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Walking the Talk: Avoiding Single Use Plastics at Sea
Did you know that most single-use plastics never get recycled? According to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), about 85 percent of plastic packaging ends up in landfills or as unregulated waste. There's something else to keep in mind: The vast majority of those single-use plastics are made from virgin sources instead of recycled materials. So although recycling single-use plastics is certainly a good idea, choosing to use them in the first place only increases the amount of plastic circulating in the world. But there is a solution: avoiding single-use plastics right from the start. Plaine Products partners with the MicroActivist Foundation to do exactly that. Plaine Products makes it possible for the MicroActivist to completely eschew single-use plastics on the foundation's seaborne research, filming, and education platform, the sailing catamaran MicroActivist. Avoiding Single Use Plastics at Sea Avoiding doesn't mean going without. For example, personal care products are a huge source of plastics and microplastics in the environment, but the crew of the MicroActivist gets around that by stocking their ship with Plaine Products' personal care products in refillable aluminum containers. When a product runs low, all they have to do is order a refill. When the refill arrives in the mail, it's shipped in 100% recycled (and recyclable) packaging. They use the same packaging, and the enclosed free return label, to send the empty bottles back for reuse. This circular process means no waste, and the crew is completely avoiding single use plastic. But there's more. The MicroActivist Foundation was founded based on the passion of one young man — Connor Berryhill — for protecting the ocean and its creatures. His first initiatives, starting at the age of just five years old, were recruiting other kids to join him in beach clean-ups, one of UNEP's key strategies for beating plastic pollution. As Connor has grown, so have his dreams, which Plaine Products are proud to support. His life's work — and the foundation's mission — is to connect young people to the ocean, and to show them just how much power for positive change they have when they work together. The MicroActivist Foundation's Mission Toward that end, they have published a range of educational materials and online courses that doesn't just engage young people and educate them about the ocean, it also puts them firmly in the driver's seat of real-world simulations so they can experience what it feels like to make decisions on a scientific expedition or talk down wayward fishermen intent on catching one of the world's rarest sharks. They are also constantly improving the MicroActivist ship to make it even more eco-friendly. In addition to partnering with us to ditch single-use plastic, they converted the MicroActivist catamaran into a hybrid sailing platform, with solar panels and batteries to power electric engines, and an electric dinghy to boot. Continuing in their dream to turn the MicroActivist into a zero-emissions, zero-waste research platform. Everything the foundation produces is designed to draw all of us, kids and adults alike, closer to the ocean and the many ways we can help protect it.
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New: One Gallon Bulk Refills
For some of you, a very exciting day has come! Plaine Products is pleased to announce we're nowoffering one-gallon bulk refills! Alongside the travel and 16 oz options of our most popular products, we'll now include a one-gallon option of shampoos, conditioners, hair + body wash, as well as select scents of body wash, body lotion, and hand wash. One gallon equals 8 - 10 single-use plastic bottles that are eliminated from the waste stream!Who Are One Gallon Bulk Refills For? While we understand that not everyone requires a gallon of shampoo, this option is particularly beneficial for those who live farther away from refill stations, go through a substantial amount of product, and are looking for cost or carbon savings. By shipping a gallon at a time, we reduce both shipping costs and the carbon footprint associated with transportation. If you don't want a glass gallon jar in your shower, you can refill the Plaine Products bottles you already have from the counter. Just like our regular aluminum bottles, Plaine Products will take the glass gallon jars back, wash them, and reuse them. You only need to order the companion pump once for each product. All of our unique formulas are carefully selected from nature’s most nutrient and vitamin-rich plants, minerals, and renewable sources. They are blended and manufactured with care. All of our products are: Free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates, silicone, and palm oil Blended with whole essential oils (instead of synthetic fragrance) Vegan and non-GMO ingredients Designed to biodegrade Baby-safe and hypoallergenic Cruelty-Free, Leaping Bunny certified Free of single-use plastic One Gallon Bulk Refills Product Options Bulk Refill Shampoo Scent options: Rosemary Mint Vanilla, Citrus Lavender, UnscentedBulk Refill Conditioner Scent options: Rosemary Mint Vanilla, Citrus Lavender, UnscentedBulk Refill Body Wash Scent options: Rosemary Mint Vanilla, Citrus LavenderBulk Refill Body Lotion Scent options: Rosemary Mint Vanilla, UnscentedBulk Refill Hair + Body Wash Scent Options: SageBulk Refill Hand Wash Scent options: Rosemary Mint Vanilla, Citrus LavenderJoin us in our mission to reduce plastic waste and make a positive impact on the environment. If one-gallon bulk refills are right for you,order yours today and be a part of the change!
