Plastic Free July 2024!

Plastic Free July is a global movement that encourages people to reduce their plastic consumption and waste throughout the month of July. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the environmental impacts of single-use plastics and inspire individuals, communities, businesses, and governments to take action towards a plastic-free future.

Plastic Free July originated in Western Australia in 2011, when a small group of individuals decided to challenge themselves to refuse single-use plastics for an entire month. What began as a local initiative quickly gained momentum and grew into a global movement, with millions of participants from over 177 countries joining in each year.

The concept is simple: participants are invited to choose one or more ways to reduce their plastic usage during the month of July. This can involve avoiding single-use plastics such as plastic bags, bottles, straws, utensils, and packaging, as well as finding alternatives or reusable alternatives wherever possible.

Plastic Free July encourages individuals to rethink their purchasing habits, adopt more sustainable practices, and advocate for positive change in their communities. By raising awareness about the environmental impact of plastic pollution and empowering individuals to take action, Plastic Free July aims to create a collective shift towards a world free from plastic waste.

Zero Waste California did its first Plastic Free July series in 2018 with fillgood.co. This year we are proud to bring back Plastic Free July with a summer theme!

Here are 20 summer-themed, actionable ways to reduce waste:

1. Swap Plastic Straws for Reusable Bamboo or Stainless Steel Straws: Sip your refreshing summer drinks guilt-free with reusable alternatives that won’t harm the environment.
2. Pack a Picnic Basket with Reusable Utensils and Containers: Whether you’re heading to the beach or the park, opt for reusable plates, cups, and utensils to enjoy your outdoor meals without creating waste.
3. Choose Beachwear Made from Recycled Materials: Look for swimsuits and beach attire made from recycled plastics to help reduce plastic pollution in our oceans.
4. Invest in a Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated under the summer sun with a durable, refillable water bottle instead of single-use plastic bottles.
5. Opt for Package-Free Snacks: Stock up on fresh fruits, nuts, and other package-free snacks for your summer adventures to minimize plastic packaging waste.
6. Host a Plastic-Free BBQ: Fire up the grill and serve up delicious, plastic-free BBQ fare using reusable plates, cups, and cutlery.
7. Make Homemade Iced Treats: Beat the heat with homemade ice cream or popsicles made without plastic packaging or single-use containers.
8. Shop at Farmers’ Markets for Local Produce: Support local farmers and reduce plastic waste by shopping for fresh, seasonal produce at farmers’ markets instead of supermarkets.
9. DIY Natural Bug Repellent: Keep pesky insects at bay with homemade bug repellent using essential oils and other natural ingredients, avoiding plastic-packaged alternatives.
10. Ditch Plastic Wrap for Beeswax Wraps: Preserve your summer fruits and veggies with eco-friendly beeswax wraps instead of plastic cling film.
11. Attend Plastic-Free Events and Festivals: Seek out plastic-free events and festivals in your community that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
12. Try Your Hand at Upcycling: Get creative with DIY upcycling projects using old beach towels, t-shirts, or fabric scraps to make reusable tote bags, beach blankets, or sun hats.
13. Explore Plastic-Free Camping Options: Pack reusable camping gear and opt for plastic-free camping essentials like biodegradable soap and compostable trash bags.
14. Support Plastic-Free Sunscreen Brands: Protect your skin from the sun’s rays with reef-safe sunscreen packaged in plastic-free containers to safeguard marine ecosystems.
15. Host a Plastic-Free Outdoor Movie Night: Gather friends and family for a plastic-free movie night under the stars, complete with homemade snacks and compostable popcorn bags.
16. Embrace Natural Fibers for Summer Clothing: Choose breathable, natural fiber clothing like cotton, linen, or hemp instead of synthetic materials that shed microplastics when washed.
17. Plant a Garden for Fresh Herbs and Produce: Grow your own herbs, fruits, and vegetables in a backyard garden or on a sunny balcony to reduce plastic packaging waste from store-bought produce. Depending on what zone you live in will dictate what you can plant in July. we’ve put together a list to help you get started.
18. Go Plastic-Free on Summer Trips: Pack reusable containers for snacks and meals, refillable water bottles, and cloth napkins for plastic-free road trips and pit stops.
19. Organize a Beach Cleanup: Gather friends, family, or community members for a beach cleanup to collect plastic litter and marine debris, helping to protect marine life and coastal ecosystems.
20. Spread the Word and Inspire Others: Share your plastic-free journey on social media, participate in local environmental initiatives, and encourage others to join the movement towards a plastic-free future.

By incorporating these summer-themed, plastic-free practices into your daily routine, you can make a meaningful difference in reducing waste and protecting the environment during Plastic-Free July and beyond.