# How to Move Away from Plastic Dependency

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/04/how-to-move-away-from-plastic-dependency/
- Published: 2020-04-12T15:47:06-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

**_All By Put Down the Plastic an _**Image created by CustomMade / Since plastics
were first introduced to the U.S. during the mid-late 19th century, we’ve been dependent
on the material for it’s versatility, convenience, and function. Currently, plastics
are one of the most used materials on a volume basis in U.S.A.  Not reclaimed wood
consequently.

#### That’s in industrial and commercial life.

Unfortunately, the sheer [mass](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/04/new-research-exposes-a-crisis-in-the-global-trade-of-recyclable-plastics/)
of plastic used is too much.

From containers, packaging, appliances, plates, cups, and so forth. All has gravely
impacted the environment. An estimated 46,000 pieces of plastic occupy each square
mile of ocean. Consequently, at least two thirds of the world’s fish stocks are 
suffering from plastic ingestion.

Moreover and as I’ve written [before](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/04/new-research-exposes-a-crisis-in-the-global-trade-of-recyclable-plastics/):

GAIA’s field investigations in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand detailed illegal
recycling operations. As well as crime syndicates, open burning, water contamination,
crop death, and a rise of illness tied to environmental pollution. So that has led
citizens to protest and governments to rush in restrictions. All to protect their
borders, many following China’s lead with import bans.

### ![Plastic waste that could be recyclable before being sorted in dumps](https://i2.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com//srv/htdocs/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/pexels-photo-802221-1.jpg?resize=135%2C89&ssl=1)

Data indicates that Southeast Asia’s current plastics crisis is the pinnacle of 
a global experience. With waste piling up globally and domestically for all countries
involved. Ironically even former exporters. So across the board, plastic waste exports
dropped almost 50 percent. That’s from 12.5 million tons in 2016 to 5.8 million 
tons in 2018 (available data from January to November 2018). Because plastic manufacturing
is projected to rise, this drop in exports in part means ‘recyclable’ plastics will
continue to stockpile or head for improper disposal at home.

Alternative materials, such as reclaimed wood, steel, and glass can help gradually
reduce our reliance on plastic. Also it will pose less of an impact on the Earth
like reclaimed wood. So reducing plastic use can range from short term decisions.
That’s like swapping plastic sandwich bags for washable canvas or throwaway plastic
utensils for metal ones. Also to more long term changes, such as trading in your
plastic [picnic](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/02/how-to-choose-an-eco-friendly-shade-for-your-backyard/)
tables for reclaimed wood barn tables. Finally,  smart swaps can make a big difference
over time.

Source: [PutDownThePlastic](https://www.custommade.com/blog/put-down-the-plastic/)

### 󠀁[⌊Reclaimed wood Not plastic⌉⌊Reclaimed wood Not plastic⌉󠀁[

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric
Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green
Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For 
Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke #
Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power
System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow.

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