The Plastic Detox is a new documentary produced by the Oceanic Preservation Society that explores how microplastics and the chemicals they contain affect our bodies—and how we can begin to “detox” our homes.
Learn more about The Plastic Detox.
What is The Plastic Detox about?
The Plastic Detox follows six couples trying to conceive and examines how reducing exposure to plastic in their daily lives affects their fertility. The couples worked with Dr. Shanna Swan, a scientist who researches the impacts of environmental pollutants on reproductive health. During a three-month intervention, the couples removed or swapped a wide range of household products made with plastic and other petroleum-derived materials while testing for levels of phthalates, BPA, and other chemicals.
The documentary also explores the broader plastic pollution crisis, focusing on how plastic pollution affects human health. It includes a brief history of plastic and the problems with production and disposal, touching on reproductive issues, cancer, environmental justice, lobbying, and more. Perspectives range from scientists and researchers to community organizers and participants in the intervention.
Check out the Oceanic Preservation Society’s official site for the documentary.
How to reduce plastic use at home
Plastic is everywhere, but there are steps you can take to reduce your plastic use at home—and reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals.
The filmmakers offer helpful guides you can use to explore swaps by product or by room. Tips include products to swap and simple steps you can take, such as using a reusable water bottle or washing clothes in cold water.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Choose plastic-free laundry, cleaning, and personal care products
- Avoid food and drinks packaged in single-use plastic
- Switch to glass food storage and avoid heating food in plastic containers
- Decline single-use plastic bags and receipts
- Replace non-stick cookware with stainless steel or cast iron
- Swap plastic cutting boards for wood
We’re here to help you reduce plastic use in your home cleaning products. All our products are single-use plastic-free, and we offer many plastic-free, package-free, and refillable options.
Shop plastic-free cleaning products.
Related resources from Oceanic Preservation Society (OPS)
- The Unplastic Shop with Grove Collective
- The Plastic Playbook: Your Guide to Reducing Plastic Exposure in Your Home
- The Plastic Crisis
- Request a screening in your community