Leah Payne

“It’s only single-use if you use it once.” This quote, by Sarah Robertson-Barnes rings through my head at least once a day. 

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: there’s a big difference between plastic-free and Zero Waste. Going low-waste is not about throwing “away” all of your plastic for (admittedly beautiful) natural items. It’s about using the plastic that you have as long as you can.

Like these plastic bags. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve washed and reused them for buying or freezing bread, or for bulk shopping. They’re pretty ugly, I know, and like all plastic, they’ll eventually meet an unhappy end on this planet, but since they exist, I’d might as well use them!

Do you reuse some “single-use” plastic too? What do you use it for?

Here are some tips for reusing plastic

1. Handle plastic with care. Try not to heat it, subject it to UV damage, or physically damage it. “Stressing” plastic with high temperatures or physical damage can cause it to leach potentially harmful chemicals. I wash these bags by hand with mild soap and lukewarm water, and I hang them to dry. (Please note that I am not a health professional, scientist, or expert. Always seek professional help for your health concerns or questions.)
2. Can’t use it? See if anyone else can! Donate it to a local refill store (many have a “free containers” section), give existing bags to pet owners for pet waste, or post it for free on a local online buy-and-swap group.
3. Create art! Feeling crafty? You need to check out @common_earth’s trash art projects (and also watch her stories on a regular basis because she’s hilarious!).