How to Participate in Plastic Free July

Photo by Volodymyr Hryshchenko from Unsplash.

Table of Contents

What is Plastic Free July?

Plastic Free July is a global movement that encourages individuals, communities, and organisations to reduce their plastic use throughout the month of July.

Therefore, by raising awareness and promoting sustainable alternatives, the movement aims to reduce plastic pollution and protect the environment. Participants are encouraged to refuse single-use plastics and adopt more eco-friendly habits.

Read more information about Plastic Free July on Plastic Free Foundation

The Looming Crisis: Plastic Pollution and Our Planet

Plastic pollution is a growing threat. What was once designed for convenience—like bottles, bags, and straws—now clutters our environment. These discarded plastics entangle wildlife, litter beaches, and break down into tiny microplastics that contaminate our water.

These persistent pollutants harm ecosystems and make their way into the human food chain, posing serious risks to both our planet and our health.

Although the situation looks bleak, we can take the motivated steps following the “three Rs”: Reduce, reuse, recycle, to help the planet.

Make the Switch: Easy Steps with Less Plastic

Reduce

Reduce single-use plastic by using your own reusables. Start carrying a reusable shopping bag whenever you go out is a great primary step.

As a daily coffee drinker, skip your disposable cups by using your own glass reusable travel mug. Your green coffee routine helps make the planet better. If you are creating a more sustainable kitchen, you can use produce bags, thermal food bags and glass food containers to store food in the kitchen.

If you want to ditch the plastic in your personal care routine, try to look for bamboo toothbrushes, soap bars and refilled packs for shampoo and conditioner. Additionally, consider swapping your plastic containers in the shower for an eco-friendly silicone or ceramic option.

Reuse

Reuse items to avoid accepting new ones. Before tossing something out, consider if it could be used for something else. This is where our creativity shines—turning glass jars into pen holders or old clothes into handy dust rags. By repurposing everyday items, we give them a second life.

If you want to declutter your closet, consider donating used clothes to charity. They’ll ensure your clothes to find a new home, while you will potentially benefit from a tax deduction.

Got unused items like a dining room set or exercise equipment? Hold a garage sale to clear your space, make a little money, and help these items by finding them a new loving owner. After the sale, donate any unsold items to a local charity—many will even pick them up from your home.

Recycle

A simple way to make a difference is by sorting your waste into designated bins. Moreover, make sure to research your local recycling standards to ensure you recycle correctly and effectively.

Recycling rules can change and might not always be the best option. “Reducing” is still our main goal. However, you can still improve your recycling skills with these tips:

Learn what items are recyclable in your area
Check local recycling rules (e.g., item separation, rinsing, specific collection points)
Confirm what can and can’t go in your recycling bins (e.g., old toys, clothing, scrap metal, or certain plastics)

Proper recycling not only reduces pollution, but also creates valuable resources for new products – it’s a win-win for the environment.

Photo by Benjamin Brunner from Unsplash.

Choose Your Eco-friendly Picks

Remember, every little bit counts! Opt for sustainable products to support green initiatives. Every small choice adds up to a healthier planet. We can all make a positive impact on the environment.