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Simple steps to minimize plastic waste
This month is Plastic Free July, a global movement to minimize plastic waste. Plastic Free July is all about taking small steps to reduce our use of single-use plastic and keep plastic trash out of our ecosystems and waterways. This month and beyond, try these 10 easy plastic-free swaps to minimize your plastic use in the kitchen, house cleaning, running errands and more.
In this article: Stasher Platinum Silicone Food-Grade Reusable Storage Bag, Grove Co. Multipurpose Cleaner Refill Concentrate and Iron Flask Co-Pilot Insulated Mug with Straw and Flip-Cap Lids
What is Plastic Free July?
Plastic Free July was founded as a grassroots campaign in 2011 and has since evolved into a global movement, with millions of individuals pledging their participation. It’s estimated that 2021’s Plastic Free July eliminated more than 2 million tons of plastic waste.
As consumers become more aware of the dangers of microplastics and the threat plastic trash poses to Earth’s oceans, pressure is growing on manufacturers to reduce their introduction of petroleum-based fabrics, including polyester and nylon, as well as their reliance on plastic packaging. Individual consumers can also do their part by educating themselves on plastic pollution, recycling and alternatives to single-use plastics.
Plastic Free July: Minimize plastic waste
Try some of these ideas as part of your Plastic Free July pledge:
- At home: Switch to household cleaners packaged in reusable glass bottles. Try Swedish dishcloths instead of plastic-wrapped paper towels and beeswax wraps instead of plastic cling wrap.
- Out and about: Get in the habit of bringing reusable shopping bags (including bags for produce), straws, coffee cups and water bottles on outings. If you stop for a snack, look for items that aren’t packaged in plastic.
- At work: Audit your workplace’s trash cans to see what can be recycled instead. Replace single-use plastics in the break room or kitchen with compostable or bamboo options.
- In your community: Organize a cleanup of a local park or beach. Share resources for proper waste disposal and recycling in your region.
- Recycle better: Research local recycling policies to ensure your plastics are being properly disposed of. See if there’s a local company or collection point that can recycle plastic that might otherwise end up in a landfill.
Plastic Free July: systemic impacts
Ultimately, we as consumers can use Plastic Free July as a way to implement small changes that can establish better habits. However, our impact as individuals is always going to be tiny compared to the plastic waste generated by companies. In fact, research has found that about 50 companies are responsible for more than half of the branded plastic found in the environment. Plus, single-use plastics play an important role in some settings and for people with accessibility needs, so they can’t be eliminated entirely without some major systemic changes.
To make your Plastic Free July pledge go farther, spend some time this month contacting your representatives to pressure companies and manufacturers to reduce their reliance on plastic, especially plastic packaging. Ask your local government to model sustainable behaviors to set a good example for the wider community.
Best Plastic Free July plastic swaps
Keurig My K-Cup Reusable K-Cup Pod Coffee Filter
K-Cup pods are now made with recyclable materials, but they may not be recyclable in all areas. To help reduce plastic waste from Keurig coffee makers, fill this filter, which is free of bisphenol A (BPA), with coffee grounds instead of buying pods. It can be used in more than a dozen Keurig models.
Green Sprouts Reusable Insulated Sandwich Bags, 2-Pack
The insulated lining in these reusable snack bags helps keep their contents fresh for longer. The bag is dishwasher-safe and features a label for personalizing the bag for your child. Choose from 10 color and print combinations.
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel 4-Piece Reusable Straw Set with Case
If you usually grab a plastic straw with your to-go beverage, keep these extendable stainless steel straws in your car or bag instead. The set comes with two stainless steel straws, each with a soft silicone tip, as well as a cleaning brush and carrying case.
Grove Co. Multipurpose Cleaner Refill Concentrate
The Grove Co. cleaning system reduces household plastic waste by using refillable glass spray bottles and concentrated cleaning solutions that ship in recyclable aluminum packaging. This six-pack of plant-based, all-purpose cleaning concentrate can be used to clean hard surfaces throughout your home.
BAGGU Standard Set of 3 Reusable Bags
These popular shopping bags are lightweight yet sturdy, with strong stitching and ripstop nylon fabric. They have a deceptively large capacity, carrying up to 50 pounds, and fold up into a compact package. Plus, they can be machine-washed.
Stasher Platinum Silicone Food-Grade Reusable Storage Bag
These reusable bags aren’t just for food storage: They can also steam-cook and sous vide food, and they can go in the freezer, microwave or oven. With dozens of sizes and colors available, Stasher bags can replace single-use plastic bags all over your home.
If You Care Reusable Sponge Cloths
Also known as Swedish dishcloths, these durable, reusable cleaning products are made from an absorbent blend of wood pulp and cotton. They can be cleaned in the dishwasher or washing machine and each cloth replaces up to 15 rolls of paper towels.
Juju World Silicone Straws, 15-Pack
Use these rainbow-hued straws to sip hot or cold drinks. They’re made from food-grade, dishwasher-safe silicone and ship in plastic-free packaging. Make sure they’re extra-clean thanks to the included scrub brushes.
Food Huggers 5-Piece Reusable Silicone Food Savers
Wrap these colorful, stretchy silicone food savers over cut produce or open cans and jars to keep them fresh without plastic cling wrap. Each set comes with five flexible sizes, allowing you to preserve foods up to the size of a bell pepper. Choose from five cheerful colorways.
Iron Flask Co-Pilot Insulated Mug with Straw and Flip-Cap Lids
Make sure you’re getting enough water without having to resort to single-use water bottles with this insulated cup. It’s available in four sizes and a rainbow of colors. Each one comes with two lids, one for straws and one with a flip opening.
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