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  • President Trump Signs Executive Order to Create US Space Academy  

    President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order on Aug. 28, 2026, to establish the nation’s first U.S. Space Academy at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.
    Credit: NASA

    To strengthen the nation’s space workforce and develop the next generation of space leaders, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order on Friday to establish the nation’s first U.S. Space Academy.

    The order highlights how space is a critical domain for American national security, economic growth, scientific discovery, and technological innovation. The proposed academy would focus technical education with leadership development, discipline, and a commitment to public service, helping ultimately advance U.S. interests in space.

    “Given the rapid growth of the U.S. Space Force and commercial space industry, and the expansion of our ambitions to the Moon and far beyond the Moon, it’s clear we will need to educate and train an entire generation of skilled service members, engineers, and civil operators,” said President Trump. “That’s why I will sign an Executive Order to begin the process of creating a new a national academy called the U.S. Space Academy.”

    The order also calls on NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman to serve as the chair of a new Presidential Commission on the United States Space Academy, and NASA Deputy Administrator Matt Anderson to serve as the executive director. They will work with vice chairs — Assistant to the President for Science and Technology, Michael Kratsios, and Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, Kevin Hassett — and other representatives from the White House and the interagency on the commission.

    “President Trump’s vision for a new academy is a transformational step to educate the engineers, scientists, technicians, operators and even the astronauts who will be necessary for the inspiring future we are pursuing in space. In the years ahead, we will return NASA astronauts to the lunar surface, build the Moon Base, get underway on nuclear power, ignite the orbital economy and launch more missions of science and discovery,” said Isaacman. “I have no doubt that so much of the future talent that will graduate and contribute to these exciting endeavors will be educated at the United States Space Academy.”

    A report from the commission to the President is due within 120 days of the signing with recommendations on governance framework, service obligations for graduates, physical location of the academy, legislative requirements, and more.

    The signing of “Establishing the United States Space Academy Executive Order,” took place at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston where the President also presented the Artemis II crew members with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor.

    The Executive Order is the latest from President Trump that demonstrates his commitment to maintaining U.S. leadership in space and advancing NASA’s Golden Age exploration and innovation. In December 2025, he signed the Ensuring American Space Superiority, and recently, a new National Space Transportation Policy memorandum on Aug. 20.

    Read the full Executive Order on The White House website: 

    https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/08/establishing-the-united-states-space-academy

    -end-

    Bethany Stevens / Cheryl Warner
    Headquarters, Washington
    202-358-1600
    [email protected] / [email protected]

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    Last Updated

    Aug 28, 2026

    Editor
    Jennifer M. Dooren
    Location
    NASA Headquarters

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    Source: www.nasa.gov

  • President Honors NASA’s Artemis II Crew with Highest US Space Award

    President Donald J. Trump awarded NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Jeremy Hansen with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor on Aug. 28, 2026, at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.
    Credit: NASA

    President Donald J. Trump awarded NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Jeremy Hansen with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor Friday for their service during the Artemis II mission. He presented the awards during a ceremony at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, honoring the first medal recipients since 2023.

    NASA’s historic Artemis II mission launched on April 1, and splashed down safely in the Pacific Ocean on April 10. The crew members were the first astronauts to launch on the agency’s SLS (Space Launch System) rocket, flying aboard NASA’s Orion spacecraft, which the crew named Integrity. During their record-setting mission, the astronauts traveled 252,756 miles from Earth, farther than any humans have traveled before, surpassing a previous record set by Apollo 13 astronauts in 1970. In total, they flew 695,081 miles, including a lunar flyby.

    “We gather on these historic grounds to celebrate the immense courage of four intrepid space heroes whose sense of daring and adventure led them further from Earth than anyone has ever traveled ever before,” said President Trump. “Today we’re proudly awarding the Congressional Space Medal of Honor to the remarkable crew of Artemis II. These astronauts did not do it alone. I want to salute all of the engineers, and scientists, launch and landing specialists, everyone at NASA who helped make this mission a great success.”

    The Congressional Space Medal of Honor was authorized by Congress in 1969 to recognize an astronaut who in the performance of duties has distinguished himself or herself by exceptionally brave and meritorious efforts, and contributions to the welfare of the nation and humanity. There now are 34 recipients of the award since the beginning of the space program, including the crews of Apollo 1, Challenger, and Columbia who received the award posthumously.