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Simple and Delicious Vegetable Hash
Welcome back to our monthly series of easy recipes from our partner Lexi, a loyal Plaine Products customer and vegan home cook. This month, avoid food waste with a vegetable hash! In addition to helping eliminate single-use plastic from your routine with our premium quality bath and body products, we at Plaine Products love celebrating our community members. We’ve partnered with Lexi to share some of her vegan home-cooked recipes that are easy, quick, and delicious! HOMEMADE VEGETABLE HASH We asked you all what food item you found yourself wasting the most.. and the overwhelming majority said it was difficult to use up your veggies before they went bad. So our favorite vegan chef, @lexi.harpin, created a special recipe to help turn your wilted veggies into a simple and delicious vegetable hash. INGREDIENTS: 1 large russet potato, cubed1/2 medium onion, diced4 oz. mushrooms, sliced1 small zucchini, chopped1 large handful spinach, chopped1-2 tsp. nutritional yeast (optional)~ 1/4 tsp. garlic powder~ 1/4 tsp. onion powder~ 1/8 tsp. paprika~ 1/8 tsp. dried parsley1/4 c. watersalt + pepperolive oilINSTRUCTIONS: 1.) To a large pan on medium-high heat add a few tbsp. of olive oil then add your mushrooms and onions. Add a pinch of salt + pepper and cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Now add the zucchini, another pinch of salt, and cook until zucchini/mushrooms are slightly browned. Once done add to a bowl and set aside. 2.) To the same pan add another tbsp. of olive oil then your cubed potatoes. Pour in the water and cover with a lid. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are just fork tender (they should still be a little underdone). 3.) Next add in all your seasonings. Season generously with salt + pepper, add one last tbsp. of olive oil, and stir until combined. Cook uncovered for another 20 minutes or until the potatoes are crisp and fully cooked through. 4.) Once the potatoes are cooked add the vegetables back in along with the chopped spinach. Cook until spinach is wilted. Serve with any toppings if desired (I went with hot sauce and avocado). *Notes: Feel free to swap any of the veggies, I only recommend not to skip the onion because it adds a lot of flavor! Here’s to less food waste in the kitchen! https://youtu.be/HUHvBN73hpw?si=OnZPcZQ3Tt_D-9hrAt Plaine Products, we're committed to sustainability without sacrifice. That means creating premium quality bath and body products that check all the boxes for our customers while staying aligned with our values as a conscious company. Our products are made with non-toxic, vegan, cruelty-free, and biodegradable ingredients and are packaged in refillable, aluminum bottles. If you’re looking for the perfect bathroom routine that is good for your body, the planet, and animals, check out our products here.
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Homemade Vegan Gravy
Welcome back to our monthly series of easy recipes from our partner Lexi, a loyal Plaine Products customer and vegan home cook. This month, homemade vegan gravy! In addition to helping eliminate single-use plastic from your routine with our premium quality bath and body products, we at Plaine Products love celebrating our community members. We’ve partnered with Lexi to share some of her vegan home-cooked recipes that are easy, quick, and delicious! HOMEMADE VEGAN GRAVY Can’t find vegan gravy at the grocery store? We’ve got you.@lexi.harpin is serving up a quick and easy recipe for homemade vegan gravy, perfect for topping onto your mashed potatoes.INGREDIENTS: • 2 tbsp vegan butter• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped• 2 cups vegetable stock• 1/2 tsp poultry seasoning• 1/2 tsp nutritional yeast• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari• salt + pepper to tasteINSTRUCTIONS: 1.) To a pan on medium-high heat add the vegan butter. Once melted add the rosemary and cook for about 30 seconds. Next, sprinkle in the flour and whisk until a roux forms. Cook for about 2 minutes while whisking to cook off the raw flour taste.2.) Slowly pour in the vegetable stock, about 1/2 cup at a time while whisking constantly to avoid any clumps. Then add the poultry seasoning, nutritional yeast, black pepper, and soy sauce. Whisk to combine.3.) Cook the gravy for about 5 minutes or until it slightly thickens. Keep in mind that as it cools it will continue to thicken! Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. I like to add salt at the very end since the vegetable stock + soy sauce add a lot of flavor. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.Notes: • Instead of buying cartons of vegetable stock, I always buy vegetable bouillon which I find to be much more flavorful. The best part about bouillon is you can make the exact amount of stock you need and the bouillon itself keeps for much longer compared to an opened carton of vegetable stock!• You may use dried rosemary in this recipe if needed, I would use 1/2 - 1 tsp. of it since it is stronger when dried.SHARE this with someone who loves mashed potatoes!https://youtube.com/shorts/BYz3nLNoJlE?si=NXi66sXPL9pUdaJuAt Plaine Products, we're committed to sustainability without sacrifice. That means creating premium quality bath and body products that check all the boxes for our customers while staying aligned with our values as a conscious company. Our products are made with non-toxic, vegan, cruelty-free, and biodegradable ingredients and are packaged in refillable, aluminum bottles. If you’re looking for the perfect bathroom routine that is good for your body, the planet, and animals, check out our products here.
