As much as I love to talk about fashion and cosmetic industry, there is nothing more I care about than our planet we live in. We need to protect the ocean that gives us the oxygen to breathe, that regulates the climate and brings us clean water to drink. There is ONLY one ocean that covers our planet we live in.

A 2014 study estimated that 8 million metric tons of plastic trash enter the sea from land every year. 90% of the plastic is not recycled and this creates a major problem. Why? Because plastics are synthetic chemicals that should not exist in our planet. Most plastics are not biodegradable (meaning the bacteria cannot break them down into harmless components the way it happens to the paper or wood). The worse happens when plastic ages; the sun’s light and heat break the plastic into smaller and smaller pieces. This tiny plastic confetti, along with larger pieces of floating plastic, creates a dangerous problem to our health and our planet .

Plastic pollution is a massive global problem, but it is not something that we cannot solve. Together we can make positive changes, and raise awareness in our society. If we don’t start now, imagine how our ocean will look after 50 years? Certainly, there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean.

Here’s a list of steps I took the past few years, which you can practice too:

Carry eco-friendly reusable shopping bags

I own few canvas bags, and have one in each purse I carry. They are not just eco-friendly, but stronger than plastic bags. As well as, a great alternative, not just for groceries but also for whatever I shop. Choose whatever works for you the best, like reusable canvas shopping bags, a backpack or a messenger bag. If you have a car, keep your shopping bags in it, and remember to bring them with you when you go shopping.

Don’t buy plastic bottled water

There are tons of great reusable stainless steel bottles you can buy everywhere. Just fill it up with tap water, or with your favorite homemade juice and refill it wherever you happen to be. You should avoid using reusable plastic or aluminum bottles, because it may leach chemicals into the water; read here why this happens. Here is also a good article about how to avoid plastic water bottles, if you can’t drink the tap water.

Quit drinking sodas and other plastic-bottled drinks

I am trying to eat fresh fruits instead of buying a juice, or I try to make my own juices and smoothies at home. Cutting out sodas and all sugary juices will not just save the planet, but also your health.

Carry a stainless steel travel mug for coffee/tea

Since I quit drinking coffee, I don’t even think about to bring my coffee bottle with me, but if you are a coffee/tea drinker on the go, then carry a stainless steel mug to refill the drink you purchase.

Don’t use plastic straws

Instead buy reusable stainless steel or glass straws. When at the bar, let the barkeeper know that you get a drink without the straws. Alternative, carry reusable drinking straws with you.

Carry your own food containers for take-away food

This could be a bit difficult, but if you plan it earlier you’ll do this naturally. Try to use your own food containers, instead of accepting the take-out restaurants plastic containers. If this is sometimes not possible, at least refuse unnecessary things like the straws, cutlery, and napkins that you get served.

Say NO to plastic wrapped food

Depending where you live, try to buy fresh food from the farmers market or not plastic wrapped food from the supermarket.

Say no to ice-cream plastic boxes

Instead you can better enjoy an ice-cream cone. If you want to bring the ice-cream home, then use your own glass containers.

Use your old cotton shirts as cleaning cloths

Don’t trash the destroyed t-shirts and cotton clothes, instead cut them in squares, and use them as natural cleaning cloths. They can be washed, and re-used each time you need to clean a surface.

Switch from a plastic razor to a premium steel shaver

I found the best one here. (not sponsored, just love)

Buy eco-friendly bamboo toothbrushes

Stop buying plastic toothbrushes, instead switch to sustainable, biodegradable and fully organic toothbrushes, such as the Bamboogaloo or the Humble Brush. (not sponsored, just love)

Avoid buying fast-fashion

Tons of fast-fashion is made from synthetic materials, such as plastic fabric like: polyester, nylon, acrylic, and other synthetic fibers. These synthetic fabrics create microfiber pollution, which pollute the oceans even just washing them. When you buy new clothes, look for organic cotton, hemp, ethically-raised wool, and other natural fibers. My favorite ethical brands are: Stella McCartney, Reformation, Soster Studio, Amour Vert, Aiayu, Bamboo Clothing, Starseeds and Studio Jux.

Buy less, but choose well

“Buy Less, Choose Well and Make It Last” – these wise words were spoken by iconic British designer Vivienne Westwood. In an interview she also highlighted that clothes should cost more than they do. I must confess that in the past I bought lot of clothes which were from the fast-fashion brands, but I am trying to sell all these pieces and not trash them. At least, I know someone else will enjoy my pre-owned pieces and I hope they can be worn for a long time. However, since last year I started slowly to tailor my clothes with the best and high-quality fabrics. It can be a bit more pricey, but I know that these pieces are unique and they showcase my personal style, and can lead to a timeless look that endures.

There is a lot more plastic we need to stop consuming, but if we start following these steps, we will make huge positive changes for our planet.

Are you already taking these steps and looking for ways to reduce waste for a better future?

*Disclosure: This post is 100% not sponsored.