I’m celebrating the phenomenon that is Plastic Free July. This environmental initiative began in Western Australia in 2011 and has evolved into a massive global movement that demonstrates the power of collective action against plastic pollution. Their aim is to share simple tips on reducing your plastic waste – an approach that’s close to my heart.
Plastic Free July 2024 was the biggest yet, with a staggering 16% of global consumers (over 174 million people), from across 190 different countries taking part in the challenge. Over the last 6 years, participants have reduced their household waste by 3.8 %, avoiding a staggering 12.8 billion kilograms of waste – which is a perfect demonstration of their motto “small steps, big difference”
The campaign has also been successful in creating lasting behavioural shifts. Research indicates that participants have made millions of behaviour changes which suggests the initiative goes beyond temporary July participation to create sustained plastic reduction habits.
If you’d like to join the millions of people taking the pledge – join here to find out just how easy it can be Plastic Free July – Be Part of the Plastic Pollution Solution. You’ll find specific articles for schools, businesses, communities, events and Governments.
With plastic being manufactured from oil – when our focus needs to be on reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, every single swap makes a difference. Then there’s the huge hazard to wildlife we’re seeing from plastic waste floating round in our oceans. And scientists are now finding microplastics in many parts of the human body as we each breath in around 6 grams of microplastics every week. A very scary statistic!
Reducing your plastic waste is better for the health of the planet, our wildlife and our own health. So now you have access to so many tips on reducing your plastic waste – will you be joining this revolution?