    “President Trump’s leadership has put America back on a path to lead the world in space, from creating the Artemis program to giving NASA the resources and mandate to win this new space race,” said NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman. “The Artemis II crew answered that call with extraordinary skill and courage, showing the world the Moon again and what American leadership and exploration look like at their best. Their achievement was made possible by the exceptional NASA workforce, alongside our industry and international partners, who showed once again what can be accomplished when we commit to big, bold endeavors. We will build on this success as we return to the lunar surface and establish an enduring presence on the Moon.”

    The first crewed mission under NASA’s Artemis program paved the way for the 2027 Artemis III test flight in low Earth orbit to demonstrate rendezvous and docking capabilities between Orion and commercial human landing systems, and the Artemis IV mission in 2028, which will return American astronauts to the lunar surface.

    “It was the honor of my lifetime to fly on Integrity around the Moon with Victor, Christina, and Jeremy. Having President Trump here at the agency’s Johnson Space Center to honor NASA and my crew underscores the significance of what our teams accomplished,” said Wiseman, who served as commander of the mission. “I can’t wait to see my friends continue this legacy on Artemis III.”

    Glover served as pilot of the Orion spacecraft.

    “Piloting Orion for the first time in space was a profound honor, made possible because of the years of hard work, dedication, and expertise by countless individuals dedicating their time and talents to the mission,” said Glover. “We share this recognition with the thousands of people who launched us around the Moon and brought us safely back to Earth.”

    Koch served as a mission specialist.

    “The response to our mission here on Earth was beyond anything we ever imagined and all we ever hoped for. We are grateful every time we hear from people who followed along with our journey. As team members on this shared mission, we accept this award to honor those who made it happen, from factory floors to clean rooms and mission control rooms,” said Koch.

    Hansen also served as a mission specialist.

    “It is a privilege to receive the Congressional Space Medal of Honor alongside my Artemis II crewmates,” said Hansen. “I share this recognition with the dedicated teams in Canada, the United States, and our international partners who made the mission possible. Artemis II showed what we can accomplish for humanity when we set ambitious goals and work together. For Canada, the mission and the Artemis program as a whole are about much more than just going back to the Moon. It is about the pursuit of excellence and collaboration.”

    As part of a Golden Age of innovation and exploration, NASA will send Artemis astronauts on a series of challenging missions to explore more of the Moon and establish a Moon Base on the lunar surface for long-term exploration. These missions will set the stage for sending the first astronauts — Americans — to Mars. Learn more:

    https://www.nasa.gov/artemis

    -end-

    Bethany Stevens / Cheryl Warner
    Headquarters, Washington
    202-358-1600
    [email protected] / [email protected]

    Brandi Dean / Chelsey Ballarte
    Johnson Space Center, Houston
    281-483-5111
    [email protected] / [email protected]

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    Last Updated

    Aug 28, 2026

    Editor
    Jessica Taveau
    Location
    NASA Headquarters

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    Source: www.nasa.gov

  • Most Popular Casino Games in the USA: A Complete Guide To America’s Favorite Casino Games

    Most Popular Casino Games in the USA: A Complete Guide To America’s Favorite Casino Games

    The Most Popular Casino Games in the USA continue to attract millions of players who enjoy entertainment, strategy, and the excitement of winning opportunities. From classic table games found in Las Vegas casinos to modern online casino experiences, players have access to a wide variety of options. Platforms like getodds.us provide useful information for casino enthusiasts who want to understand different games, features, and responsible gaming practices before choosing their preferred options. Whether someone enjoys skill-based challenges or fast-paced action, casino games in the United States offer something for every type of player.

    Why Are Casino Games So Popular In The USA?

    Casino gaming has been a major part of American entertainment for decades. Traditional gambling destinations such as Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and tribal casinos across different states have helped build a strong gaming culture. Today, online casinos have expanded access by allowing players to enjoy many popular games from their computers and mobile devices.

    Several factors contribute to the popularity of casino games in the USA. The combination of entertainment, strategy, social interaction, and the possibility of rewards makes these games appealing to a wide audience. Many players also enjoy learning game rules, developing strategies, and improving their decision-making skills.

    Modern casino platforms have introduced advanced graphics, live dealer features, mobile compatibility, and innovative gameplay mechanics. These improvements have made casino gaming more accessible and engaging than ever before.

    Slot Machines: The Most Popular Casino Game In America

    Slot machines are widely considered one of the Most Popular Casino Games in the USA. They are available in nearly every casino and remain a favorite choice for beginners and experienced players alike.

