As July begins, we are reminded of the growing momentum of a global movement over the past five years—Plastic Free July. This initiative, which started in 2011, encourages individuals worldwide to reduce their single-use plastic waste through habit changes and community building. It shows how much can be achieved when many individuals and groups unite.
What is Plastic Free July?
Plastic Free July is a challenge that invites us to refuse single-use plastics for a month and find alternatives. It's a commitment to reduce plastic pollution, not just in July, but as a long-term lifestyle change. The goal is to create cleaner streets, oceans, and beautiful communities.
Why Participate?
The mission of embracing Plastic Free July encourages us to believe that small changes can make a big difference. By participating, we join millions of others worldwide in a collective effort to reduce single-use plastic waste.
This movement has already inspired over 100 million participants in 190 countries, making it a truly global effort. Your participation can contribute to this impactful movement.
It's this spirit of personal commitment that inspired us to write this post. As the founder of Hopeberry Soap, I am committed to personally eliminating plastic wrap usage in my home. Years ago, I managed to use one roll of paper towels for an entire year, replacing it with washable rags. This shows that change is possible, and I hope it inspires you too!
Plus, it's how Hopeberry Soap started. To learn more about our story, check out our post, Hope in a Bar: The Story of Hopeberry Soap and Sustainable Choices.
How to Participate?
Participation in Plastic Free July involves consciously refusing single-use plastics and finding sustainable alternatives. For instance, you can bring reusable shopping bags when shopping, say no to plastic straws, and get your coffee cup. Instead of plastic water bottles, you can use a reusable stainless steel or glass bottle. These are just a few examples of the many sustainable alternatives available. Check out the 10 WORST SINGLE-USE PLASTICS AND ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES post by WWF Australia.
The Impact of Plastic-Free July
The impact of this initiative is significant. Over the last five years, participants have avoided 10 billion kg of waste, including 1.4 billion kilograms of plastic. This collective effort has inspired 223 million behaviour changes, and 87% of participants make changes that become habits. Your participation can add to this collective impact. We want to give recognition to the creator, Rebecca Prince-Ruiz, along with a small team in local government, who initiated this campaign in Western Australia. Thank you for your contribution and for starting a global movement that still inspires us to change our habits daily! If you want to learn more about the organization, check them out online: Plastic-Free July.
Plastic Free July is more than just a month-long challenge; it's a lifestyle change that can significantly reduce plastic waste and contribute to a healthier planet. If you want to make a long-term difference, consider switching from bottle to bar. Click on 'shop' above to explore our vegan personal cleansing bar, a sustainable alternative designed for plastic-free living. To sustain these changes beyond July, consider identifying the single-use plastic items you use most frequently and finding their sustainable alternatives.
So, are you ready to take on this challenge and make a lasting impact?
Remember, every small change can make a massive difference. Let's be part of the solution to plastic pollution. Happy Plastic-Free July!
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