Opinion: Learning about reducing plastic at school, helps spread word

Plastic bags are no good. Photo / File

I am constantly being shamed every time I use plastic.

If I buy a plastic bag at a store or even when selecting food items I am judged, given the side-eye and told - rather loudly and without hesitation - that I am making the wrong choice.

You see, my 9-year-old has no filter.

He tells it like he sees it and is quite happy to call out something he regards as wrong no matter the time or place - and this includes using plastic bags.

While at the supermarket the other day I went to throw a 10-pack of potato chips into the trolley for school lunches. The kid piped up and told me I was making a huge mistake for two reasons; 1. It was better value to buy big bags and ration them in reusable containers for lunches, and 2. It was better for the environment.

I had nothing to counter both arguments so I put them back (and yes, I know potato chips aren't the healthiest of options for school snacks).

I'm a creature of habit. I have intentions of limiting my plastic use, and I have made efforts - though admittedly minimal - to do so. But when I forget my reusable bags at home when I do the groceries, I more often than not use plastic bags to carry my groceries.

It's not ideal, I know.

But having a highly conscious child around me, forcing me to second guess every plastic choice is helping to keep me aware until this too, becomes habit.

The use of plastic has been high on his mind ever since he learned more about the damage it does to wildlife and the environment at school. It struck a chord with him and it has stuck - and because of this, he is helping to change behaviours in his own home.

The more he pulls me up on my plastic use, I'm absolutely confident the more conscious I'll become and the less I'll use.

He, like many other children I'm sure, is teaching me and the adults around him because of the impact his teachers are having on him - and that to me is a powerful way to share knowledge and educate the community about the importance of being environmentally friendly.