    The popularity of slots comes from their simple gameplay. Players only need to select their bet, spin the reels, and wait for matching symbols or winning combinations. Unlike many table games, slots do not require complicated strategies or extensive knowledge.

    Modern slot machines offer many themes and features, including:

    • Movie and television themes
    • Adventure and fantasy designs
    • Progressive jackpots
    • Bonus rounds
    • Free spin features
    • Interactive gameplay elements

    Progressive jackpot slots are especially attractive because they offer the chance to win large prizes that increase as more players participate. Online casinos have also expanded the slot experience by providing thousands of games with different designs, paylines, and betting limits.

    Blackjack: A Favorite Game For Strategy Players

    Blackjack is another highly popular casino game in the United States. Unlike slots, blackjack combines luck with decision-making skills, making it appealing to players who enjoy strategic gameplay.

    The main objective of blackjack is to achieve a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer without exceeding that number. Players receive cards and decide whether to hit, stand, double down, or split depending on their situation.

    One reason blackjack remains popular is its relatively low house edge when players use proper strategies. Many enthusiasts study blackjack charts and probability concepts to improve their gameplay.

    Key features that attract blackjack players include:

    • Simple rules
    • Fast gameplay
    • Strategic decisions
    • Multiple betting options
    • Live dealer experiences

    Online blackjack has also become increasingly popular because players can enjoy realistic casino-style games from home. Live dealer blackjack allows users to interact with professional dealers through video streaming, creating a more authentic experience.

    Roulette: The Classic Game Of Chance

    Roulette has been a casino favorite for generations and remains one of the most recognized games worldwide. Its popularity in the USA comes from its exciting atmosphere and easy-to-understand betting system.

    The game involves a spinning wheel divided into numbered sections. Players place bets on where they believe the ball will land. Bets can be made on individual numbers, colors, groups of numbers, or specific combinations.

    The main types of roulette include:

    • American roulette
    • European roulette
    • French roulette

    American roulette features an additional double-zero slot, while European roulette has a single zero. Because of this difference, many players prefer European roulette due to its lower house edge.

    Roulette attracts players because every spin creates suspense. The combination of colorful visuals, simple rules, and various betting choices makes it a timeless casino favorite.

    Poker: A Game Of Skill And Competition

    Poker holds a unique position among casino games because it focuses heavily on strategy, psychology, and player decisions. While many casino games involve playing against the house, poker often involves competing against other players.

    Different poker variations have gained popularity across the USA, including:

    • Texas Hold’em
    • Omaha Poker
    • Seven Card Stud
    • Caribbean Stud Poker

    Texas Hold’em is the most widely recognized version. Players receive private cards and combine them with community cards to create the strongest possible hand.

    Successful poker players focus on:

    • Understanding probabilities
    • Reading opponents
    • Managing their bankroll
    • Making calculated decisions

    Poker tournaments have helped increase the game’s popularity throughout America. Television broadcasts and online platforms have introduced millions of people to competitive poker.

    Baccarat: A Growing Favorite Among Casino Players

    Baccarat has traditionally been associated with luxury casino environments, but it has become more accessible to everyday players through online gaming platforms.

    The game is known for simple rules and a fast-paced format. Players typically choose between three betting options:

    • Player
    • Banker
    • Tie

    The goal is to predict which side will have a hand value closest to nine. Despite its elegant reputation, baccarat is relatively easy to learn, making it attractive for new players.

    Online baccarat has increased the game’s popularity by offering different versions, including live dealer baccarat and mobile-friendly options.

    Craps: The Social Casino Experience

    Craps is one of the most energetic games found in American casinos. Known for its exciting atmosphere, craps tables often attract groups of players who enjoy a social gaming experience.

    The game uses dice, and players place bets on possible outcomes. While craps may appear complicated at first because of its many betting options, beginners can start with basic bets and gradually learn advanced strategies.

    Popular craps bets include:

    • Pass line bets
    • Don’t pass bets
    • Come bets
    • Odds bets

    The social environment around craps is one of its biggest attractions. Players often celebrate together when successful rolls occur, creating a unique casino atmosphere.

    Online Casino Games And Their Growing Popularity

    The growth of online gambling has changed how Americans experience casino games. Players no longer need to visit physical casinos to enjoy their favorite titles.

