5 Ways to go Plastic Free at Collins Square

What’s the deal with single-use plastics?

It might be convenient in the moment, but like the name suggests, these plastics are completely discarded after one use - making up a large portion of landfill. In fact, a whopping 84% of plastics in Australia end up in landfill. Its predicted that if we don’t act now and change our behaviour with single-use plastics, by 2050, plastics in the ocean will outweigh fish. Its no wonder that plastic pollution is now not only seen as a waste issue but also a public health issue.

So, what can we do to change this? Well, Plastic Free July is coming up. Let’s see how you can get involved and what simple swaps will make a big impact for a more sustainable future. Here are five ways you can go plastic-free at Collins Square:

1. Ditch the Single Use Coffee Cup

As one of Melbourne’s go-to for great coffee, we understand a good caffeine addiction - but it’s time to ditch the single-use coffee cups. Up your cup game by either bringing your own reusable cup, using a cup or mug from the office, or simply take ten minutes from your work day and enjoy your favourite cuppa on location.

2. Switch to Tupperware

While plastic containers are on their way out, we absolutely encourage bringing your own tupperware to the retail plaza. For those who hate meal prepping - don’t stress! Simply bring your containers to your favourite retailer and ask them to fill it up with your favourite meals. Easy!

3. Say no to plastic lids & cutlery

If you’re able to, choose to refuse any single-use plastic lids, cutlery, straws and more. Go straw or lid free where you can, and try travel friendly cutlery sets that you can take with you wherever you go. Or better yet - pinch some stainless-steel cutlery from the office (we promise we won’t tell as long as they’re returned!). Either way, the turtles will thank you!

4. Stay hydrated with a reusable water bottle

Say goodbye to single-use plastic bottles and invest in a reusable water bottle. A single reusable switcheroo can go a long way! If you do forget to bring your water bottle along with you, don’t panic. Asking for a glass or purchasing a glass bottle can make all the difference.

5. Be mindful of your rubbish

We don’t expect you to be completely plastic-free! Plastics are impossible to avoid in our everyday lives, but you can play your part in recycling correctly. Are you recycling correctly? Only place items that you know are recyclable in recycling bins. If a recycling bin is contaminated with more than 5% of non-recyclable material, it will be sent to landfill with recyclable items included. Yikes.

Let’s do all we can to ensure a brighter, more sustainable future. Recycle, Reduce, Reuse.

You can also read more about Collin’s Square’s Sustainability Policy below.

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