Small swaps that smash waste
When it comes to reducing waste, small acts can make a big impact. We’re helping replace single-use cups with reusable ones at the Australian Open – and you can make some easy swaps in your everyday life to be part of the reuse movement.
Here are some simple ways you can reduce your reliance on single-use items and make this the summer of sustainability!
Keep calm and carry a water bottle
Plastic water bottles have a very short useful life but stick around in the environment for hundreds of years.
This summer, stay hydrated by bringing your favourite reusable drink bottle with you wherever you go. Keep your bottle somewhere handy like by the door or in your bag so you can quench your thirst, avoid unnecessary plastic and feel good about helping the environment.
Read more about how you can make a difference with your reusable water bottle.
Espresso yourself with a reusable cup
Enjoy your morning brew with less waste by bringing a reusable cup with you every time you buy a takeaway coffee. Disposable coffee cups are a major source of litter and unfortunately, they can’t be recycled through kerbside bins, which means they end up in landfill.
A reusable cup will not only save natural resources but, if you’re lucky, it will save you money too! Many cafés offer discounts for using a reusable cup.
Forgot to BYO? You can always avoid waste by dining in and taking a mindful moment to enjoy your beverage.
If you’re after an iced drink, smoothie or bubble tea, many brands offer cups with straws, so you can keep cool and avoid a soggy paper straw.
Keep your cup somewhere convenient, like in your bag or car, to help you sip sustainably.
Read more about the impact of using a reusable coffee cup.
You’ve got this in the (reusable) bag
Reusable shopping and produce bags are an excellent way to cut down on single-use items at the supermarket.
Plastic bags are usually made from virgin materials and used for a very short time before they are discarded in landfill or end up as litter.
Keep your bags somewhere convenient like in your car boot or by the door and remember to return them to their place once you’ve unpacked your shopping, ready for their next outing.
Read more about the importance of reusable bags and tips to remember them.
Single-use cutlery and straws suck
Single-use straws and cutlery made from natural materials like wood or sugarcane unfortunately still need to be put into the general rubbish bin.
To avoid waste when buying takeaway, use cutlery from home or ask for your drink without a straw.
Keeping a reusable container and cutlery in your bag or car means you’ll always be ready for lunch on the go or impromptu picnics. Reusable dinnerware is also the best choice when you’re hosting a barbecue or party at home.
Read more about how to avoid disposable dinnerware.