    Online casinos provide access to:

    • Digital slot machines
    • Online blackjack
    • Virtual roulette
    • Live dealer games
    • Online poker rooms
    • Mobile casino apps

    Convenience is one of the biggest reasons online casino games continue to grow. Players can access games anytime using smartphones, tablets, or computers.

    Technology has also improved online casino experiences through:

    • High-quality graphics
    • Faster loading speeds
    • Secure payment options
    • Real-time multiplayer features
    • Live streaming technology

    Mobile Casino Gaming In The USA

    Mobile gaming has become an important part of the American casino industry. Many players prefer using smartphones because they provide quick and convenient access to entertainment.

    Mobile casino games are designed with responsive layouts and touch-friendly controls. Popular mobile options include:

    • Slots
    • Blackjack
    • Roulette
    • Baccarat
    • Poker

    The ability to play anywhere has helped online casino games reach a wider audience. Developers continue improving mobile experiences with better graphics, smoother gameplay, and enhanced security features.

    Factors Players Consider When Choosing Casino Games

    Different players prefer different types of casino games based on their interests, experience levels, and goals. Some important factors include:

    Game Rules

    Beginners often prefer games with simple rules, such as slots or basic blackjack. More experienced players may enjoy strategy-focused games like poker.

    House Edge

    The house edge represents the casino’s mathematical advantage. Understanding this concept helps players make informed decisions about different games.

    Entertainment Value

    Many players choose games based on enjoyment rather than only potential winnings. Themes, graphics, sound effects, and gameplay style can influence preferences.

    Betting Limits

    Casino games are available with different betting ranges. Some games are designed for casual players, while others attract high-stakes participants.

    Responsible Gambling And Safe Gaming Practices

    While casino games can provide entertainment, responsible gaming is important. Players should approach gambling as a form of recreation rather than a guaranteed way to make money.

    Helpful responsible gambling practices include:

    • Setting a budget before playing
    • Avoiding chasing losses
    • Taking regular breaks
    • Understanding game rules
    • Playing only with money they can afford to lose

    Players should also choose licensed and trustworthy casino platforms that prioritize security and fair gaming practices.

    The Future Of Casino Games In The USA

    The casino industry in the United States continues to evolve with new technologies and changing player preferences. Future developments may include more advanced virtual reality casinos, improved live dealer experiences, and personalized gaming features.

    Artificial intelligence and data-driven technology may also influence how casino platforms recommend games and improve user experiences.

    As online gambling regulations continue developing across different states, more players may gain access to legal and regulated casino gaming options.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Popular Casino Games In The USA?

    1. What Are The Most Popular Casino Games In The USA?

    The most popular casino games in the USA include slot machines, blackjack, roulette, poker, baccarat, and craps. Slots remain the most widely played because of their simplicity and variety.

    2. Which Casino Game Requires The Most Skill?

    Poker and blackjack are often considered skill-based casino games because players can use strategies and decision-making techniques to influence outcomes.

    3. Are Online Casino Games Popular In America?

    Yes, online casino games have become increasingly popular due to convenience, mobile accessibility, and advanced gaming technology.

    4. What Is The Easiest Casino Game For Beginners?

    Slot machines are usually the easiest for beginners because they require minimal knowledge of rules or strategies.

    5. Is Blackjack Better Than Slots?

    It depends on player preferences. Blackjack appeals to those who enjoy strategy, while slots are popular among players looking for simple entertainment and excitement.

    6. Are Casino Games Legal In The USA?

    Casino game legality depends on individual state laws. Some states allow commercial casinos, tribal casinos, online gaming, or specific forms of gambling, while others have restrictions.

    Conclusion

    The Most Popular Casino Games in the USA reflect the diverse interests of American players. From the simplicity of slot machines to the strategic challenges of blackjack and poker, casino games continue to provide entertainment for millions of people.

    Traditional favorites like roulette, baccarat, and craps remain popular, while online and mobile gaming platforms continue expanding access to these experiences. Understanding how different games work, learning responsible gambling habits, and choosing suitable options can help players enjoy casino gaming in a safer and more informed way.

  • Native Plant Gardening: Why It Matters and How to Start

    Native Plant Gardening: Why It Matters and How to Start

    A lawn edged with imported ornamentals can look immaculate and still be a food desert for local wildlife. Native plants — the species that evolved alongside your region’s insects, birds, and soil — are the single most effective upgrade a home gardener can make for biodiversity, and they are refreshingly low-maintenance once established.

