Plastic-free July is a Global Movement with the goal of reducing our use of single-use plastics.

It’s shocking when you stop to notice how many single-use plastics are used in our everyday lives.
It may seem daunting, but swapping out single-use plastics for more sustainable options isn’t as difficult as it may seem.

If each one of us chooses to reduce our use of single-use plastics this month, imagine how much of an impact we’ll have on the well-being of the Earth.

Tips for reducing single-use plastics

There are some obvious ways to reduce our use of single-use plastics, like using reusable water bottles and saying no to plastic straws, but there are many we often don’t give a second thought about.

Teabags

Teabags are often made out of plastic. The wrapper for tea bags is made out of plastic.

Instead of purchasing boxes of tea bags, look for bulk tea. It’s often fresher and has much more flavor than boxed tea as well!

Packaged cheese and meats

If possible, buy cheeses and meats at the deli counter and meat department. Ask them to wrap your items in paper or bring your own container and ask them to use it instead. Some stores allow the use of outside containers, but others don’t so be sure to ask.

Trash Bags

Everyone uses trash bags without thinking twice about it. Trash bags are single-use plastics made for one purpose. To carry other single-use plastics and be thrown out.

Instead of filling the trash bin, try to compost and recycle as much as you can.

It’s amazing how much less there is to throw into the bin when we recycle and compost. Get guides for recycling and composting in my free resource library.

Check out my other posts for more tips on reducing single-use plastics:

10 ways to reduce plastic waste

Bringing your Eco-friendly lifestyle to work

Living with the Earth in mind

Beginners guide to sustainable living

Download my free eBook which offers more tips for reducing waste and living a sustainable lifestyle.

If you’re new to reducing single-use plastics in your life, start small. You don’t need to reduce all single-use plastics right away. That can be very overwhelming starting out, so just do what you can. Maybe start by using a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic bottles of water. Bring your own straw or go without a straw when dining at a restaurant.

We are all working toward a common goal. Some will be able to reduce more than others, so don’t feel bad if you can’t reduce all single-use plastics in your life. I certainly am not completely zero waste, but our efforts make a difference no matter how small.

Are you ready to take the challenge? Head over to Plasticfreejuly.org to join the challenge and get even more tips! 🙂

Don’t quit when July is over, continue to live plastic-free every day!

We only have one Planet. Let’s take care of it, as it takes care of us. The Earth and wildlife and future generations will thank you.

Will you be taking part in Plastic Free July?