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Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide: The Best Plaine Products For Every Hair and Skin Type
If you’re looking for the perfect sustainable holiday gift, you’ve come to the right place! From hair care staples to skincare essentials, we’ve got eco-friendly gifts for everyone on your list, including yourself! Plaine Products are made with premium clean, vegan, organic, cruelty-free ingredients that are biodegradable and safe for the entire family (yes, including little ones and pups!). Our products come packaged in refillable, aluminum bottles that can be returned to us for free! If you’re not sure which Plaine Products to choose, some of our favorite Plaine Promoters are here to help: Olivia Hair Type: very straight and a bit on the oily side Skin Type: combination - oily in the T-zone and dryer outside of the T-zone Favorite Products: Shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Repair, Body Wash Follow Liv on Instagram and TikTok if you’re looking for holistic and non-toxic wellness tips! Immy Hair Type: Curly Favorite Products: Styling Gel, Body Lotion, Deep Conditioner Follow Immy if you’re looking for sustainability tips, vegan cooking from scratch, and slow-living content! Flo Hair Type: Curly, fine strands but dense Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone, sensitive, eczema-prone Favorite Products: Hair + Body Wash, Deep Conditioner, Beauty Oil, Hand Wash Follow Flo if you’re looking for conscious hair and beauty tips for curly hair or if you’re a creator looking to make an impact! Emma Follow Emma for sustainability tips, reviews, and nuanced discussions! TikTok ,YouTube ,Instagram Favorite Products: Shampoo, Face Wash, Beauty Oil Becca Hair Type: thick, wavy Skin Type: combination Favorite Products: Shampoo, Hand Wash, Body Lotion Follow Becca for clean beauty tips and reviews! Hannah Hair Type: Color-treated Skin Type: Dry & Sensitive Best gifts to give: Travel Size Products as Stocking Stuffers RMV Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash, Body Lotion Follow Hannah on Instagram and TikTok for plastic-free education, tips, and artwork! Amber Hair Type: Thin/Oily Skin Type: Sensitive Best gifts to give: Hand Wash, Hair + Body Wash, Face Wash Follow Amber for sustainability tips and the most creative upcycles! Nikita Hair Type: heat-damaged and color-treated Skin Type: Sensitive Favorite Products: Hand Wash, Body Lotion, Styling Gel, Face Wash Follow Nikita for sustainability tips while living the van life. Ali Hair Type: Thin and curly Skin Type: The pregnancy hormones are wild right now and my skin is all over the place Products: Unscented Body Wash for new-born, Hair + Body Wash for toddler Follow Ali on Instagram and TikTok for a realistic and inspiring look into being a low-waste parent! She’s sharing tips about how to care for a toddler and new-born sustainably. Lexi Hair Type: Wavy Skin Type: Sensitive Products: Hair Repair, Beauty Oil, Body Lotion Follow Lexi for delicious homemade vegan recipes! Kirstin Hair Type: 2b waves Skin Type: Dry Products: Hair Repair, Body Lotion, Face Moisturizer, Travel Size Body Wash + Body Lotion Follow Kirstin for sustainability and lifestyle content! Anna Hair Type: 3b curly, fine hair Skin Type: Dry Favorite Products: Hair Repair, Shampoo, Conditioner, Travel Sizes Follow Anna on Instagram, TikTok or her website for easy sustainability and plastic-free tips! Katrina Hair Type: Thick, Heat-Damaged Skin Type: Dry, Sensitive, Chronic Hives Favorite Products: Unscented Shampoo, Unscented Conditioner, Hair Repair, Deep Conditioner Find Katrina on Instagram and YouTube .
