A global movement which is helping millions of people around the world become part of the solution to plastic pollution is here! Plastic Free July is raising awareness of the single use plastics used by people everyday and how these plastics are having a detrimental effect on the planet's oceans, forests, streets and even the local communities we all live in.
Many people are still unaware of the negative impact their daily activities have had and are having on the environment. One of the ways the planet is being harmed is through the everyday use of single use plastics. This is a large problem which almost every human on earth contributes to.
It is estimated that on earth around 1.2million plastic bottles are used per minute and this is only one of the ways that natural environments like oceans and forests are being choked in real time.
Here are a few ways you can become part of the solution to plastic pollution (the fact it rhymes makes it even better!):
1. Reduce Plastic In Kitchens
Removing all single-use plastics from your kitchen is a great way you can begin making a small difference. It may be useful to create a list of all of the items you found in your kitchen which are plastic. The chances are, you’ll be surprised at how many there are!
Although things like plastic bowls, knives, forks, biscuit packets, teabags and water bottles seem convenient it's important to remember the bigger picture and the detriment items such as these items have on the health of the planet as a whole.
2. Talk To Others
Although social media is the main way messages and information can be spread nowadays, there is still nothing as powerful as speaking to others in person.
Speaking to friends, family members and other loved ones, letting them know about Plastic Free July and explaining the overall mission and how it will benefit the environments they live in is a great way to get them on board so you and all those around you can commit to becoming part of the solution so larger scale change can begin being made.
3. Use More Reusables
If you happen to be heading outside to enjoy the weather this summer, then why not start taking reusable items with you instead of single use plastics?
A great way to start making a difference is with water. Around 481.6billion plastic bottles are used worldwide each year and a staggering 91% of the plastic goes unrecycled. Choosing to drink from a reusable water bottle instead of a plastic one or even start in the bathroom by switching to fully recyclable safety razor blades will reduce single use plastic. And encouraging others to do the same is a great way change can begin being made.
4. Organise A Clean-Up
Gaining permission from your local council so you can gather people in the community to organise a clean-up is a great way to serve your local area.
If you’ve already spoken to others about Plastic Free July and they’re onboard with the mission then you’ve already got your tribe who can join in with you! If not, then it’s usually a good idea to knock on people’s doors or post leaflets through letterboxes to raise awareness of your clean-up plans and to invite others to get involved.
5. Petition Local Government
The best meaningful change can be made locally. This means that if we want to see change on a national and international level, then only local governments can start enacting this kind of change so it can then spread.
It’s a good idea to start petitions and initiatives in support of action against plastic pollution which gain the support of local residents and can then be brought to the attention of local governmental institutions. These local government institutions will then know that people want them to act in favour of protecting the local environment and the planet as a whole.
Bottom Line
The bottom line is that plastic pollution is everyone’s responsibility. By spreading the message and encouraging those we know to make small changes in their daily lives then more meaningful change can begin to be made on a local, national and international level.
If you want to find out more about how you can join in then visit Plastic Free July here.