Five strategies you can use to change your habits and reduce your plastic waste

Did you know that single-use plastics make up 40% of global plastic production? This growing problem is damaging our environment, and it's something that we can all work to reduce.
With that in mind, why not commit to reducing your single-use plastic waste this year. 

Here are five strategies you can use to change your habits and reduce your plastic waste

1. Identify the triggers that lead you to engage in the habit you want to change
For example, do you always forget to bring your reusable lid/cup when you're out for a coffee? Try placing your reusables at the door, clean them straight after use and pop them back in your bag.

Having extras for the car, office and house is a great way to cover all the bases.

2. Make a plan
This could include setting specific goals, creating a reward system for yourself, or enlisting the support of friends or family.
Click here for an easy reward system to get you started.

3. Use visualisation techniques to help you see yourself successfully changing your habits
Imagine how good you will feel once you have reduced your plastic waste and how it will positively impact the environment.

Or perhaps, imagine yourself transforming into an environmental hero, taking out your near-empty bins each week with the satisfaction of knowing you’ve lessened your footprint on the planet.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme, approximately 8 million metric tons of plastic end up in the world's oceans each year. This amount of plastic pollution has been linked to the decline of marine wildlife, including birds, fish, and sea turtles. By reducing your plastic waste, you can help to mitigate the negative impact of plastic pollution on the environment and contribute to the protection of marine life.

4. Use positive self-talk to remind yourself of your motivation for changing your habits and to reinforce the new behaviour

Every time you order a coffee, you might say to yourself: "I am motivated to use my reusable coffee cup lid/cup because it will help to reduce the amount of plastic waste that I contribute to the environment. I am making a positive impact by choosing to use a reusable lid/cup, and I feel good about doing my part to protect the planet."

By repeating this positive self-talk to yourself, you can help to reinforce your motivation and commitment to reducing your plastic waste. This can make it easier to stick to your goal and make the habit a permanent part of your routine.

According to the Australian Packaging Covenant, Australians use approximately 3 billion disposable coffee cups each year. This equates to approximately 8 million cups being used and discarded every day. While some of these cups may be recycled, the majority are likely sent to landfill.

In addition to coffee cups, it is estimated that millions of disposable coffee cup lids are also used and discarded in Australia each year. These lids, which are often made of plastic, can take hundreds of years to break down in landfill and can contribute significantly to the problem of plastic pollution.

5. Seek support from others who are also trying to reduce their plastic waste, either in person or through online communities
This can help you to stay motivated and on track.

There are a number of ways that you can seek support from others who are trying to reduce their plastic waste. Here are a few examples:

• Join a local environmental group or community organisation that focuses on reducing plastic waste. These groups often provide opportunities for individuals to connect with others who are interested in similar issues and can offer support and resources for those looking to make positive changes.
• Participate in online forums or social media groups that focus on reducing plastic waste. These communities can be a great way to connect with others who are working towards similar goals, and you can share tips, ideas, and support with one another.
• Find a friend or family member who is also interested in reducing plastic waste and work together to develop strategies and support one another as you make changes. Having an accountability partner can be a great way to stay motivated and on track.

Click here to join the Lydy Community to support your journey.

Every day presents an opportunity to take action and make the world just a bit better. Don't put too much pressure on yourself; reducing our plastic waste footprint is not something that happens overnight, but rather through continual steps in the right direction!

 Are you doing your part to help the environment? If so, I'm eager to learn how! Share any secrets or strategies that have been successful in reducing plastic waste - just send us an email. Let's make a difference together!