But what can we do in our everyday lives to reduce this problem? We present five steps that counteract this development and make a positive contribution to our environment.

Simple steps to reduce the amount of plastic in everyday life:

• Use reusable bags: Take cloth or jute bags with you next time you go shopping. You can buy unpackaged fruit and vegetables in them and avoid pre-packaged goods. Cloth bags are durable and can be used many times, making them an environmentally friendly alternative.
• Look out for the reusable symbol: Buy food and drinks in containers that can be reused and reduce the use of disposable products, such as plates and coffee cups. Many restaurants and cafés now offer environmentally friendly alternatives or even reusable packaging. As the production of plastics generates greenhouse gases, you can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by using reusable containers.
• Give preference to clothing made from natural fibers: When buying clothing, make sure it contains as many natural fibers as possible. Especially when cleaning sports, outdoor and functional textiles, microplastics are released into the water cycle through washing.
• Aim for conscious consumption: Wearing second-hand clothes and avoiding fast fashion are a good way to reduce microplastics originating from textiles and the clothing waste mountain.
• Buy unpackaged products: When you opt for packaging-free products, you avoid ingesting harmful substances that can pose a health risk, according to reputable sources. Many supermarkets now offer loose goods, which is a good way to shop in an environmentally and health-conscious way.