Plastic Free July
Plastic Free July is a global movement started by the Plastic Free Foundation that encourages people to reduce single-use plastics and to be part of the solution to the growing plastic pollution problem—so we can have cleaner parks, streets, and healthier oceans and communities.
During Plastic Free July, take the opportunity to learn more about the impacts of plastic pollution and discover simple ways to reduce your plastic use.
Plastics can harm humans and ecosystems and are particularly threatening to wildlife. Plastic does not biodegrade; rather, it breaks down into smaller particles called microplastics. Marine animals and birds confuse microplastics for food, leading to digestive issues, illness, and death.
The infamous North Pacific Garbage Patch, a 620,000 square-mile floating mass of plastic debris and particles accumulating in the Pacific Ocean, is a prime example of the global plastic pollution problem. The plastic containers, toys, toothbrushes, fishing nets, microplastics, and other items floating in the monstrous patch (some of which have been there for decades) demonstrate that the production and use of plastics are unsustainable practices that will remain a problem far into the future.
On land, plastic materials are filling up landfill space, where they will remain indefinitely. While plastic recycling programs have become more commonplace in the U.S. over the last few decades, scientists estimate that only around 9 percent of all the plastic waste generated globally is recycled.
What Can You Do?
During Plastic Free July and beyond, consider taking the following actions to reduce your use of plastics:
- Swap single-use plastic bags, bottles, and containers for durable reusable alternatives.
- Refuse single-use items when they aren’t necessary and buy in bulk when possible.
- Avoid products with excess plastic packaging. Fortunately, there are more sustainable packaging alternatives to polystyrene and other single-use plastics. For example, bioplastics derived from plant-based materials offer a viable alternative that is no less convenient than real plastic. Aluminum, cardboard, and bamboo can all be used to create to-go containers and utensils.
- Seek out grocery stores and restaurants that allow you to bring your own reusable carryout containers. This option is a “win-win” – you and your favorite restaurant save money on wasteful containers, and you reduce the amount of waste heading to landfills or the environment.
- If you have no choice but to use plastic, make sure you deposit it in a recycling bin when you are done with it, so it can be recycled and doesn’t pollute the environment.
Learn more about the Plastic Free July challenge, and explore their website for more ideas, resources, and practical ways you can reduce your plastic use throughout July and beyond.
