We’ve put together a list of some of the top podcasts (in our view) that look at all issues and topics related to plastic free living and other green issues like climate change, pollution and general sustainability. Some quite in-depth, others with a more irreverant style - but all interesting and entertaining.
In no particular order…
Lots of podcasts on all types environmental issues (359 at the time of writing). Latest episode on the community-led reintroduction of beavers to Braunton and how that has helped the river and wetland environment there. There’s also an interesting podcast on plastic pollution and how to stop 6 countries burning plastic waste with no controls.
A really down to earth podcast that tackles a range of sustainable and environmental issues. We particularly like the recent podcast on plastic free living and “busting the myths” that surround it. Like how you don't need to stop all plastic purchases in one go - simply pick one or some swaps and build on that.
Well informed and tackling lots of subjects around plastic free living and pollution. The latest episode talks about plastic alternatives and ‘air carbon’ science.
Exploring the stories behind the headlines on climate change with heavy-hitting hosts and guests. The latest podcast looks at the recent IPCC report on climate change.
5. The Circular Economy Show (Ellen MacArthur Foundation)
Exploring the circular economy and the systemic change needed to get there. Looking at the global economy and how to make it work. It’s business oriented but still accessible and has some leading guests in the areas of politics, design, business and academia.
This is a lot less serious in approach but still covers all the environmental issues in a weekly podcast format. The two hundred and twenty third episode covers the wellbeing economy with Dr Katherine Trebeck.
From Friends of the Earth who have been campaigning on environmental issues for 50 years (since 1971!). A regular podcast providing latest news and deep-dives into climate and sustainable issues.
Each podcast interviews an expert on environmental/climate change issues. An interesting interview with Allison Cobb whose new book “Plastic – An Autobiography” exposes how this material, that can endure for generations, has been wilfully categorised as a ‘single use’ disposable product becoming as ubiquitous as food with a highly toxic indigestible after-life.
Brought to you by the World Wildlife Fund, this series Includes an interview with Sir David Attenborough. As well as a thought provoking episode on plastc pollution with Steve Backshall and Georgia May Jagger.
Former Irish president, Mary Robinson, comedian-writer, Maeve Higgins, and series producer, Thimali Kodikara host this (now 3rd) series of podcasts on climate justice with a feminist perspective. The latest episdode has a discussion with Bernie Sanders.
We hope you find some podcasts in the above list that interest you or if we’ve missed your favourite – let us know in the comments below. And once you’ve been inspired, you can shop for your plastic free products – even while you're listening!
]]>This July we will donate 10% of all sales to plasticfreejuly.org. We are really proud to support the cause here in the UK. Plastic Free July® is a global movement that helps millions of people be part of the solution to plastic pollution – so we can have cleaner streets, oceans, and beautiful communities. Will you be part of Plastic Free July by choosing to refuse single-use plastics?
You can join 326 million global participants and take the official plastic free challenge here.
Shop all our products this July and know that 10% of your spend will go towards supporting the plastc free cause.
]]>At allplasticfree.com we make it easy to go plastic free and have curated what we think are the best and simplest swaps to remove the plastic from your bathroom and importantly, our oceans and natural environment.
]]>The best solution is just to swap the plastic for something more sustainable, biodegradable and eco-friendly. You can make your day-to-day bathroom routine completely plastic free with our list of simple swaps….
1. Toothbrush
Toothbrushes can be entirely made of plastic and have to be replaced after a few months. These can be swapped for a bamboo version. Bamboo has natural antibacterial properties so is an ideal substitute material for a plastic toothbrush. Being a natural material, bamboo is biodegradable meaning it’s eco-friendly when it comes to replacing with a new one.
Toothpaste is water based so a plastic tube is an ideal material for stabilising the paste inside but not so good for the environment. These tubes are difficult to recycle because they are made from multiple materials and different types of plastic – even in a single tube. Toothpaste tablets remove the water so plastic containers are less of a requirement. It’s a good idea to ensure you toothpaste tablets have flouride also.
