Every July, millions of people around the world take on a challenge that’s good for their health, their communities, and the planet. It’s called Plastic Free July—and it's more than just a catchy phrase. It’s a movement that inspires individuals, families, businesses, and governments to reduce single-use plastic waste and rethink the way we live.
Whether you're a seasoned eco-warrior or just curious about cutting back on plastic, this is your month to explore, experiment, and make small changes that add up to something big. In this post, we’ll explain what Plastic Free July is, why it matters, share easy tips to get started, and sprinkle in some surprising facts to keep things interesting.
What Is Plastic Free July?
Plastic Free July is a global movement that began in 2011 in Western Australia and has grown to involve over 100 million participants in 190+ countries. The initiative is run by the Plastic Free Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that envisions a world without plastic waste.
The idea is simple: choose to refuse single-use plastics for one month and see how much you can reduce. That could mean skipping plastic straws, bringing your own bags, or switching to plastic-free products in your bathroom and kitchen.
Learn more about the initiative at the Plastic Free July official site.
Why Plastic Free July Matters
Plastic is everywhere. From food packaging to toothbrushes, we’ve become so reliant on it that we barely notice it. Yet its impact is impossible to ignore:
- Per the World Economic Forum, every minute, a garbage truck of plastic ends up in the ocean.
- Only 9% of plastic ever made has been recycled according to the UN Development Programme.
Plastic doesn’t just go away—it breaks down into microplastics, contaminates water, harms marine life, and makes its way into the food chain. By reducing our plastic footprint, we help protect ecosystems, support cleaner air and water, and promote healthier communities.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it all at once. Even one swap—say, switching from plastic wrap to beeswax wrap—can be a powerful step toward a less wasteful lifestyle.
10 Easy Plastic-Free Swaps to Try This July
You don’t need to overhaul your life to make a difference. Start small with swaps that work for your routine and build from there.
1. Bring Your Own Bag
Plastic bags are used for minutes but stick around for centuries. A sturdy tote or mesh produce bag can handle all your shopping needs—and look good doing it.
Shop tote and mesh bags
2. Use a Refillable Water Bottle
Skip the plastic bottles and carry a reusable water bottle. You’ll save money and cut back on single-use waste.
3. Ditch Plastic Wrap
Cover leftovers with beeswax food wraps or silicone lids. They’re reusable, breathable, and way less wasteful.
Shop beeswax and vegan food wraps
4. Say No to Plastic Straws
Keep a stainless steel or bamboo straw in your bag if you need one. Or go without—many drinks don’t need a straw at all.
5. Switch to Bar Soap and Shampoo Bars
Bar soaps eliminate the need for plastic bottles and often contain fewer harsh chemicals. Bonus: they’re great for travel.
Shop bar soaps
6. Use a Bamboo Brush
Most plastic brushes end up in landfills or oceans. Bamboo brushes are biodegradable and just as effective.
Shop Bamboo brushes
7. Choose Refill Stations
Buy items like detergent, shampoo, or pantry goods from refill stores if available in your area.
8. Pack Lunch in Reusables
Use glass, stainless steel, or compostable containers to avoid disposable plastic food packaging.
9. Shop in Bulk
Buying grains, pasta, or snacks in bulk helps reduce the amount of plastic packaging you bring home.
10. Use Cloth Instead of Paper Towels
Unpaper towels or cloth napkins are a simple swap that reduces both plastic and paper waste in your kitchen.
Shop unpaper towels and cloth napkins
Fun Facts to Inspire You
A little trivia goes a long way. Share these around and surprise your friends:
-
One million plastic bottles are bought every minute.
(Source: The Guardian) -
The average person eats about 5 grams of plastic each week. That’s roughly the size of a credit card.
(Source: WWF Report) -
Plastic was invented just over 100 years ago, yet today we produce over 400 million tons of it annually.
(Source: OECD) -
If current trends continue, by 2050 there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean by weight.
(Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation)
Calls to Action: Simple Things You Can Do Today
If you're feeling inspired, great! Here are a few ways to get involved—no overwhelm required.
1. Pick One Area to Focus On
Start with your kitchen, bathroom, or on-the-go habits. Tackle just one, and you'll be surprised how manageable it feels.
2. Join the Challenge
Sign up at PlasticFreeJuly.org to commit to one month of plastic-free living and receive tips, resources, and inspiration.
3. Invite a Friend
Sustainability is better together. Share your goal with a friend or coworker and support each other through the challenge.
4. Support Plastic-Free Brands
Vote with your dollars. Shop from companies that prioritize zero-waste packaging, natural materials, and responsible manufacturing. (Need ideas? We’ve got a few bundles made for this month.)
5. Share What You Learn
Post about your swaps, challenges, or successes on social media (#PlasticFreeJuly). Awareness is contagious—in a good way.
Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Going plastic-free isn’t about being perfect—it’s about making better choices when you can. There will be slip-ups (hello, unexpected coffee lid), but every mindful action counts.
What matters most is that you’re showing up, trying new things, and being part of the solution. And who knows? That one habit you try in July might just stick around all year.
So here’s to you—and to a less plastic, more fantastic future. Let’s make it count.
Photo by Rui Stenio on Pexels.