5 Ways to Reduce Plastic While on Holiday
We are all now painfully aware of the harmful impact of plastic pollution on our beautiful planet. The challenges ahead can seem overwhelming, but many of us are already determined to reduce our reliance on plastic, particularly unnecessary single-use packaging.
With this in mind, here are five ways for you to minimise your plastic footprint whilst enjoying a self-catering holiday in the West Country…
5 Ways to Reduce Your Plastic Footprint on Holiday
Buying from Farmers’ Markets…
The West Country is renowned for its bustling farmers’ markets, crammed with stalls full of the freshest farm-grown produce. Whether you need to pick up a cottage loaf and a jar of local organic honey, or you’re stocking up for a barbeque and require some choice cuts of meat and some crisp garden salad, a farmers’ market is the ideal place to purchase top quality fayre with the minimum amount of plastic packaging.
Organic Meat & Veg Boxes…
If you’re pushed for time or don’t want to waste a second of your precious holiday on anything food shopping related, you can order in a box of fresh produce from one of the growing number of organic and ethical food producers and farming cooperatives. With networks across the South West, initiatives such as Riverford Farm Organics and Pretty Local will deliver direct to your doorstep (or hidey place) with minimum fuss and minimum plastic. It’s a win-win!
Supporting Independent Traders…
The convenience of supermarket shopping is always compelling, however, supporting local high streets and independent stores is a great way to lower your plastic footprint. Buying fresh over the counter and not from the shelf is one way to avoid extra packaging. It also provides you with a great opportunity to explore the local area and have a mooch around the shops while enjoying a conversation or two with the locals, and maybe grabbing yourself a bargain. Don’t forget to bring along a reusable shopping bag or basket.
How to Pack Less Plastic…
There are lots of ways we can reduce the amount of plastic in our travel bags and carry cases. Try to avoid purchasing those holiday impulse buys, such as miniature toiletries and disposable grooming products, instead opting for eco-friendly options, such as natural soaps and bamboo toothbrushes. Use Tupperware and pack picnics for your days out, and top up your reusable water bottles at the start of the day rather than having to purchase plastic bottles of water. If you’re staying at one of Toad Hall’s dog-friendly cottages, why not use a compostable corn starch poop bag when you’re out and about exploring the gorgeous countryside with your four-legged friend.
Doing Your Bit…
Sadly, even the stunning South West isn’t immune to the problem of plastic and ocean-bound rubbish. Our beaches are among the cleanest and safest in Europe, however, if you do come across some unwelcome jetsam you can always do your bit by escorting the offending item(s) to the nearest bin. Most of our coastal areas have dedicated teams of volunteers who regularly sweep up any unwanted rubbish, so there are often clearly visible rubbish collection points. There are also often organised beach clean events, such as the South Hams Beach Clean Series in South Devon, where you can join like-minded locals and visitors to do your bit to help keep our beautiful coastline clean.
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