This month I want to share a scientific report done on Mt. Fuji that found a startling amount of plastic in the clouds. I read about this a few months ago and with my new “Sunrise” Fuji designs, I was thinking about it again. Read more at Waseda University or Google “Japan Microplastics in Clouds.”

 I keep seeing articles on microplastics. Clouds are made of water so with all the other plastic in our oceans and tap water, I guess I should not have been so shocked by this one.  Still, perhaps this is one more reminder for us to reduce our plastic use wherever possible.  

 It is not always easy to reduce plastic use when so many products are wrapped in or made of plastic.  Though, there are many occasions where we can make choices, even if it is a bit uncomfortable. Perhaps we can pause whenever we do have a choice and remember it is adding up in our water, clouds and bodies. 

• If something is made of plastic, even polyester fibers, can you repair it, reuse it, or just wait a little longer to replace it?

• When you are shopping for essentials like brushes, utensils, clothing, or storage solutions, can you find what you want second-hand or in a plastic-free option?

• When you are shopping or eating out, can you tell the cashier you do not need the plastic bag, lid, or other packaging? Can you bring your own container or use your handbag or hands when you do not have a shopping bag?

• If you need to get one-time-use plastic, can you confirm if it can be recycled? Many waste management facilities only recycle PET (plastic with the 1) and it often needs to be cleaned first. Many people have a false sense that all plastic can be recycled or do not realize how much waste still takes place when something is recycled.