Five Ways to Participate in Plastic Free July
Are you feeling up to a zero waste challenge? If so, Plastic Free July is for you. With the majority of our products and food packaged in plastic, it is really important to learn how to reduce as much plastic as possible. Although COVID-19 has meant more pre- packaged and sealed products for health concerns, there are still ways you can improve your consumption habits. Every small change and improvement is what really matters!
Plastic Free July encourages you to reduce plastic waste and to imagine the world without plastic. You can try this challenge for one day, one week, one month or even for the rest of the year. It is up to you to decide how best to implement this challenge into your life. The following are five ways you can get started in this journey.
The first step is to explore Plastic Free July’s website and sign up to the challenge pledge. It will request you become a part of their newsletter so resources can be sent to your chosen email account. In this way, you can have a constant stream of information at your fingertips. Make sure to look in reusable products that they feature in their website such as:
2. Social Media
Follow this community online. There is amazing influencers, bloggers, and ordinary people using the hashtag #plasticfreejuly on Instagram that are sharing their progress in this challenge. The array of different content, visuals and infographics is truly inspiring and motivating. Consider the following accounts:
@plasticfreejuly Instagram
@plantedinthewoods Instagram
@jhanneu Instagram
@bipocswho_zerowaste Instagram
@browngirl_green Instagram
3. Share Plastic Free July With Co-Workers
Let staff know in your workplace about the challenge. The impact of having more people participating will further reduce plastic consumption. Every person matters and every conversation can be an opportunity in explaining why environmentalism is important. The following ways are ways to get started at your job:
Ask co-workers what single use plastic they can easily get rid off and engage in a conversation on how to find one plastic free solution
Challenge co-workers to switch to reusable water bottles and coffee cups every day
With permission, place Plastic Free July signs around the business to spread awareness to co-workers and customers.
Spread Plastic Free July to professional connection via a Linkedin post
Host a plastic free event or film screening at your job
4. Understand Shopping Habits
Make a list of the essential items you need to regularly buy in your life. This will help you organize what you clearly need versus desires. By knowing what you need it can help prevent unnecessary consumption of plastic. Consider if it is realistic for you to do the following:
Buy reusable utensils in containers, such as spoons and forks
Make a shopping kit, with 10-15 reusable drawstring bags for fruit and vegetables
Take mason jars/bottle for refills of goods in grocery stores that provide refill options
Make 3 larger bags/shopping trolly to carry groceries
Buy from the bulk section of the grocery store
Buy alternatives, such as wax wrap
Use glass cutlery at home
Consume less fast food and to go packaged meals
5. Buy less, buy better
Try to reconsider why you need to purchase certain items by reflecting on what they mean to you. Set plans and goals so you only buy what you need. Make sure your goals are:
Realistic and practical to your budget, time and needs
Considering possible errors during the process and how unrealistic perfection is
Considering making small changes, such as making your own almond milk or using dish towels instead of napkins
Include having fun and using your imagination