Plastic Free July is an annual movement that encourages millions of people to reduce their plastic consumption. Originating in Australia in 2011, it has grown into a global campaign, motivating individuals, businesses, and communities to reconsider their plastic use and adopt more sustainable practices. But why is this initiative so important, and how can you get involved?

Why Plastic-Free July Matters

The world produces around 350 million tonnes of plastic waste each year. Recent studies suggest about 2 million tonnes of plastic enter the oceans annually, while less than 10% of plastic was recycled worldwide, and 49% made its way to the landfills. That is 171.5 million tonnes in just one year.

1. Environmental Impact: Plastics take hundreds of years to decompose, leading to massive environmental pollution. Plastic pollution ends up contaminating our ecosystems, affecting humans, animals, and our Earth.

2. Human Health: Plastics break down into microplastics, which find their way into our food and water sources, posing health risks.

3. Climate Change: Plastic production contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change.

4. Waste Management: Reducing plastic use lessens the burden on waste management systems, leading to more efficient recycling processes. Our recycling system is not perfect and is being challenged to vastly improve, but until then… We can reduce our impact.

News like this is a total bummer. By participating in Plastic-Free July, you’re not just helping the environment; you’re also setting a precedent for a sustainable future.

Ways to Reduce Plastic Use

1. Bring Your Own: Bag, bottle, mug, leftover container.

2. Say no thanks: to single use items, plastic straws, utensils.

3. Bulk Buying: Purchase items in bulk to avoid single serving packaging.

4. Eco-friendly Packaging: Choose products that are package free, infinitely recyclable or compostable.

5. Reusable Products: Menstrual goods, diapers, razors, paper towels.

6. Second-Hand Shopping: Buy second-hand clothes, household items and toys.

7. Refill Stations: Shop refill stations for detergents and other household products.

8. Plastic-Free Events: Organize or attend events with plastic-free principles.

9. Sustainable Business: Use your dollars to support sustainable businesses. It gets the attention of larger businesses to follow suit.

10. Educate Others: Share your knowledge about plastic reduction with friends and family.

11. Advocate for Change: Support policies and businesses that promote plastic-free initiatives.

To learn way more and join the Plastic Free July Challenge

Participating in Plastic-Free July is a meaningful step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. Every small action counts, and together, we can make a significant impact. Remember, intention not perfection.

Ready to take the challenge? Join the Plastic-Free July movement and inspire others to do the same. Visit https://www.plasticfreejuly.org/ to pledge to the challenge here.