By Raven Warren
As we approach the final week of Plastic Free July, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our progress and commit to ongoing efforts to reduce our plastic footprint. At Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, we’re dedicated to sustainability and conservation, and we encourage everyone to join us in this mission. According to National Geographic, eight million tons of plastic waste escape into the oceans from coastal nations each year. Additionally, millions of animals, from birds to fish to other marine organisms, are killed by plastics annually. Nearly 700 species, including endangered ones, have been affected by plastics.
Here are some practical tips to help you reduce plastic use both at home and during your visits to our precious forest. By making small changes, we can collectively make a big difference in protecting our environment and its inhabitants.
- Choose Eco-Friendly Refills Over Single-Use Plastics: Instead of using single-use items, select eco-friendly refill packs for everyday household products like cleaning supplies or dish soap. This choice helps minimize the plastic waste produced by disposable products.
- Buy Bar Soap Instead of Liquid Body Wash: Bar soaps often come in minimal or no packaging, making them a more eco-friendly choice compared to liquid body washes in plastic bottles.
- Choose Laundry Detergent in Boxes: Powdered laundry detergents in cardboard boxes are a great alternative to liquid detergents in plastic bottles. They are equally effective and often more concentrated, which means less waste overall.
- Carry a Reusable Bag: When grocery shopping or running errands, always bring a reusable bag. This reduces reliance on single-use plastic bags. For single items, consider skipping the bag altogether.
- Buy in Bulk: Reduce packaging waste by purchasing in bulk and bringing your own containers for items like grains, nuts, and spices. Bernheim members get 10% off at Peace of the Earth Refillery, a zero-waste shop offering bulk home goods and body care products, helping you eliminate single-use plastics.
- Bring a Reusable Water Bottle: We have water refill stations in the Arboretum, making it easy to stay hydrated without needing to buy bottled water. A reusable water bottle is convenient for use anywhere in your daily life, helping you reduce plastic waste wherever you go.
- Pack a Waste-Free Lunch: Use reusable containers, cutlery, and cloth napkins for your picnic. Avoid single-use items that can easily become litter.
- Support Plastic-Free Initiatives: Join our efforts by using biodegradable cups during programs like Playcosystem Happy Hour, and encouraging vendors at our events to adopt eco-friendly practices.
- Use a Reusable Coffee Cup: Join Isaac’s Coffee Club and get a branded reusable coffee cup that you can bring in for a free refill of coffee every day!
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Use the recycling and compost bins available throughout the Arboretum and natural areas to ensure that any waste generated is managed sustainably.
At Bernheim, we are committed to sustainability and have implemented several measures to reduce plastic use, including:
- Providing visitors with compostable cups, cutlery, and plates in Isaac’s Café.
- Utilizing paper bags instead of plastic ones in the Visitor Center.
- Reducing the use of coroplast signage on the grounds and exploring more sustainable alternatives.
- Eliminating plastic pots in the Horticulture department by exploring alternatives like soil blocking and biodegradable pots.
By making small changes in our daily lives, we can collectively make a significant impact. Let’s use the final days of Plastic Free July to strengthen our commitment to a plastic-free future.
Happy Plastic Free July, and we look forward to seeing you at Bernheim Forest, where every small step towards sustainability makes a big difference!
National Geographic Society. “Plastic Pollution.” *National Geographic*, 23 Mar. 2021, www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/plastic-pollution. Accessed 25 July 2024.
