Plastic Free July | Is Plastic Ever Okay?

The Complicated Reality of Sustainable Packaging

Every July, millions around the world take on the Plastic Free July Challenge. A movement to reduce single use plastics and raise awareness of our everyday consumption habits. At Bare Necessities, we're all for cutting out plastic wherever possible. But let’s be real, when it comes to sustainable packaging, the answer isn’t always black and white. 

So, is plastic ever okay? The truth is, it’s complicated.

The Problem with Single Use Plastic 

Single use plastic is the villain we all see and recognise. It’s cheap, convenient and everywhere. From wrapping your vegetables to storing your shampoo, it’s a packaging option that we reach out to. It often ends up in landfills or oceans, harming ecosystems and taking centuries to decompose. 

This is exactly the kind of practice that we’re trying to ditch. 

But Not All Plastic is the Same

Here’s where it gets tricky: not all plastic is created to be equal. When used thoughtfully, certain types of plastic, such as the ones that are durable or reusable, can have a lower carbon footprint than energy intensive alternatives like glass or metal, particularly if they’re kept in circulation. 

So, What do We do Differently? 

At Bare Necessities, we’re committed to packaging solutions that’s kind to the planet, while being practical and accessible. 

• Glass Jars: Beautiful, sturdy and infinitely reusable. All our personal care products come packaged in it. They’re durable and once empty, can double up to store pickles, trinkets, and more! 

• Refill Pouches: Our powder to liquid products come in compostable sachets made using compostable paper, vegetable inks and tree resin. Toss it right into your compost when you’re done

• Aluminium Tins: Our deodorants come in lightweight, reusable tins. They’re easy to use and so easy to love

• Return Your Jars: And once you have too many jars or tins with you, go ahead and send them back to us! Send us back 10 empty jars or 5 Bare Glass Jars and earn rewards. We’re all about circular solutions

So, Is Plastic Ever Okay?

Here’s our take: plastic may be okay. If it’s used responsibly, reduced whenever possible and never single use. The real enemy isn’t plastic itself, but the culture of convenience and disposability.

We believe that choosing sustainable packaging isn’t just about what it’s made of, but how it’s used and where it ends up ultimately. 

What Can You Do This Plastic Free July

• Switch over to refillable and reusable packaging 

• Compost your wet waste 

• Support brands that champion circularity 

• Question your choices: Is that plastic bottle or chips packet, which you’re going to use for 5 minutes, really worth it?  

Let’s move beyond the “plastic is bad” rhetoric and embrace smarter alternative choices. This Plastic Free July, let’s prioritise progress over perfection. Sustainability at the end of the day, isn’t a one size fits all path. It’s a journey we take together.