Plastic Free July- 10 Ways To Reduce your Plastic Use

Plastic-Free July is an opportunity for us to challenge our habits and make a positive impact on the environment. By embracing small changes in our daily lives, we can collectively work towards a plastic-free future. Here are some simple yet effective changes we can all make this Plastic-Free July:

1. Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Ditch disposable plastic water bottles and opt for a reusable one. 

2. Bring Your Own Shopping Bags: Make it a habit to bring reusable shopping bags whenever you go grocery shopping. This small change eliminates the need for single-use plastic bags and helps protect our oceans and wildlife.

3. Say No to Disposable Nappies: Disposable nappies take hundreds of years to break down and whilst doing so emit harmful gases that endanger animal life. Using cloth nappies is not only more sustainable but it's better for baby too.

4. Switch to Reusable Containers: Swap out plastic food storage containers with durable, reusable ones made of glass or stainless steel. A small investment but they will serve you a lifetime.

5. Choose Plastic-Free Packaging: Be mindful of the packaging when making purchasing decisions. Opt for products with minimal or plastic-free packaging, or support brands that prioritise sustainable packaging alternatives. 

6. Bring Your Own Utensils: Carrying reusable cutlery in your bag or backpack can help you avoid using disposable plastic utensils when eating out. We can often get caught but make it a habit to never forget your reusable straw.

1. Explore Refill Stations: Seek out local refill stations for household cleaning products, toiletries, and personal care items. Refilling your containers reduces the demand for single-use plastic bottles and bags. You can also buy your food staples in bulk and share amongst family and friends.

2. Use Cloth Bags for Produce: When buying fruits and vegetables, opt for cloth bags instead of the thin plastic ones provided. These lightweight alternatives are washable and can be reused repeatedly.

3. Embrace Sustainable Hygiene Products: Consider switching to eco-friendly alternatives like bamboo toothbrushes, cloth sanitary pads, and reusable cotton rounds. 

4. Most Importantly Spread the Word: Share your Plastic-Free July journey with friends, family and on social media. Encourage others to join in and make their own changes. Together, we can amplify our impact and inspire a wider movement.

Plastic-Free July presents an opportunity for all of us to rethink our consumption habits and take steps towards a more sustainable future. No one person needs to be zero waste. The impact would be far greater if we could all make even one small change and share it with friends and family. Often the catalyst for more change to come, and with any luck inspiring change in the people around us.  Let's make this Plastic-Free July a catalyst for lasting change!