By Kelly Maue
What started as a simple idea evolved into a global environmental movement. In 2011, a group of fellow employees in Australia challenged each other to cut out single-use plastics for an entire month. Today, Plastic-Free July is an annual effort where millions of people from more than 190 countries participate.
Cutting out items like plastic bottles, straws, forks, and bags adds up. It’s estimated that the Plastic Free Foundation, the independent nonprofit that grew from the original effort, is responsible for preventing over 10 million tons of waste, including nearly 2 million tons of plastic. And most of these plastics never fully decompose.
Rethinking these small, everyday choices can help lead to a cleaner community. While it may feel overwhelming to cut out all single-use plastics, every little bit helps. A good way to start is with some simple swaps.
Skip the plastic shopping bags and bring your own reusable cloth bags from home. Cut out those single-use water bottles and bring your own reusable bottle; keep drinks cooler in a stainless steel or glass tumbler or thermos. Avoid disposable coffee cups and opt for the real deal. Bring your own to use if necessary. For carry-out meals, refuse the plastic cutlery and keep a set of reusable bamboo or metal utensils handy – the same goes for straws.
More intentional changes can be added on. Try bar soap and shampoo products instead of those in plastic bottles. Trade in your giant jug of detergent for newer alternatives, like laundry sheets. Forego plastic cling wrap and opt for reusable beeswax wrap. And buy in bulk when it makes sense, which reduces excess plastic and packaging.
Every one of these actions contributes to a healthier planet. But don’t be overwhelmed; just a few changes here and there make a big difference. Perhaps start with a few kitchen changes, then consider cleaning products or personal care. Or focus on items like shopping bags and a thermos cup for on-the-go use. Start small and then see what else feels doable.
At least one country is now 100% plastic-free. Rwanda is the first nation to accomplish it, and its government strictly enforces the plastic ban. In fact, anyone possessing plastic pays a fine. It’s impressive to see what’s possible when people work together towards a common goal.
While going completely plastic-free is impractical, making meaningful changes is possible for everyone. Perfection is not the goal – rather, it’s the cumulative effect of making better choices. And when one person makes a plastic-free change, it encourages others to do the same.
Make some positive changes during Plastic-Free July. Then see if the momentum continues beyond the challenge. Each plastic-free choice and activity contributes to the overall goal of cleaner communities and a healthier planet.
EXPLORE SOME RELATED CONTENT AT hecmedia.org:
Plastic the Future Then…and Now was a special exhibit at Saint Louis University
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