What is Plastic Free July?
Plastic Free July is a plastic waste avoidance campaign, aiming to help communities, companies and governments to take practical action to reduce plastic waste.
Starting in Australia almost 15 years ago, it’s become a global event, with millions of people taking part every year and continuing these habits far beyond July. Anyone can join in!
Going plastic free
Firstly, don’t worry or try to make too many changes at first. Use our action plan and top tips so that small changes to become plastic-free can easily fit into your day-to-day life.
Take a look on the Plastic Free July website at some of the Ideas and solutions, as well as case studies and examples to see how other people cut down their plastic use.
Saving money
Reducing plastic often means saving money. Bulk buying, only getting what you need, not buying plastic bags, avoiding buying pre-packaged items and buying loose things can help you spend less. For example, some takeaway coffee shops give money off when you bring your own reusable mug.
Do I need to buy new things before I start?
Definitely not! Instead of buying new ones, make use of things you already own, such as Tupperware, takeaway tubs, reusable bottles, zip lock bags and plastic shopping bags. Reusing strong and durable plastics will cut down on how much disposable plastic packaging you need.
Are there any other benefits in reducing plastics?
Yes. As well as environmental and cost saving reasons, reducing your plastic use can mean shopping less and saving time. For example, you might shop less often and spend less time sorting your waste.
Is it still worth recycling my plastics?
It definitely is! Recycling your plastic waste means we make the most of the materials which have been used to make them. All plastic we recycle in North Yorkshire is sorted and reprocessed. Find out what goes in your recycling bin.
Next steps and quick wins
Reducing plastic bag use
Use a reusable cloth shopping bag. Leave cloth bags in the boot of your car, and a fold-up one in your handbag or rucksack so it's always handy on the go. Buy loose fruit and vegetables instead of those wrapped in plastic.
Reducing single use coffee cups
Carry a reusable flask or mug for hot drinks. Ask coffee chains to fill it up, instead of a disposable cup. You will reduce plastic waste and save money - some places offer a discount for a reusable cup.
Reducing disposable nappies and sanitary products
Go for washable cloth nappies instead of disposable. If you have a baby, you could save up to £500 by opting for cloth nappies and even more if you have more than one child and can reuse them. There’s lots to choose from, so do your research.
Switching to reusable period products means producing less waste - find out how to reduce plastic and waste with reusable period products.
Reducing plastic bottles
Invest in a reusable bottle and fill up at home before you leave, or refill with free water in offices, schools, shops and event venues. Look at the Refill campaign for friendly places to refill your bottle.
Consider having a milk delivery - replace your plastic milk bottles with a traditional reusable glass bottle delivered to your home.