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5 Reasons to Declare Your Independence from Plastics

This July 4, why not go all Thomas Jefferson on single-use plastics?

Right now, plastic pollution is having a major impact on the health of our oceans, rivers, and lakes—and the aquatic animals we love. If current practices continue, plastic input into the ocean is expected to double by 2025. Here are five great reasons to consider a change.

1. Animals already can't escape it.

Plastic debris can now be found in almost every marine habitat on Earth—from polar sea ice to major ocean gyres to the bottom of the deepest ocean trench.

2. So many are impacted.

At least 26 species of cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) have been documented as ingesting plastic debris.

3. It's not just oceans.

Plastic debris in lakes and rivers has been found to be as high, or higher, than in oceanic gyres.

4. It's impacting birds ...

It’s estimated that over 99 percent of all seabird species—and over 90 percent of individual seabirds—will have ingested plastic by 2050.

5. ... and turtles!

52 percent of sea turtle species worldwide have ingested plastic.

So What Can We Do?

Here are four simple ways you can start to declare independence from plastics:

1. Choose reusables instead of single-use plastics.

2. Skip the straw. Drink straight from the cup.

3. Bring your reusable bag and pass on a plastic one.

4. Share these tips with family and friends!

(Oh and it's not too late to sign up for our 30-Day Plastics Challenge)