Recycle your last plastic razor and swap to a double edge safety razor. Many of these are made from metal and sometimes with a wooden or bamboo handle. Not only are they non-plastic they are re-useable - often lasting for years, they are therefore zero waste too.
4. Razor blades
If you’ve decided to go for the double edge safety razor, then you’ll need the blades too. Again these are made of metal (stanless steel) so are a perfect swap for the single-use plastic disposable razor catridges that come with the big brand offerings. Make sure you go for the ones packaged in cardboard and where the blades are individually wrapped in waxed paper. You’ll need to replace these more often so having them packaged in plastic each time would defeat the object. The razor blades are disposable but do ensure you dispose of them carefully. Some people use a razor bank (think piggy bank for razor blades) or you can wrap them in toilet tissue and throw away in the normal rubbish.
5. Shaving soap
Swap the shaving foam with the plastic lids and the shaving gels in plastic tubes for a bar of shaving soap. Again you’ll be replacing this every so often so remember to make sure it comes in plastic free packaging too. Most come in cardboard boxes so look out for these. Having a soap that produces a good creamy lather without the need for a shaving brush is really useful. Not only does it negate the need for buying a shaving brush, it’s also really useful when travelling lite as the shaving soap and razor is all you need.
6. Shampoo
Most of the big brands have their shampoos in plastic bottles. These products can be swapped really simply for a shampoo bar. Similar to a bar of soap, you just rub the bar onto your hair for a lather as good as your current shampoo - if not better! They come packaged in a cardboard box which is compostable/biodegradable and therefore much better from a sustainable point of view.
7. Conditioner
Similar to shampoo, a bar of hair conditioning soap works in exactly the same way and keeps your hair in great condition. Again also packaged in cardboard.
You can swap the plastic shower gel bottles for a bar of soap. It’s immensly satisfying to finish a bar of soap and have literally nothing to throw away. As with the shampoo and conditioner these come in 100% recycable cardboard boxes.
There are many types to choose from, but it’s a good idea to select one that's free of all the nasties like animal testing, sulfates, plastic, preservatives and palm oil.
The range of ‘Friendly Soap’ branded soaps are perfect in this respect and the range to covers a wide number of specific needs; be it a general purpose soap like the Orange & Grapefruit, the exfoliating and refreshing Lemongrass & Hemp or a nice Detox bar. The Aloe Vera variety is a perfect soap for washing your hands. It’s minimal ingredients and nourishing natural oils mean you can handwash more frequently safe in the knowledge your hands won’t dry out or be subject to chemical overload.
If you’ve got a hand soap, a soap for the shower, and a shampoo and conditioner bar, you’ll need to get some soap dishes. When using natural soaps, it’s a good tip to keep them in a free draining dish rather than just left on the side of the bath or sink. A natural soap generally needs to stay as dry as possible when not in use unlike those with preservatives. A dish with drainage holes will make your soap last longer. You can find them made from ceramic, wood or bamboo.
Finishing touches...
9. Deodorant
A plastic free alternative for deodorant will keep you feeling clean and fresh all day. There are many types out there from creams or balms to stick deodorants. The balms can be less than easy to apply and there are many natural deodorants that contain sodium bicarbonate which can be a skin irritant leaving a rash on the armpits. An effective alternative is the mineral salt crystal deodorant by Salt of the Earth. It’s a simple solid block of mineral salt crystal (potassium alum) that when applied to wet skin will leave an invisible layer that inhibits bacteria that cause armpit odours. It’s fragrance free too so won’t compete with your cologne or perfume. A single block will last for months so is cost effective.
10. Comb
So you’ve brushed your teeth, had a shave, washed your hair, had a shower and deodorised - a final all important touch is combing your hair before you get on with your day! A simple bamboo comb is an inexpensive accessory and will replace your plastic brushes or combs.
You might think that going plastic free will require extra effort. Using all the above products adds no time to your busy daily routine.
