Going plastic-free.

[RubberTreePlant]

Or at least, near-plastic-free.

Is it possible?

Has anyone managed it?

For some stuff I think you just need to think back to what we did in and before the 70s to work out a simple solution. Eg berries: you pick your own in June/July, enjoy some, freeze some, dry some, make some into jams, preserves etc and that’s it. They’re delicate fruit that don’t travel well but I think they’re more enjoyable when you only have them in season.

Yes. You save so many good miles (jet fuel) that way too.

DH, however, despite being a decade older than me, always claims not to know what's in season, and needs detailed instructions.

I don't think he's alone. We're losing cultural/life knowledge.

"Food miles" not good miles

We are trying really hard to avoid plastic. Some things you can do that don't cost a thing:

1. cook at home and avoid pre-packaged meals, it will save you time and money!
2. get fruit and veggies loose with produce bags ( i got mine from this site and love them! (earthbits.com/products/organic-cotton-produce-mesh-bags-set-of-3?utm_source=Mumsnet&utm_medium=Post&utm_campaign=Mumsnet_meshbagset)
3. carry a reusable bottle everywhere you go, don't buy plastic bottles
4. whenever possible, compost food waste
5. reuse glass jar and old tupperwares as containers
6. beeswax wrap instead of cling film! ( i get mine here earthbits.com/products/beeswax-wraps-starter-pack-beehive?utm_source=Mumsnet&utm_medium=Post&utm_campaign=Mumsnet_beeswax%20wraps)
7. use reusable sanitary pads or a menstrual cup
8. get reusable make up pads (or make your own with small pieces of old cotton cloth!)
9. prepare your lunch if you eat out a lot, it will save in plastic packaging. And bring your own fork!

10. Don't use baby wipes, a sponge or reusable wipes are the way forward!

I feel these are steps that are quite easy to implement to start with, good luck!