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Promoting Reuse: Plastic Free Future
Plastic Free Future is a non-profit organization dedicated to the reduction and elimination of plastic pollution by promoting reusable alternatives and focusing on outreach and education to systemically excluded communities. Founded by Alejandra Warren in 2020, PFF promotes reuse as one critical solution to the plastic pollution crisis. Additionally, Plastic Free Future produces, synthesizes, and communicates science-based information with a particular focus on underserved communities, youth, and policymakers. We envision a world where Earth’s living systems are thriving, and where future generations can live without the burden of plastics threatening their health and environment. A world where sustainable solutions are accessible to all. — Alejandra Warren, Executive Director, Plastic Free Future Alejandra is a leading voice in the global movement to eliminate single-use plastics and accelerate a truly circular economy. She has worked on efforts to pass thefirst single-use plastic ban in San Mateo County, California, and has also been heavily involved in theGlobal Plastics Treaty negotiations. Through her involvement, she encourages delegations to address the multi-generational harms that plastics inflict on low-income and communities of color and invest in community-based reuse and zero-waste systems.Promoting Reuse Plaine Products is proud to partner with Plastic Free Future on theirReuse Incentive Programs providing bulkshampoo as a reward option for participants. Here's how it works:1. Stop by the Plastic Free Future table at one of three Farmer's Markets in the San Francisco Bay Area:- East Palo Alto on Wednesday 10- 12- Pacifica on Wednesday 3 - 5- Half Moon Bay on Saturday 9 - 112. Sign up for their program to learn how to reduce your plastic footprint and get a beautiful reusable bag. 3. Stop by their table every week to receive a point each time you remember to bring bags to the market.4. Redeem points for reusable prizes, like reusable jars, reusable straws, and Plaine Products refills!5. Weekly efforts will not only help the planet but it will also help us keep our communities cleaner and healthier. In addition to their Reuse Incentive Programs, environmental education initiatives, and the consulting services and other programs they offer, their website also includes amap of reuse businesses around the world that offer either reusable takeout incentives, bulk refills, or reusables for on-site dining.Sharing Research on Plastics in our Bodies and the Environment Plastic Free Future also works to produce reliable science-based information for public education, outreach, and awareness campaigns, while providing policymakers with the tools needed to make sound, sustainable decisions. Science is only starting to uncover the impacts of this planetary issue and there is a long road ahead to fully understand how plastic pollution is affecting humans, soil, water, air, and the environment. Research is beginning to unveil how much plastic we consume in our food, beverages, and even the air we breathe.Alarmingly, the processing and manufacturing of plastic products are disproportionally impacting communities of color. We urgently need inclusive solutions to drastically reduce the amount of plastics entering the environment—solutions that require a shift away from the current model of excessive plastic consumption and where sustainable solutions are still a privilege. From local action and outreach to advocacy at international scales, Plastic Free Future supports the growing global movement to solve the plastic crisis.Importance of Intersectional Environmentalism Plastic Free Future recognizes the importance of Intersectional Environmentalism. All too often, Latinx and other underserved communities are excluded from sustainability conversations and lack access to the education, outreach, and programs enjoyed by their more affluent neighbors. A major focus of Plastic Free Future is bridging the wide Social Equity and Inclusion gap between Latinx communities and the sustainability movement. PFF works to provide these communities with the tools they need to advocate for equity and inclusion while amplifying their voices. Join us in celebrating and honoring the work of Plastic Free Future as they continue to promote reusable alternatives to single-use plastic, expand our bilingual programs and bring environmental education to underserved communities in the San Francisco Bay Area.
