Vicki Hewitt

When I'm out and about with my collection bucket, my neighbours and other people see what I'm doing and often stop and talk to me about it. When I tell them how much I usually collect in one session, which is usually around 30-45 minutes, it makes them realise just how much litter there is in areas that they might walk past daily. I've also had some kids come out and join me and then they've continued to clean up in other parks and areas which they play in. 

I don't think the quality of food hasn't been impacted. I find that I often have a different choice of foods to choose from, sometimes limited for the things that I like but it also gives me a chance to try things that I wouldn't usually get because I am able to purchase a smaller amount than what I can find prepackaged. I usually go to the same stores and have interacted with staff, asked them questions about the bulk products and the general operation of the store which has helped me determine that the quality of the products meet my personal standards. 

I think our fear of germs and contamination, and our overall general mistrust in others, has caused us to be cautious of bulk items which is why most people buy prepackaged products. The fear of not knowing who has put their hands into a bulk bin, if they've washed their hands, if the bins have been cleaned regularly and so on, all can have an influence on switching to bulk or remain buying prepackaged. 

Post on my social media about the plastic free products I have found and use. Talk to colleagues and friends and try to encourage them to source plastic free items.