    Why natives punch above their weight

    • They feed specialists. Many caterpillars and solitary bees can only feed on the specific plant families they evolved with; no host plant means no butterflies.
    • They fit your climate. Once their roots are down, natives typically need little to no watering, feeding, or spraying.
    • They support the food chain. More insects means more food for garden birds, hedgehogs, and everything above them.

    Getting started in four steps

    • Observe first. Note your soil type, drainage, and how sunlight moves across the plot through the day.
    • Find your regional plant list. Native plant societies, wildlife trusts, and university extension services publish lists matched to local conditions.
    • Plant in drifts of three to seven. Clusters of one species are easier for pollinators to find than single scattered specimens.
    • Aim for a succession of bloom. Early spring and late autumn flowers matter most, because that is when nectar is scarcest.

    Small space? No problem

    A balcony trough of regional wildflowers still feeds passing bees, and a single native climber on a fence can host dozens of insect species. Leave a patch of stems standing over winter — hollow stalks are five-star overwintering real estate for solitary bees.

    Rich, homemade compost gets young natives off to the best start; our composting 101 guide shows how to make it from kitchen scraps. Water new plantings with stored rain using the setups in our rainwater harvesting guide, and they will barely need the tap again.

  • Rainwater Harvesting at Home: A Practical Starter Guide

    Rainwater Harvesting at Home: A Practical Starter Guide

    Every millimetre of rain that lands on an average roof delivers dozens of litres of soft, chlorine-free water — and most of it disappears straight down the drain. Capturing even a fraction of it cuts your water bill, eases pressure on storm drains, and gives your garden the water plants genuinely prefer.

    How much water is really up there?

    The maths is friendlier than you might expect. Multiply your roof’s footprint in square metres by your local annual rainfall in millimetres, then by 0.8 to account for losses. A modest 60 m² roof in a region with 800 mm of rain can realistically yield over 38,000 litres a year — enough to keep a large garden thriving through most dry spells.

    Three levels of setup

    • Level 1 — the water butt. A barrel connected to one downpipe via a diverter kit. An hour of work with a hacksaw and a drill, and the cheapest entry point by far.
    • Level 2 — linked butts with a tap and stand. Two or three barrels daisy-chained together triple your storage and raise the tap high enough for a watering can.
    • Level 3 — a filtered tank with a pump. A buried or slimline wall tank with a leaf filter and small pump can feed garden irrigation, and in some homes, toilets and washing machines.

    Keeping stored water clean

    • Fit a leaf guard where the downpipe meets the gutter and rinse it seasonally.
    • Use opaque containers — sunlight plus stored water equals algae.
    • Empty and scrub butts once a year, ideally before the wettest season.
    • A first-flush diverter discards the initial dirty runoff of each storm for higher-quality storage.

    Rainwater is naturally soft and slightly acidic, which acid-loving plants such as blueberries and camellias prefer over tap water. It pairs beautifully with a garden planted for your local conditions — exactly what our native plant gardening guide covers. And if you are thinking bigger about home resource independence, learn how home solar panels work.

  • Composting 101: Turn Kitchen Scraps into Garden Gold

    Composting 101: Turn Kitchen Scraps into Garden Gold

    Roughly a third of everything the average household throws away is organic matter that could have become free, rich fertiliser. Composting is the rare eco habit that rewards you directly: less bin smell, fewer collection bags, and dark crumbly compost your plants will love.

    The only recipe you need: greens plus browns

    Compost is made by billions of microbes, and like any workforce they need a balanced diet. Greens are fresh, nitrogen-rich materials; browns are dry, carbon-rich ones. Aim for roughly two to three parts browns to one part greens by volume.

    • Greens: vegetable peelings, fruit scraps, coffee grounds, fresh grass clippings, old cut flowers.
    • Browns: dry leaves, torn cardboard, egg boxes, shredded paper, small twigs, straw.
    • Keep out: cooked food, meat, dairy, and oily leftovers in an open garden bin — they attract pests. (Sealed hot composters and bokashi systems can handle them.)

    A month-by-month rhythm

    Add material as it arises, covering each caddy of scraps with a layer of browns. Once a fortnight, turn the pile with a fork to let air in; oxygen is what keeps the process sweet-smelling. If the pile looks soggy, add cardboard. If it looks dusty and inactive, add greens and a splash of water. In warm months you can have usable compost in three to four months; a neglected pile still gets there in about a year.

