Ever heard of PFAS? PFAS are thousands of substances known as ”forever chemicals”, meaning they accumulate in our bodies (hence the word “forever“) because we are unable to detox them. PFAS are synthetic and harmful to the body (and the environment) and can lead to health problems like cancer, hormone imbalances, thyroid issues, and metabolic disorders – that’s what plastics are made of!
When I learned about PFAS in plastic, I was mad! Growing up in the 90’s, ev-er-y-thing was plastic. Toys, storage containers, decor, you name it. Not much has changed in the 2020’s, which is equally as maddening considering we’ve known about the dangers of PFAS since the 1950’s but have continued to mass produce products (like plastics) that contain them.
So, will it surprise you to know that about 97% of adults have PFAS in their bloodstream? Yep…pretty much everyone you know has some level of PFAS in their bodies. Makes you wonder if the 3% lives in a bubble?
Luckily, not all is lost. Like most toxic substances, reducing the load that we expose ourselves to can make a huge difference, and it is possible with a few small changes.
Here are some simple swaps we have made to reduce our plastic use:
- Exchange traditional zip lock bags for biodegradable versions
- Get a stainless steel water bottle and use glassware at home (including baby bottles and cups!)
- Speaking of babies...try cloth diapering!
- Opt for glass storage containers and avoid putting hot food in plastic containers
- Bring a stainless steel or silicone straw with you to restaurants (or go straw-free!)
- Use wooden utensils in the kitchen
- Use paper grocery bags in your trash can rather than plastic bags
- Take a reusable tote to the store with you
- Buy clothes made of natural materials and fibers (less polyester, nylon, and acrylic; more cotton)
- Buy more products that are made with 100% recyclable materials
- Switch from dryer sheets to wool balls (dryer sheets are typically made of polyester)
Going plastic-free or plastic-less doesn’t happen overnight, and every little swap counts! Even participating in Plastic-Free July every summer can make a huge different in our bodies and our Earth! Do what you can with what you have.
How do you reduce plastic in your life?