It was in 1907 that the first entirely man-made plastic material was created and soon became the rage. As this material was lightweight and strong, it was used for making almost anything ranging from telephones to kitchenware to toys, plumbing, and fancy jewelry.

It was in 1948 that Tupperware was introduced as the first plastic packaging material and since then plastic has been used extensively to package all kinds of assorted materials. However, there is a major downside to the use of plastic; this includes its ill-effects on the health of man and most flora and fauna in the environment. It’s been known to cause hormonal imbalances as well as adverse effects on the reproductive, neurological, developmental and immune functions. It’s also a known carcinogen.

With around 300 million tons of plastic being manufactured every year, there is a growing need to reduce dependence on this disruptive material. Here are some ways to reduce your plastic waste:

• Go shopping with your own reusable bag – don’t opt for a plastic carrier bag.
• Avoid using plastic-ware in the kitchen or keep it to a minimum.
• Don’t use straws, drink directly from the glass.
• Refill your water bottles and stop buying plastic water bottles on-the-go. Carry reusable bottles from home when traveling.
• Reuse containers for storing leftovers instead of buying new plastic ones.
• Avoid taking home food in Styrofoam containers when taking a doggy-bag or a take-way.
• Prefer to buy foods in cardboard cartons instead of plastic packaging.
• Avoid buying frozen foods or processed foods as they come packaged in a thin layer of plastic.
• When you are looking for unbreakable tableware, go for steel instead of plastic or melamine.
• Reuse your plastic containers as planters and extend their use.
• Use steel or aluminum bins – avoid plastic bins.
• Give up on gum – they are basically rubberized plastic and can prove harmful to your health and the environment.
• Buy your juices and milk in Tetrapak cartons instead of plastic bottles.
• It’s estimated that plastic products take up to a thousand years to decompose. Use disposable diapers only minimally. Go for cloth diapers to minimize your baby’s carbon footprint.
• Pack your kid’s lunches in reusable containers – avoid disposables.
• And when it’s time for a party, ditch the Styrofoam plates and glasses and go with paper cups and plates. Similarly, avoid disposable plastic cutlery.

You can always work around these tips and find more ways to reduce the use of plastic in your homes.