At allplasticfree.com we make it easy to go plastic free and have curated what we think are the best and simplest swaps to remove the plastic from your bathroom and importantly, our oceans and natural environment.
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As you’ve probably guessed from the website’s name ‘allplasticfree.com’, we stock these razors because they are plastic free. It fits with our mission to be as zero waste as possible - with simple swaps that won’t dramatically alter your lifestyle and bathroom routine.
This particular razor with the stainless steel head and bamboo wooden handle, is a practical and easy to use razor. Plus, it looks a lot more stylish in your bathroom than a plastic disposable razor! The simplicity and lack of any moving parts means there’s nothing to break. This razor could very well last a lifetime. The bamboo handle is the perfect material because of it’s naturally antibacterial properties. The bamboo grain only improves with use, going a darker and richer colour over time.
There’s nothing quite like a traditional wet shave to get a smooth, close and satisfying shave. For a great shaving experience this razor, hot water and our shaving soap bar (from Friendly Soap) is the perfect combination. The lavender and tea tree oil shaving soap will lubricate the skin. You can apply the soap straight to your skin and by lathering up in your hands. There’s no need for a shaving brush. Then, shave as normal - as you would with any other disposable razor. You should go slightly more carefully the first time you use your double edge safety razor until you get used to the blade and safety head against your skin. It doesn’t take long to get used to your new razor though and it’s the same wet shaving technique you’re probably already used to.
Firstly, and pretty obviously, the razor blades are very sharp so do be careful.
The safety razor head has a top and bottom section, sandwiching the razor blade securely in place.
Simply turn the razor upside down (razor head down) and unscrew the handle from the head. The razor head’s bottom section then lifts off to reveal the blade. Carefully swap out the blade for a new one (it doesn’t matter which way up you put the blade). The blades have holes that match up with the guides (prongs) in the head’s top section. Once the new blade is in place, put the bottom section back on and screw onto the bamboo handle. The whole process takes less than a minute. Watch a quick demo below:
It’s true that you do need to replace the razor blade when it’s blunt and dispose of it safely. The good news is the blade is metal - so no plastic used and thrown away.
Instead of subscribing to a company that will send you plastic handled razors and disposable, plastic blade cartridges.... Go plastic free with our eco-friendly shaving kit using the links below:
Your shave just got even more satisfying!
]]>There are lots of eco-friendy alternative toothpaste choices on the market but we’ve landed on our toothpaste tablets from DENTTABS. They fit with our mission to be as zero waste as possible - a simple swap that won’t dramatically alter your lifestyle and bathroom routine.
There are many advantages of these toothpaste tabs but the top one for us is the tablet format means plastic free packaging. Most of the main toothpaste brands package their paste in plastic tubes. This is so the water-based paste (around 50% is water) stays stabilised and doesn’t leak.
Take the water away and you have more packaging options. We’ve gone with a simple glassine paper bag for the 14 tablet trial pack size. For the larger 180 tablet (3 month) supply we’ve included an aluminium tin to store them in.
Also, if you take the water away, you also take away the need for some of the chemicals used to stabilise the water-based paste. And reducing the chemicals needed is also a good thing.
This is the closest toothpaste alternative we’ve tried so far that has that minty toothpaste taste. Some eco-friendly alternative toothpastes have a rather disappointing aftertaste or are just bitter from start to finish. So it’s nice to find the alternative that has that refreshingly minty taste (like a toothpaste really!)
Also important is the fact that these DENTTABS have Fluoride - not all toothpaste tablets have it. Most normal toothpastes have Fluoride in them including all the major choices from the likes of Colgate or Oral-B. So having Fluoride is also a major positve in choosing these toothpaste tabs – not all toothpaste tablets have it. The science says that Fluoride aids the remineralisation of the enamel on your teeth and strengthens the enamel.
