation system for your planter, you can punch holes in the sides and bottom of a 2-liter soda bottle, bury it next to the plant, and fill it with water. This will allow the water to slowly drip out and irrigate your plant, helping to keep it hydrated.
By following these steps, you can create charming and unique planters from plastic bottles, giving them a new purpose and reducing waste.
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Recycle plastic bags and wraps
Plastic bags and wraps are recycled differently than plastic bottles and containers. Plastic bags and wraps do not go in most curbside recycling bins. They often get stuck in recycling equipment, causing a waste of time, money, and material. Instead, they go to participating retail store recycling bins. Retailers collect plastic film packaging from consumers and back-haul this plastic film to multiple businesses that recycle it into new products.
There are thousands of retail stores and drop-off centers across the United States that accept plastic film packaging for recycling. Consumers can collect and save qualifying plastic films and bring them to stores to recycle. However, some flexible plastic packaging is not accepted through these programs, so it is important to verify before dropping off.
To recycle plastic bags and wraps effectively, ensure they are clean and free of residue to prevent contamination of other materials. A light wipe with a dry cloth works well. It is also recommended to gather items in bulk for more efficient drop-off, saving time and supporting better recycling practices.
Recycled plastic films become products like lumber/decking, stormwater management systems, construction materials, and new flexible plastic films. Recycling flexible plastic films saves anywhere from 8 to 23% of greenhouse gas emissions compared to manufacturing new plastic films.
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Buy products made from recycled plastic
One of the most effective ways to reuse plastic is to buy products made from recycled plastic. This not only reduces plastic waste but also encourages sustainable practices and supports innovative brands. Many companies are now creating products from recycled plastic, and by choosing these products, you can make a positive impact on the environment.
For example, you can find clothing brands that use recycled plastic bottles to create board shorts and swimwear. These brands often accept old swimwear of any brand for recycling, ensuring that plastic stays out of the environment. By purchasing from these brands, you're directly contributing to the reduction of plastic pollution.
Additionally, you can look for household items and furniture made from recycled plastic. This includes products such as storage containers, shelves, and organizers made from recycled plastic bottles or milk jugs. By opting for these items, you're giving plastic a second life and preventing it from ending up in landfills or oceans.
Recycled plastic is also being used creatively to make artistic items and home decor. You can find everything from vertical gardens and chandeliers to jewelry holders, lamps, and even furniture pieces made from recycled plastic. These unique items not only showcase the versatility of recycled plastic but also provide an eco-friendly alternative to conventional products.
Moreover, buying products made from recycled plastic extends beyond household items. For instance, in Cameroon, fishermen are making inexpensive and safe fishing boats from plastic bottles, preventing them from clogging waterways. Similarly, in Algeria and Mexico, plastic bottles filled with sand and straw are being used to build circular homes for refugees, providing shelter that can last for years.
By actively seeking out and purchasing products made from recycled plastic, you're not just reducing plastic waste but also promoting a circular economy. This sends a powerful message to manufacturers and encourages them to prioritize sustainability in their production processes. So, the next time you shop, look for items made from recycled plastic and be a part of the solution to the plastic problem.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many ways to reuse plastic, here are some examples:
- Plastic bottles can be used as storage for paint or other liquids.
- Plastic bags can be used for multiple shopping trips.
- Plastic containers can be used for storing cords and chargers.
- Plastic bottles can be used to make a bird feeder.
- Plastic containers can be used as plant pots.
Plastic bags can be reused in multiple ways:
- They can be used as trash liners or pet waste bags.
- They can be cut and fused together to make a mat or a basket.
- They can be used as a substitute for wrapping paper.
- They can be used for arts and crafts projects.
- They can be recycled at stores or other drop-off sites.
Plastic bottles can be reused in a variety of ways:
- They can be cut and used as planters.
- They can be used to store liquids such as paint or water.
- They can be used as a pencil case or a pen holder.
- They can be used to make a bird feeder.
- They can be decorated and used as a vase.
There are many ways to avoid using plastic:
- Choose glass, paper, or cardboard packaging over plastic.
- Use biodegradable or reusable cutlery instead of plastic ware.
- Bring your own reusable bags when shopping.
- Buy products in bulk to reduce the need for multiple plastic bags.
- Use a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic water bottles.
Proper disposal of plastic is important to reduce the impact on the environment:
- Recycle plastic items such as bottles and containers.
- Buy products made from recycled materials to reduce the need for new plastic production.
- Support businesses that make an effort to reduce their use of plastic packaging.
- Educate others on the importance of recycling and proper plastic disposal.
- Participate in local recycling programs or initiatives focusing on reducing plastic waste.
