Six Strategies for a Plastic-Free Month in July 2021!
In the heart of summer, when outdoor activities like picnics, barbecues, and festivals are at their peak, a global movement is encouraging people to reconsider their everyday use of single-use plastics. Welcome to Plastic Free July, a campaign aimed at lessening the impact of plastic on our planet.
Launched by the Plastic Free Foundation in 2011, this month-long challenge has grown into a worldwide phenomenon. The campaign is particularly relevant during July, as it coincides with the peak holiday season when our enjoyment of nature and the environment is at its highest.
So, what can you do to participate? Here are some simple steps:
- Choose Nothing Over Plastic: If there is no alternative to plastic, it's better to choose nothing.
- Limit Food Packaging: Making conscious decisions in the supermarket to buy less packaged food can help reduce plastic waste.
- Carry a Reusable Bottle or Mug: Not only does this help reduce plastic consumption, but it can also save you money.
- Store Food in Non-Plastic Containers: Glass or metal containers are great alternatives for storing food.
- Avoid Bulk Buying Deals: Purchasing only what is needed can help limit plastic waste.
- Use Reusable Cutlery: Carrying reusable cutlery can help reduce the use of disposable plastic cutlery.
- Use Reusable Containers for To-Go Orders: Using reusable containers for beverages when ordering to-go can help reduce plastic waste.
- Refuse Plastic Straws: Refusing plastic straws when ordering a drink or meal can help protect the oceans from plastic pollution.
- Educate Others on Single-Use Plastic: Spreading awareness about single-use plastic and the need to reduce plastic usage can help make a difference.
- Use Your Voice to Encourage Corporations to Go Green: Social media can be a powerful tool to encourage large corporations to pursue greener options.
It's important to note that fewer than 10% of all plastic ever manufactured has been recycled. Plastic does not biodegrade and poses risks to both the environment and animals, with estimates suggesting that by 2050, there may be more plastic in the oceans than fish if habits do not change.
Joining the Plastic Free July challenge is a small step towards a significant change. Together, we can make a difference and help protect our planet for future generations.
- To reduce one's impact on the environment during outdoor activities like picnics and barbecues, consider replacing plastic fruits and vegetables with organic alternatives.
- In the realm of home-and-garden, opt for growing vegetables in your garden instead of buying them wrapped in plastic from the supermarket.
- When engaging in environmental-science studies, examine the long-term effects of plastic waste on plant and animal life outdoors.
- To contribute to the Plastic Free July movement, make a lifestyle change by using recyclable containers to store and carry home-grown fruits and vegetables.
