5 tips for talking to family and friends about plastic
We have all have had that "ohhh, you're a greenie?" reaction when people see you using plastic-free alternatives or talking about plastic pollution. Regardless it's time to talk about it, every single person should be making a difference – not just the 'greenies'.
While there is nothing wrong with being called a "greenie", it does mean talking openly about plastic pollution and cutting back on plastic seems more of a stigmatism, reserved for Tree-Huggers R US. But, like anything in life; when there's patience, understanding and motivation, you can push through the silly stereotype and educate those around you on the realities of plastic pollution – and how they can make small lifestyle choices that cause big impact. Birkenstocks and tempeh optional.
5 tips for talking about cutting back on plastic:
1. Stop, collaborate and listen. What are people saying about plastic pollution and cutting back on plastic? Is it: "I don't have time to make my own wraps, "I don't know where to get plastic-free snacks", "it's too expensive"? Or the common one "we're all screwed anyway"? Listen to their reasoning and educate them – in a way that makes sense and isn't belittling. Such as "Yeah, I found it hard at first too, but once I found these products/this recipe/got in the habit of bringing my bag it was easy." And yeah, yeah we're all screwed – but isn't is worthwhile fighting for a brighter future anyway?
2. Back it up. Have some awesome examples of regular Joe individuals and companies who are making a difference in plastic pollution.
3. Just chill. Don't hound people about it. Seriously. It will put them right off. Keep doing your thing, and when the times right to have casual talks about plastic pollution, do it. When people see you making a conscious effort it makes them think. It's then that you can casually, openly ask people their opinion. "So what do you think about Keep Cups/reusable bags/metal straws"?
4. Tough love. Someone you're close to a serial single-use plastic user and want to get them on the good side? Hit them with some cold hard facts about why plastic sucks. It may wake 'em up. Follow this with how to make a difference.
5. Check, mate. Feel like you've made a difference to someone's view, and their starting to cut back on plastic? HELL TO THE YES! Keep that train rolling, by inspiring them to keep going, and checking in on their progress. Heck, even make it a competition!