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.


  1. Sign Up 

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: 

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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:


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