They have the same 1,450 parts per million (ppm) of Fluoride as most standard Fluoride toothpastes. One advantage of the tablet form is that the concentration of fluoride is kept at the 1,450ppm throughout the life of the tablet whilst being stored. In a standard water-based toothpaste the Fluoride can degrade to up to 80% less over 4 months. So you may well be getting more Fluoride in your tablet than in your tube of toothpaste.
If you’re used to toothpaste in paste form then how you use the tabs will be slighly different but no more complicated than toothpaste. It’s a case of popping one in your mouth and chewing into a paste (this only takes around 10 seconds) then brush as normal with a wet toothbrush. You’ll notice that it’s non foaming and therefore might feel more watery in the mouth than frothy but it’s still effective.
Using a single tablet each time you brush means you know you’re getting the right amount (no measuring out pea size amounts of paste!).
Ideally you’d use a soft/medium bristled manual toothbrush as it aids the polishing action of the toothpaste tablets. You’ll be glad to know you can buy a plastic free bamboo toothbrush right here. The Microcrystalline Cellulose ingredient gently polishes the teeth rather than any abrasive action.
You might think that chewing a tablet into a powder and paste would mean that there would be an abrasive action against your teeth but actually these tablets have very low abrasion. In fact the RDA (Relative Dentin Abrasion) for the DENTTABS toothpaste tablets is a low score of 30. To give you an idea of what that means: brushing with only water has an RDA of 4 and Colgate Total has an RDA of 70 (still a low abrasion score).
The idea is that the tabs polish your teeth leaving a very smooth surface making it more difficult for for plaque to get a grip.
Microcrystalline Cellulose, Sodium Bicarbonate, Silica, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Magnesium Stearate, Aroma (Natural Mint Flavour), Menthol, Xanthan-Gum, Stevioside, Citric Acid, Sodium Fluoride, Eugenol.
What the ingredients do:
Microfine cellulose fibers (Microcrystalline Cellulose) that can polish your teeth ultra smoothly even into the interdental spaces. Therefore, new particles on the tooth surfaces can simply bead off, plaque can hardly arise in the first place. No plaque – no tooth decay!
Sodium bicarbonate, also known as “soda”, together with citric acid (Citric Acid), sets the pH of the tablet to a neutral pH during brushing.
Silica is amorphous silicon dioxide, which acts as a soft brush and helps to remove any soft biofilm.
Amisoft (Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate) is a mild, natural surfactant (soap) from plant proteins. When cleaning, it helps to combine proteins, fats and carbohydrates with water to flush them out while rinsing. Sodium lauroyl glutamate should not be confused with the “glutamates” used in the food industry as a flavor enhancer – DENTTABS Toothpaste Tablets are glutamate and gluten free.
Magnesium Stearate is the magnesium soap of stearic acid, a herbal adjuvant necessary for tablet manufacture.
The natural (mint) aroma, together with the stevia extract and the menthol, provides the pleasant freshness of DENTTABS toothpaste tablets, as well as the unmistakably cool “freshness afterwards”.
Xanthan Gum In the DENTTABS toothpaste tablets, it ensures the pleasant creaminess after chewing.
Stevia (Stevioside) is a sweet-tasting plant that, together with the aroma and the menthol, provides the good taste. The steviosides are not sugar, but proteins that have a characteristic sweet taste. Therefore, steviosides can also cause no tooth decay.
Citric acid regulates the pH value together with sodium bicarbonate (see above) and stimulates the salivation. The increased salivation causes a faster remineralization of the tooth surfaces.
Sodium fluoride – It is used for the remineralization of the enamel and can especially help with sensitive tooth necks, but also with incipient caries. Because DENTTABS Toothpaste Tablets are “dry”, it only develops its full effect with the application.
Eugenol is part of the natural mint flavor. Eugenol is also known as a characteristic flavor of cloves.
Because DENTTABS toothpaste tablets are “dry”, means water-free, we don’t need any preservatives and germ-inhibiting substances. DENTTABS Toothpaste Tablets contain neither aluminum nor nanoparticles.
(Ingredients information taken from the DENTTABS website)
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