    No garden? You still have options

    A sealed bokashi bucket ferments all food waste, including cooked leftovers, under the sink. A wormery fits on a balcony and produces both compost and a potent liquid feed. Many councils also collect food waste for industrial composting, which is a fine fallback.

    Finished compost is the perfect head start for a wildlife-friendly plot — see our guide to native plant gardening to put it to work. And to shrink the packaging side of your bin as well, browse our ten plastic-free kitchen swaps.

  • How Home Solar Panels Work: A Beginner’s Guide

    How Home Solar Panels Work: A Beginner’s Guide

    Rooftop solar has quietly become one of the cheapest forms of electricity ever built, yet the technology still feels mysterious to many homeowners. This guide explains the journey from sunlight to switched-on kettle in plain English, with no physics degree required.

    From photon to power point

    Each solar panel is a sandwich of silicon cells. When sunlight strikes a cell, it knocks electrons loose, creating direct current (DC) electricity. Your home, however, runs on alternating current (AC). That conversion is the job of the inverter, the true brain of the system, which also shapes the power to match the grid exactly.

    • Panels generate DC power from daylight, not heat. Cool, bright days are often more efficient than heatwaves.
    • The inverter converts DC to AC and reports performance data to your monitoring app.
    • The meter tracks what you draw from and export to the grid.
    • An optional battery stores surplus daytime power for the evening peak.

    What actually determines your output

    Three factors dominate: roof orientation, shading, and system size. A south-facing roof (in the northern hemisphere) is ideal, but east–west arrays produce a flatter, friendlier curve of power across the day. Even partial shading from a chimney or tree can disproportionately drag down a string of panels, which is why installers sometimes recommend micro-inverters or optimisers for complicated roofs.

    Questions to ask before you sign

    • How many kilowatt-hours does my household actually use per year, and what fraction will the system cover?
    • Is the quote based on a physical roof survey or just satellite imagery?
    • What are the panel and inverter warranties, and who honours them if the installer disappears?
    • How will exported electricity be credited on my tariff?

    A well-sized system typically pays for itself in six to ten years and keeps producing for twenty-five or more. Pair it with sensible water habits, like the ones in our rainwater harvesting starter guide, and your home’s running costs drop on two fronts at once. Curious where to begin indoors? Start small with our plastic-free kitchen swaps.

  • 10 Simple Swaps for a Plastic-Free Kitchen

    10 Simple Swaps for a Plastic-Free Kitchen

    The kitchen is where most households generate the bulk of their single-use plastic: cling film, produce bags, bottled cleaners, and packaging from the weekly shop. The good news is that you do not need to overhaul your life in a weekend. Swapping one item at a time, as things run out, is cheaper, less stressful, and far more likely to stick.

    Start with the swaps that pay for themselves

    • Beeswax wraps instead of cling film. They mould around bowls and cut fruit with the warmth of your hands, wash clean in cool water, and last about a year before they can be composted.
    • Glass jars instead of plastic tubs. Rescue pasta-sauce jars for dry goods, leftovers, and freezer storage. They are free, airtight, and you can see what is inside.
    • Loose-leaf tea or plastic-free tea bags. Many mainstream tea bags are sealed with polypropylene. A small infuser removes the problem entirely.
    • Bar dish soap instead of bottled washing-up liquid. A solid block lasts months and works with a wooden brush just as well as liquid.
    • Cloth produce bags. Keep a few in your shopping tote so thin film bags never come home with you in the first place.

    Five more swaps once the basics feel easy

    • Compostable sponges and loofahs in place of plastic scourers that shed microplastics into the drain.
    • Refill-store staples. Rice, oats, lentils, and washing powder are the easiest products to buy by weight into your own containers.
    • A metal safety razor of a milk-frother-style spare part culture: choose kitchen tools with replaceable parts instead of throwaway gadgets.
    • Concentrated cleaner tablets that dissolve in a reusable spray bottle, replacing a new plastic bottle with a thumb-sized tablet.
    • Freezing in jars or steel tins instead of freezer bags. Leave headroom for expansion and label with a wax pencil.

    Make it stick

    Perfection is not the goal; direction is. Audit your bin for one week, note the three plastic items that appear most often, and target those first. Most families find that five swaps eliminate more than half their kitchen plastic.

    Once your kitchen habits are humming, the natural next step is dealing with food scraps. Our guide to composting kitchen scraps into garden gold shows you how to close the loop, and if you want to green your utilities too, see how home solar panels work.