Items For a Plastic Free July
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When I think about this topic, I am reminded of a video that was going around social media of researchers removing a plastic straw out of a sea turtle's nostril. It's painful and sad to watch.
So in honor of Plastic Free July, I want to promote PlasticFreeJuly.org and its mission to challenge everyone to refuse single-use plastic products. Although this campaign started in Western Australia, plastic present in oceans and landfills is a troubling problem and a relevant issue everywhere! Check them out for support, free resources and ideas on how to hold your own plastic-free events. I love their great ideas especially in their FAQ's.
Did you know scientists estimate that by 2050 there will be more plastic than fish in the world's oceans? Australians alone use around 100 kg of plastic packaging per household each year. Choose to refuse single-use plastic this July by signing up for the Plastic Free July challenge at www.plasticfreejuly.org. By bringing your own reusable shopping bags, remembering reusable coffee cups and water bottles, and avoiding pre-packaged fruit and vegetables you can help make a difference. Signup to receive support through a weekly e-newsletter during the month and you won't be alone. You’ll be joining 100,000+ West Australians (and a million+ people world-wide) in making a difference. Avoid landfill, reduce your eco-footprint and protect the ocean from plastic pollution. -PlasticFreeJuly.org
Here are some items to have handy to avoid single use plastic!
Collapsable Shopping Bag
From grocery store trips to those impulsive buys, you can carry a collapsable shopping bag and use when needed. There are plenty of places that sell these types of bags. Here is the one that I own. I fold it up and store it in my purse. When it's unrolled, I like that it's a cross-body bag.
Reusable Bamboo Utensils
If you're feeling peckish and want a bite to eat, avoid having to rely on the plastic ware from restaurants. Store reusable bamboo utensils in your bag. Bamboo is a sustainable material because the plant grows rapidly. You can get similar portable reusable bamboo utensils here.
Reusable Water Bottles or Coffee/Tea Cups
I love drinking water and tea but I don't want to add to the growing landfill by purchasing the plastic bottles and disposable cups. Besides, filling up my water bottle and making my own tea saves money too!
I've also seen these sleek stainless steel water bottles lately. You can purchase something similar here.
Reusable Sandwich or Snack Bags
As an alternative to storing lunch in a plastic sandwich bag, there are sandwich and snack bags that can be reused, washed and also come in cute designs. Check them out here.
What are some of your ideas for a Plastic Free July? Let us know if in the comments.
