While bubble wrap may be a lot of fun for kids, and well, let us face it, adults, it is a manufactured product that we should do without. It is made of plastic, and contributes to the landfills and the garbage in the oceans. Here are some alternatives to bubble wrap.
Virtual bubble wrap
If you just can’t give up bubble wrap because of the fun, there are virtual alternatives. What is it about bubble wrap anyway, that makes it satisfying to pop, pop, pop? For ways you can get your bubble on, try the free iPhone or iPod Touch app. It lets you pop till your hearts content and even scores it for you. I use this one often to sooth a toddler or preschooler when I have to get a splinter out of a little finger.
If you don’t have an IPhone or iPod, try virtual bubble wrap on the Internet! Here are a few different sites, allowing you to choose from different types of bubble wrap, including an insane version. http://www.virtual-bubblewrap.com/popnow.shtml, http://www.snapbubbles.com/, http://www.bored.com/snapbubbles/, and http://www.allied.com/virtual-bubble-wrap.aspx
Packing needs
Okay, the fun is over. You have serious needs. What if you need real not virtual bubble wrap for packing items for mailing, a move or storage? Well, there are plenty of friendlier alternatives to using plastic bubble wrap. Here are a few ideas.
Popcorn
Popcorn is inexpensive, easy to make, sustainable and can be gifted to the birds once your package arrives at its destination. If you place the pop corn in bags, your recipient will have an extra treat in the form of a free snack. Simply air pop a few cups and add them to your box to cushion your stuff. I wouldn’t advise popcorn for long term storage, since it is possible that it might attract insects or animals.
Shredded paper
Chances are pretty good that you already have some paper laying around. Put it to reuse when you shred it and use it for packaging. The paper can still be recycled when you are done with it as a packing material, so you haven’t wasted it for that use at all.
You can read more blog posts by Mary Ann Romans here!
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