As we take a look around our bathrooms, it is common to see a collection of plastic containers that house our shampoo, hand soap and other products. These containers often list water as the first ingredient, contributing to the cycle of purchasing bulky plastic bottles repeatedly. This cycle not only produces greenhouse gases for manufacturing and disposal but also adds to the environmental impact of our consumption habits.
Humans worldwide generate more plastic than ever before, with an average of 122 pounds per person annually. Unfortunately, only about five percent of this plastic is recycled, according to the Department of Energy. The high rate of plastic consumption and waste is a significant contributor to environmental issues such as climate change.
Caroline Deloach, a sustainability director with Atlantic Packaging, emphasizes the importance of addressing our consumption habits in order to solve the climate problem. Businesses like Fillaree, based in Durham, are taking steps towards offering sustainable alternatives. Founder Alyssa Cherry started Fillaree with the goal of creating natural soap, shampoo and cleaners in glass bottles that customers can refill in-store. This approach makes it easier for people to reuse and refill their household products, reducing plastic waste and environmental impact.
In a world where plastic consumption is at an unprecedented level, initiatives like Fillaree offer hope for a more sustainable future. By encouraging consumers to rethink their habits and opt for refillable options, businesses are paving the way for a greener and more environmentally conscious society.