Comments on: Plastic Challenge: Daniella in BC, Week 1

By: Benne'

Benne' — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 20:33:01 +0000

You know, I just ask every store I shop to skip the plastic wrapper for things like meats and cheese. At one store, I have to get paper from the butcher because the deli department only has zip lock style packaging. I reuse the plastic containers my olives come in and you have given me an idea for bulk as well. I’ve been taking paper sacks, the size for lunches, in for rolls but I bet I could use them for bulk as well. I don’t care if it weighs a smidgen more than a plastic bag and I bet the cashier won’t care either. All shopping is made more difficult but it is so worth the effort. Everyone knows I’m crazy when it comes to plastic. I simply don’t push the point while I’m living the life I want. Hell, I’ve got chickens and a veggie garden in my no fenced backyard! You would be surprised how many people want to have conversations with me when I request no lid or straw for a drink. Being able to “blame” it on a contest has really lowered the crazy factor…..Thanks a bunch Beth! I’m glad to be the crazy plastic lady. Oh, and on your father, let him know that the Pacific Gyre Garbage Patch can’t be fully photographed because it is twice the size of the United States. Just sayin’

By: Daniella

Daniella — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 20:02:10 +0000

Thanks Beth, I’ll have to check it out when I’m not at work!

Olena, we are practically neighbours, we live just on the Surrey side of Scott Road! It is hard to find good stores in the area, I’m pretty well stuck with the going to the usual grocery store and sticking to the bulk isle. I certainly have not found any stores that would weigh a container for me. I sure know all about people thinking I’m nuts, my mom doesn’t say much but my dad thinks I’m crazy.

Benne, your ideas are hilarious! I love it!

Sarah, I like your part about the birthday gifts. Last year we did a no-disposables birthday but I didn’t know how to mention the gift thing to everyone.

By: Sarah

Sarah — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 04:06:41 +0000

I put this paragraph on my kids birthday invitations.

“While your presence is what we desire at this party we know some may want to bring presents for the birthday girl. We are most grateful for this. Because we are very concerned about the safety of toys and their impact on the environment, we ask that gifts for Marcella are made of safe, natural, and sustainable materials (wood, fabric, paper, metal) and do not require batteries to run.”

I am also pretty vocal about trying to reduce plastic in my home–especially around my kids. USUALLY when someone gets it they also get it with regards to the package they put the gift in (maybe not all the way if they see something that fits my paragraph but is wrapped in plastic. When it comes to gifts it is a hard line to ride and I think we have to accept some level of plastic from well meaning relatives. Some people got it right off, the rest are coming around and my oldest is only 2.5 so I’m doing pretty well so far. You might also find ways to mention in conversation you are tallying your plastic trash to reduce it to folks who are “repeat offenders”. This takes time but it does make a difference.

By: Benne'

Benne' — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 03:35:36 +0000

This is a really great time of year to have a “Green Day” party, and with Earth Day just a few days away, why not combine. Okay, this is going to sound awful, and I’m only half serious. Why not keep saving your plastic trash for the next few weeks instead of recycling. Fill a pinata with all your waste. Hang the pinata over a plastic (LOL!!) kiddie pool. Have adult guest swing the bat/broom. Make sure all kids involved know the secret. BAM! When it cracks open, have the kids scream!
Sorry, I know this was a bit wicked. However, I think it would be effective. If you need something more mild, start two rows in your garden. Plant one row with plastic waste. In the second row, have guest/family/friends, plant seed packets. Have a second party mid harvest and a third by the end of season when you turn the spent plants into compost. All your plastic will have remained in a beautiful perfect row.
Being smug won’t really help change anyone’s habits. I just think it brings more happiness to be crazy!

By: Olena

Olena — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 03:10:14 +0000

I am so thrilled to read this post! I am in Delta BC (live on the boarder with Surrey) and just recently started moving our family of 5 towards less plastic (not ready for the challenge yet). I found it difficult to find substitutes and stores I can buy in bulk.
I have been vocal to friends about our choices but so far they think I am “nuts” and I do not seem to get the support.
We made gifts for one of the friend’s birthday which gave an opportunity to tell about our goals. We often entertain friends and have food, treats and drinks made from scratch so that is another opportunity to emphasize your values.
We already start telling people (so they get used to the idea) that for next Birthdays we would like to receive previously loved gifts.
I am also planning to make some sandwich/snack bags to give to friends with a cute note about “helping environment”.
Look forward to reading about your next challenge Daniella.

By: Beth Terry

Beth Terry — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 01:09:45 +0000

Hi Daniella. I don’t have the perfect answer for how to talk to loved ones about these issues, but you might enjoy the post/video I did about couples, green values, and why Michael thinks I’m Ned Flanders:

http://myplasticfreelife.com/2010/02/disagreeing-on-green-values-why-michael-thinks-im-ned-flanders/

I posted your question to the Facebook page. Hopefully others will chime in:

http://www.facebook.com/MyPlasticfreeLife/posts/116071721805920