Every year about eight million tonnes of plastic end up in our oceans posing a threat to marine life and right now, there are five massive patches of plastic in the ocean around the world - one the size of Texas.
Many people believe these statistics are put forward to scaremonger us folk but the truth is, there will be more plastic than fish in our waters by 2050 if something isn't done about it and you can help change that.
There are various things you can introduce into in your life today, to help protect and restore our oceans for generations to come and help do your part to win the war against plastic.
Buy secondhand.
Toys can be expensive but there are various choices of durable, well-made toys on offer in selling groups, charity shops and dedicated websites across Ireland just waiting to be snapped up.
Buy second-hand toys that are built to last like dollhouses, play kitchens, construction sets, Lego and wooden toys such as train sets and puzzles. In most cases, used toys are in very good condition but you could strike lucky with something that has been taken out of the box but never used and of course you will save yourself a fortune in the process.
Introduce fiver parties.
Not only are fiver parties taking away the stress of forking out silly amounts of money on gifts for children you probably don't know much about, but they are also preventing children from receiving cheap plastic toy gifts that they may have no interest in.
While some may consider it cheeky, I personally think it's genius. Instead of gifts, parents are now asking parents to pop a fiver in card to contribute to one big-ticket item that the birthday girl or boy really wants or needs.
Buy local.
Most Europeans shop local for environmental and sustainability reasons, so why can't we?
Buying local leads to reduced emissions as your product doesn't have to travel far to get to you, thus cutting down on fuel consumption and air pollution.
Most Europeans shop local for environmental and sustainability reasons, so why can't we?
By shopping from a locally owned business you receive better customer service, you will help provide jobs for your local community and most of all the environmental impact is reduced.
It's a win-win.
Stop buying plastic crap.
Quit buying plastic tatt like the toys in Happy Meals, party bags, stocking fillers and the crap you see filling up the aisles of our discount stores. Unless the toy encourages creativity and learning, is built to last and most of all is it safe for your child, don't bother investing. Otherwise, it will be doing nothing but collecting dust.
Demand plastic-free alternatives.
Plastics never go away and with the current demand, multinational companies will keep producing them while making a pretty penny. Make a stand and say no to single-use plastics such as straws, coffee cups, plastic bags, balloons, plastic cutlery, water bottles and takeaway food containers. If you can, invest in a keep cup and reusable straws - it'll make all the difference.
