I’ve been taking part in Plastic Free July for a few years now, but there’s still plenty of things I could be doing better. Today I thought I would share what my Plastic Free July focus is for this year, and I’d love to hear about what you’re trying this year too.
Plastic Free July
In case you are new to Plastic Free July, it’s a worldwide movement that has been running for a number of years now and is all about reducing the amount of single use plastic used. They provide resources and ideas to help you reduce single use plastic waste at home, work, school or while travelling.
My Plastic Free July Focus
These days I am pretty good with things like takeaway coffee cups, plastic bags and the like, but there are definitely other others I can improve on.
I have a few sets of produce bags that I use regularly in place of those thin plastic bags, but I will be focusing avoiding plastic in other areas of my fruit and vegetable shopping. Pre-packaged spinach is a regular culprit, as are dried fruit and nuts. These will be one of my key focuses this month as I know I am lucky enough to have bulk options available to me, I just have to remember to use them.
Some other areas of focus for me this year are items like cheese and teabags. Rather than picking the pre-packaged cheese I will make an effort whenever possible to visit the deli with my own containers and get my cheese that way. I will also ensure that any new tea I buy in July will be looseleaf so I can avoid the sneaky plastic that comes with teabags. I have tea strainers both at home and at work so I really have no excuses.
That’s the theme in general for my Plastic Free July – shop locally. Not only do my local shops provide lots of ways for me to get what I need without the waste, but it’s always better to support local businesses!
I am also going to be more proactive in general. This includes picking up waste when I am out and about and disposing of it properly, and also being more hands on in my apartment building. We have shared bins and I made sure we put up signs when I first moved in reminding people what can be recycled, but they definitely aren’t always followed. I think it might be time for some reminders, and maybe even doing things like removing plastic bags from the recycling. Not really my idea of a good time, but it’s for a good cause!
One thing to remember though is every little change you make matters. You don’t have to be perfect to make a difference, and you really can’t fail at reducing waste. Do what you can, make it a habit and then try and build from there!
Are you taking part in Plastic Free July? What is your Plastic Free July focus?
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I Spy Plum Pie is Liz, an early 30s kiwi-born, Melbourne raised girl who is passionate about the environment and sustainability, food, exploring and learning new things. Join me on my journey to a happy, sustainable life!
Mika Major
September 4, 2019 at 9:15 pm (5 years ago)Plastic Free July is new to me. I’ve never heard of it until I read your blog post. Reducing my waste is something that is so important to me and I am learning more each day. Thanks for sharing these tips