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Homemade Coconut Whipped Cream
Welcome to the first in our new, monthly series of easy recipes from our partner Lexi, a loyal Plaine Products customer and vegan home cook. Homemade coconut whipped cream! At Plaine Products, we're committed to sustainability without the sacrifice. That means creating premium quality bath and body products that check all the boxes for our customers while staying aligned with our values as a conscious company. Our products are made with non-toxic, vegan, cruelty-free, and biodegradable ingredients and are packaged in refillable, aluminum bottles. If you’re looking for the perfect bathroom routine that is good for your body, the planet, and animals, check out our products here. In addition to helping eliminate single-use plastic from your routine, we love celebrating our community members. We’ve partnered with Lexi to share some of her vegan home-cooked recipes that are easy, quick, and delicious! Coconut Whipped Cream Calling all coconut fans! ? We’ve been making @lexi.harpin’s homemade Coconut Whipped Cream recipe on repeat ? INGREDIENTS: 1 can coconut milk, refrigerated overnight 1/4 c. powdered sugar (add more if you want it to be sweeter) optional : 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract INSTRUCTIONS: Open your can of coconut milk upside down, the liquid will be at the bottom separated! Pour the liquid into a jar and save it for a future use. Next, add the coconut cream to a bowl and your powdered sugar. Give it a quick stir then mix with a hand mixer until it’s light and fluffy. Taste and add more sugar if needed! Store in an airtight container in the fridge. ⚠️ This cream has a strong coconut flavor, so if you don’t enjoy coconut, this recipe probably isn’t for you! But if you do enjoy it... WARNING: you might want to put it on EVERYTHING! ?? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nF_7H6MMNis
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Practicing Mindful Consumerism
In a world that generates an overwhelming amount of waste, practicing mindful consumerism is more important than ever. Consumption is inevitable, but there are steps you can take to reduce the impact of that consumption to benefit both you and the planet. What is Mindful Consumerism? Mindful consumerism is all about making thoughtful, intentional choices when it comes to the products we buy and the brands we support. It's about seeking quality over quantity, sustainability over disposability. There may not always be a more sustainable option out there, but it’s important to try your best to find one. Tips for Practicing Mindful Consumerism Buy Less: Before making a purchase, ask yourself if it's a product you truly need. Buy Well-Made: If you are able, invest in quality items that are built to last, reducing the frequency of replacements. Research Brands: Support companies with a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. Look for certifications like B Corps, organic, fair trade, and cruelty-free. Reduce Single-Use Items: Replace disposable items with reusable alternatives, like our line of refillable hair and body care products. Look Local: Support local thrift stores or resale markets, or join local donation groups. Minimalist Mindset: Focus on owning only what truly adds value to your life. Donate, Recycle, and Upcycle: Instead of tossing items that you no longer need, donate, recycle, or give them another life by upcycling. It’s easy to buy into the allure of fast, mass consumption. But it is crucial to embrace mindful consumerism and make choices that benefit ourselves and the environment whenever you can. It's not always easy, but it is always worth it!
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Bath vs. Shower: Which is Better for the Environment?
When it comes to taking a bath or a shower, which is the more sustainable choice? There are a few factors to consider, mainly water usage but also the electricity used to heat the water. The answer to which is better for the planet, a bath or a shower is: it depends. Water Usage On average, filling a standard bathtub requires about 36 gallons (136 liters) of water. That's a significant amount of water for a single use. It’s unlikely, however, that you are going to fill the bathtub all the way to the top. The water usage for a shower varies widely depending on factors like the showerhead flow rate and the length of the shower. A typical 10-minute shower with a standard showerhead can use between 25 to 50 gallons (95-190 liters) of water. So, if you have a habit of taking long, hot showers, you might be using a significant amount of water in comparison to a bath. But, if you limit yourself to a 5-minute shower, as suggested by the United Nations Foundation, you could save as much carbon emissions as is sequestered annually by half an acre of U.S. forest in a whole year of showers. A short shower is going to use less water and less electricity than it takes to fill the average bathtub. And keep in mind, heating the water for your bath or shower uses a lot of energy - up to 18 percent of your household usage, according to the Department of Energy. Tips for Using Less Water Here are some practical tips to minimize your water usage while maintaining your personal hygiene: Install Low-Flow Fixtures: Installing low-flow showerheads and faucets can significantly reduce water consumption without compromising water pressure. Time Your Showers: Set a timer for your shower to ensure you don't linger too long. Reducing your shower time by just a few minutes can make a big difference. Collect Bath Water: If you prefer baths, consider collecting the water you use and repurposing it for other household tasks like watering plants. If you use Plaine Products in your bath, you can feel good knowing that Plaine Products are gray water safe. Switch to a Dual-Flush Toilet: Upgrade your toilet to a dual-flush model, which allows you to choose between a full flush for solids and a partial flush for liquids. Fix Leaks: Even a small leak can waste a significant amount of water over time. Regularly check for and repair leaks in your bathroom fixtures. Consider a Navy Shower: A "navy shower" involves wetting yourself, turning off the water, soaping up, and then quickly rinsing. This technique can save a substantial amount of water. Use a Bucket or Watering Can: When washing your face or brushing your teeth, use a bucket or watering can to collect and reuse the water instead of letting it go down the drain. The choice between a bath and a shower is a personal one, but it's essential to consider the environmental impact of your decision. In most cases, taking shorter showers with low-flow fixtures is the more eco-friendly option. By making simple changes to your daily routine, such as installing water-saving fixtures and being mindful of your water usage, you can significantly reduce your water consumption and contribute to a more sustainable future. So, the next time you step into the bathroom, make a conscious choice to protect our planet, one drop at a time.
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