3 everyday items you can use today to replace those plastic ones!

Plastic waste has become such a dire issue around the world. The handy, yet nonbiodegradable material has now made its way into our ecosystems, our oceans and the air we breathe. These may not seem striking, but the adverse effects of plastic production has forced many individuals to reconsider, as well as reevaluate, alternatives that are less detrimental to our environment.

Japan is no exception, and many entrepreneurs and businesses within the country are going above and beyond to find substitutes that can one day be considered the norm. Here are a few organizations, individuals and companies working to find eco-friendly alternatives to plastic.

MYSTRO Straws – beautifully crafted ceramic straws

 

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Many restaurants and cafes are becoming self-aware with the growing concerns regarding waste and sustainability. While many establishments are searching for ways to root out plastics in the food and service industry, MYSTRO may be able to serve up an alternative to the conventional straw.

MYSTRO straws are made from ceramic and are enveloped in different colours and designs, which helps to express the artisan side of the company’s work. These straws, which draw their designs from traditional artwork and colors, are entirely safe for reuse and have a shelf life that may last years. Furthermore, the traditional designs used are derived from Mino-yaki ware, which is a traditional pottery native to the Gifu prefecture. MYSTRO straws are obviously reusable and may help consumers, companies, and food services rethink what it really means to be sustainable.

Just Smile – 100% sustainable toothbrush

It may come as no surprise knowing that most of us have at least one toothbrush at home. Dental hygiene has become a daily routine for most of us, but maybe not as sustainable for the environment. It is said that replacing your toothbrush every three to four months is advisable, so it’s easy to realize how much plastic waste this might accumulate.

If you are looking for a sustainable option, Just Smile has you covered. Founded in Tokyo, this startup has since moved its headquarters to Belgium. Although this may be true, the company’s toothbrushes can still be found in Japan and online.

 

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Just Smile is providing its users with a 100% sustainable toothbrush made out of bamboo. The company doesn’t stop there; the toothbrushes are also wrapped in 100% biodegradable packaging. Moreover, Just Smile’s website also provides an entertaining video regarding the proper waste management for its toothbrushes.

Outreach is also done with other organizations such as the Educate For, an NGO group an international organization working in Chile, Peru and Japan. For every toothbrush purchased, a pencil is donated to the NGO in order to realize a sustainable future for all of humankind. Just Smile has also expanded its products to cutlery, bottles and handmade breathing masks.

Taberareru Hashi – the chopsticks you can actually eat

Japan prides itself on the art of using chopsticks. The majority of people, including foreigners, who reside in Japan use chopsticks with their meals on a daily basis. Unfortunately, chopsticks are often made out of plastic or wood. Although the plastic chopsticks are somewhat reusable, they certainly do not just disappear once they are thrown away.

One clever solution in order to get rid of such waste is to take matters into your own hands… and then eat it. This is exactly what Taberareru Hashi has done by creating edible chopsticks that are also good for your health. These edible chopsticks provide a high intake of fiber, which is six times the dietary fiber content of lettuce. Taberareru Hashi’s chopstick material is made out of Igusa, an plant native to the Kumamoto Prefecture of Japan. It’s also surprising to know that this is the same material also used to make tatami floors in Japanese-style housing.

The chopsticks are used in the same manner as the conventional items found almost everywhere in the country. Except after completing your meal, the chopsticks are meant to be broken down into mouth-sized bits and eaten. Although there are quite a few alternatives to plastics, it’s quite rare to find utensils that are readily edible and good for your health. Taberareru Hashi provides a sustainable approach to cooking utensils. It is also undoubtedly a great source of fiber for individuals who may lack the plant-based nutrient in their diet.

Finding your own plastic alternatives

It’s no secret that Japan has a dirty love affair with plastic. In fact, Japan is the highest consumer per capita of plastics following the United States. Although this may be an issue, there are a variety of ways to survive in Japan while also reducing your consumption of plastic while living in the country. Here are a few tips that might help you get started.

Bring your own Silverware

No matter where you go in Japan, everything is wrapped, enclosed or covered with plastic. By bringing your own tupperware and silverware, it is possible to significantly cut down on your waste. Heading to your favorite coffee shop before work? Make sure not to forget your reusable bottle. Do you need chopsticks that aren’t made of plastic or wood? Buy your own and use them throughout the day.

Avoid plastic bags

It’s no surprise that plastic bags are given out like candy at convenience stores and supermarkets, but it isn’t impossible to avoid them at all costs. Explaining to the retailer that a plastic bag isn’t needed usually does the trick, as well as bringing your own sack in which to carry purchased items.

Get involved

Getting involved online or through local groups in Japan is also a great option. It’s worth starting with Zerowaste.Japan. The website provides users with information regarding a plastic-free, as well as an environmentally friendly, lifestyle for those residing in the country. There is also an interactive Facebook group where individual users are able to interact with one another and share info.