Plastic-Free July is here, and it's the perfect time to rethink our daily habits and make more sustainable choices. This global movement encourages individuals to reduce their plastic consumption, and with a few simple changes, you can make a big difference. We’ve got a bunch of easy and unexpected ways to reduce your plastic use this summer and beyond. But first, let’s take a look at the inspiring origins of Plastic Free July.
Plastic Free July Was Started by One Australian Woman
At Ciclado, we talk often about the power of one person and how small sustainable actions can bring about big change. Rebecca Prince-Ruiz is a great example of this concept. She started Plastic Free July in 2011 with a small local government team in Western Australia.
Today it has grown to a worldwide event that millions of people participate in annually. The movement became such a powerful message that this team grew beyond just the single month and Prince-Ruiz founded the Plastic Free Foundation to provide even more strategies for moving away from plastic. Sign up for their Plastic Free July Challenge, but don’t worry, it’s not very challenging and by signing up they give you lots of tips! We’ve got plenty of ideas here to help get you off to a great plastic-free start:
1. Begin with the Obvious: Plastic Bags
One of the easiest swaps to make is switching from single-use plastic bags to natural reusable bags (or those made from recycled plastic!). Keep a stash of reusable bags in your car or by your front door, so you're always prepared for shopping trips. Also, consider supporting plastic bag bans in your local community if such a measure hasn’t already gone into effect.
2. Ditch the Plastic Bottles
Invest in a sturdy stainless steel or glass water bottle. They keep your drinks cold for longer and save you money in the long run. Plus, many coffee shops offer discounts if you bring your own cup! As an extra measure of sustainability, skip using paper cups. Although they can appear to have a low environmental impact, the plastic coating makes them less than sustainable.
3. Say No to Single-Use Straws
Join the growing movement to skip the plastic straw. Opt for reusable alternatives like stainless steel, bamboo, or silicone straws. They're easy to clean and can be a great conversation starter!
4. Shop at Bulk Stores
Bring your own containers to bulk stores and fill up on your favorite pantry staples like rice, beans, and nuts.
5. Use Beeswax Wraps
Replace plastic wrap with reusable beeswax wraps. They mold to the shape of your food and containers, keeping everything fresh without the waste. They're also easy to clean with just a bit of cold water and mild soap.
6. Select Solid Personal Care Products
Soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and lotions often come in plastic bottles. But there’s now a better way! Solid versions of these products boast minimal to no packaging and are often much lighter and smaller in volume than products packed with water. You’ll be amazed at how effortless and enjoyable this switch can be, so get ready to say goodbye to all of those clunky bottles cluttering your bathroom shelves. It’s easy to switch over to bar soap for hands and face. But you can also try out plant-derived zero waste bar shampoo, conditioner, and even organic deodorant available in both glass jars and travel packets.
7. Switch to a Sustainable Brushing Routine
You don’t need to stop at your hair and skincare. Make the switch from waste-heavy tubes of toothpaste to tablets, which are also available in mouthwash formulas. Complete your oral health upgrade with a compostable bamboo toothbrush!
8. Use Compostable Trash Bags
Replace your typical single use plastic trash bags with compostable ones. Made from plant-based materials, they will break down more easily, while still offering a strong tear and leak resistant construction.
9. Recycle Properly
Did you know it’s essential to clean your recyclables before putting them in the recycling bin? You should also double check your local recycling guidelines to make sure you’re not contaminating the recycling stream. Here are some plastic items which typically are not accepted by recycling facilities:
- Plastic bags
- Styrofoam
- Bubble wrap
- Straws
- Black plastic takeout containers
- Plastic plates and utensils
10. Pack a Waste-Free Lunch
Speaking of takeout containers, these single-use cartons and boxes are a big contributor to plastic waste. Consider packing a glass container in your travels to use for leftovers. You can also switch to reusable containers, cloth napkins, and stainless steel utensils for your packed lunches. Bento boxes are a stylish and convenient option for keeping your meals organized and plastic-free.
11. Avoid Synthetic Clothing
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that can be found in products like exfoliating scrubs and synthetic clothing. These tiny pieces of plastic can end up in our waterways and get stuck inside the organs of our bodies, potentially causing serious health risks. Opting for natural fiber clothing can cut down on the amount of particles being shed into the environment.
12. Look out for hidden plastic
Did you know that many tea bags contain plastic to seal the bag and ensure it holds its shape? When this plastic is exposed to high heat (like boiling water in the steeping process) this plastic can be shed into your beverage. Loose leaf tea or brands that use plastic-free, biodegradable tea bags are better for you and the environment.
Similarly, detergent pods can contain polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) or polyvinyl acetate (PVOH), water-soluble synthetic polymers which make up the outer casing. This casing is designed to dissolve in water; however, concerns have been raised about their environmental impact, including their potential to release microplastics into our water streams. An easy solution is to switch to laundry sheets, which are a convenient, no-mess form of concentrated detergent. With their lightweight and low volume, they boast a very low carbon footprint.
13. Avoid pre-packaged produce
Although it’s tempting to buy those pre-cut zucchini strands or watermelon chunks, it’s a much better option to purchase loose produce and bring your own reusable produce bags (or skip the bag entirely!). Any food waste from peeling and chopping can be tossed into compostable food scrap bags for tossing into the compost pile or organic waste bin. You’ll not only significantly cut down on single-use plastic but also save serious cash.
14. Choose Wooden or Metal Hangers
Plastic hangers can easily break and end up in the landfill. Wooden or metal hangers are more durable and a better environmental choice. During purchases at stores, remember to leave the hangers behind so they can be reused, rather than take and discard when you get home.
Now and in the Future, Be Kind to Yourself
Remember that every small change helps. It's okay if you can't go completely plastic-free overnight. Celebrate your progress and keep looking for new ways to reduce your plastic footprint. By adopting these simple tips, you can make a positive impact on the environment and inspire others to join the plastic-free movement, in July and beyond! Here at Ciclado, we’ll continue to partner with innovative brands that provide sustainable alternatives to plastic while maintaining the highest standards of practicality and dependability. With a little ingenuity and creativity, we can move away from our society’s dependence on plastic. Here’s to a happy Plastic-Free July!
Photo by @mali on Pexels.