Hot Docs: Clean Coal Program Shift 'Not Well Considered,' Plastics in the Ocean

We don't need to wait for manufacturers to realize the problems their packaging causes. As consumers, we can already choose products with less packaging. Shopping stores (like Whole Foods and local natural foods stores) that provide bulk bins and filling up our own containers will send a message to retailers and manufacturers that we care about the environmental problems created by packaging waste. Bringing our own bags, bottles, and containers wherever we go are other ways to cut down the amount of plastic waste we produce.

Sending back unwanted packaging to companies is a further step to help them "get the message." These steps are not hard. They just require a little bit of forethought and the willingness to do something for the world outside ourselves.

My blog, Fake Plastic Fish (http://www.fakeplasticfish.com) lists the many, many ways I have personally found to reduce my plastic consumption and plastic waste and has been helpful to others trying to reduce theirs as well. Stop by.

Beth Terry of CA 10:53PM March 16, 2009