Small changes, big impact: how to beat plastic pollution at home

World Environment Day on 5 June is a great reminder that real change doesn’t need to start with big institutions – it starts at home, and it starts with us.

This year’s theme, Beat Plastic Pollution, is all about facing the problem head-on and making smarter, more sustainable choices in our everyday lives. While the stats are eye-opening – Australia generates 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste each year, with only about 13 per cent getting recycled – the solutions don’t have to be daunting.

Let’s protect the places we love

Here at Living Gems, we know how lucky we are to live in some of Australia’s most beautiful locations. And while the problems of the world can feel overwhelming, taking small, practical steps in our own homes is something we can control.

This World Environment Day, let’s commit to doing our bit – because every plastic-free swap helps protect the places we love and keeps them thriving for future generations.

Rethink your kitchen routine

The kitchen is often ground zero for plastic use, but it’s also one of the easiest places to clean things up.

Ditch the cling wrap and give beeswax wraps or silicone lids a go – they’re reusable and just as handy. Swap out plastic sandwich bags for reusable containers or even paper-based wraps. And when it comes to pantry staples like rice, pasta or nuts, buying in bulk and using refill stations can seriously cut down your plastic load.

Smarter swaps in the bathroom

If there’s one room that’s quietly churning through plastic, it’s the bathroom. But the good news is it’s just as easy to clean up your act here too.

Go for solid bars instead of bottled shampoo, conditioner and body wash – they last longer and cut the plastic waste. For extra eco brownie points, try bamboo toothbrushes, compostable floss and reusable makeup remover pads. It’s simple stuff that makes a big difference.

Make it easy to do the right thing

Let’s be honest – habits are easier to stick to when they’re convenient.

Keep reusable bags and coffee cups in your car or handbag so they’re always within reach. Say no to plastic-wrapped fruit and veg when you shop, or use mesh produce bags some supermarkets now sell. If plastic bags do sneak in, reuse them as bin liners rather than tossing them straight away.

Turn trash into treasure

Want to help the planet and your Homeowners’ Committee at the same time? Containers for Change is a brilliant program that gives you ten cents back for every eligible plastic bottle – water, soft drinks, juice under a litre, sports drinks and the like.

It’s a great way to raise funds for community projects, while keeping plastic out of landfill and waterways.