Strategies to Achieve a Plastic-Free July 2021!
In July 2011, the Plastic Free Foundation, a non-profit organisation based in Australia, launched an initiative that would soon resonate across the globe - Plastic Free July. The campaign, which retains July as its designated month, aims to demonstrate the impact of plastic on our environment and encourages people to think about their everyday plastic usage.
The choice of July for Plastic Free July is historical and practical. The campaign's inception coincides with its fixed month of focus, providing a clear, dedicated period each year when millions of people and communities worldwide are encouraged to reduce or refuse single-use plastics. This month-long timeframe helps participants build awareness and start forming lasting habits, as the goal is to empower people to make meaningful changes over a manageable, specific time period rather than overwhelming them to go plastic-free all at once.
The fixed timing in July provides a consistent, globally recognized time to promote actionable plastic reduction. The emphasis is on the campaign’s growth and ongoing challenge every July rather than the month having a unique attribute relating to plastic pollution itself.
Participants in Plastic Free July are encouraged to refrain from using or purchasing single-use plastics for a month. This simple act can help reduce plastic garbage, a significant source of pollution. For instance, using a cloth bag instead of plastic bags can make a significant difference.
Moreover, carrying a reusable bottle can help reduce plastic consumption and save money. It's a small change that can have a big impact, especially when millions of people around the world make the same choice.
The consequences of our reliance on plastic are far-reaching. Plastic does not biodegrade and can harm animals by clogging their stomachs, polluting waterways and highways. If we continue on our current path, by 2050, there may be more plastic in the oceans than fish.
Fewer than 10% of all plastic ever manufactured has been recycled. This statistic underscores the urgency of our need to reduce plastic waste. Plastic Free July is a step towards this goal, a collective effort to create a more sustainable future.
During the summer holidays, when we are mostly holidaying, July is a suitable time to draw attention to the growing amount of plastic debris. By participating in Plastic Free July, we can make a difference, one plastic-free day at a time.
- Incorporating an outdoor lifestyle during Plastic Free July by using reusable bags for shopping in home-and-garden stores can help reduce plastic waste.
- Adopting a more environmental-science conscious approach to home-and-garden care during Plastic Free July, such as growing one's own fruits and vegetables, lessens dependence on single-use plastics.
- By making a commitment to reduce plastic usage during Plastic Free July, one can contribute to the science community's efforts to address the growing threat of plastic pollution in our environment.
- Participating in Plastic Free July encourages a home-and-garden lifestyle change that not only saves money but also positively impacts the local environment and contributes to a larger, global movement towards sustainability.
