Heres How And Why You Should Take Part In #PlasticFreeJuly
“Imagine a world without plastic waste. That’s the mission behind Plastic Free July – to build a global movement that dramatically reduces plastic use and improves recycling, worldwide.”
1. Who?
The idea of #PlasticFreeJuly originally began as an idea from a small group of people in Western Australia in 2011, and today, has evolved into a mass movement with millions of people all over the world (from more than 150 countries) participating.
They envision a world without plastic waste.
2. Why?
By encouraging people to be more aware of their plastic use, it will be possible to envision and create a cleaner world for generations to come. This involves encouraging behavioural change and helping others to more habitually #choosetorefuse shopping bags, straws, takeaway containers and coffee cups.
3. How?
To get started with the #choosetorefuse challenge this Plastic Free July, follow these five steps (by the Plastic Free July website):
Step 1:
Sign up to be counted and they will send you helpful tips and recipes straight to your email inbox throughout July.
Step 2:
Take their Pesky Plastics Quiz to help you track down where your plastics come from.
Step 3:
Choose what you will do based on how much you can handle at first:
- avoiding the plastics that seem to fill your recycling bin;
- targeting the takeaway items that could end up in the ocean;
- going completely plastic free (finding alternatives to everything) for a day, week, month or more.
Step 4:
Explore their Toolbox Tab and spread the word:
- Chat with and challenge friends;
- Post your successes on social media;
- Post the challenge the old fashion way (with posters about town);
- Ask your local café or shop to seek plastic free alternatives
Step 5:
Share your challenge and progress on social media, tag @PlasticFreeJuly and use the #PlasticFreeJuly and #ChooseToRefuse hashtags.
