We all know the world is sea-deep in a plastic crisis. So what’s to be done? Well, here’s five ways to ban plastic from your time in Malta!
Like most places in the world, Malta is quickly falling out of love with plastic. No longer can we close our eyes to the fact that plastic is a problem – it’s everywhere, from our beautiful countryside to our gorgeous sea. Yes, the magnitude of the problem can feel overwhelming, but there are changes you can make to help put things right. In fact, here are just five tips to help make your time on the island as plastic-free as possible.
Come prepared
The Scouts got it right: it does pay to be prepared, and being prepared really is the enemy of plastic. Locally, three of our biggest plastic pollutants are plastic bags, plastic bottles and coffee cups. The easy way round them? Don’t need them in the first place – carry a tote bag with you for purchases, always BYOB (bring your own bottle – ideally a stylish steel one), and never leave the house without a reusable coffee cup.
And why stop there? You could even go one step further and carry some Tupperware and cutlery with you – perfect if you stop for a take-away or grab something from the deli. Also remember that eating in a restaurant creates a lot less waste than take out or convenience foods bought on the go, so try to dine in if you can.
Ditch the straw
There really is nothing more glorious than sipping that cocktail at sunset, watching the waves lap at the beach nearby. But look a little closer, and you’ll probably spot several straws bobbing in the water (those buggers get everywhere). The solution? Just say no. For the most part, straws are completely ‘extra’ and you can easily do without. If you can’t, ask if the establishment has paper straws, or do what I do and carry a bamboo one (#prepared). Either way, make plastic straws the enemy on your Malta holiday.
Live like a local
OK, we’ll admit – Malta doesn’t have the best track record for recycling, but we’re working on it. And we need your help. Whether you’re staying in an Airbnb, hotel or apartment, ask how you can recycle your rubbish. As a rule, most plastic can be recycled here in Malta, so make an effort to separate your waste and keep your eyes peeled for the purposely-marked plastic, paper, metal and glass bins you see dotted around the island.
Pick up after yourself
Wondering how the sea got so full of rubbish? Well, aside from illegal dumping and fishing waste, the majority was blown into the water from land. This means it is super important not to leave any mess on the beach or promenade, as it could so easily blow into the water and find itself with the fishes. As a rule, please clean up after yourself wherever you are.
Join a clean up
Want to do something virtuous while on holiday? Join a clean up! There’s a growing movement of locals and visitors that want to keep Malta as pristine as possible, and they meet regularly to clean some of the most beautiful spots on the island – including those underwater. To join them, simply follow the Malta Clean Up page on Facebook and tag along.
Bonus Tip! Is it ice-cream o’clock? Opt for a cone instead of a cup and plastic spoon. Not only does that give you more to eat, it’s waste free to boot.