Plastic-Free July: Reducing Plastic Use and Uncovering Hidden Plastics

Image with Choose To Refuse logo to support Plastic Free July

 

As we continue to strive towards more sustainable practices in our work, the Environmental Team at Porterhouse is eager to raise awareness for an initiative that aligns with our ISO 14001 certification in Environmental Management and objectives to reduce our carbon footprint and be kinder to our planet: Plastic-Free July.

Every year, millions of people worldwide participate in Plastic-Free July, a global movement aimed at reducing plastic consumption and fostering a more sustainable lifestyle. The challenge encourages individuals and communities to rethink their plastic usage and find innovative ways to minimise waste.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you reduce plastic use, manage waste effectively, and avoid hidden plastics in everyday products.

Understanding the Plastic Problem

Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues today. It affects marine life, clogs waterways, and contributes to the ever-growing landfills. Many types of plastic are not biodegradable, leading to long-term pollution problems. Reducing plastic use isn’t just about large-scale actions; individual efforts play a crucial role in mitigating this global issue.

Strategies for Reducing Plastic Use

Embrace Reusables:

  • Shopping Bags: Carry reusable shopping bags instead of relying on single-use plastic bags.
  • Water Bottles and Coffee Cups: Invest in a durable water bottle and coffee cup. This simple switch can significantly cut down your plastic waste.
  • Food Containers: Use glass or stainless-steel containers for food storage and leftovers.

Say No to Single-Use Plastics:

  • Straws: Opt for paper, metal, or bamboo straws, or skip them altogether.
  • Cutlery: Bring your own cutlery when eating out or order food without the plastic cutlery option.
  • Packaging: Choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging.

Bulk Buying and Refills:

  • Bulk Bins: Shop at stores that offer bulk bins for grains, nuts, and other essentials. Bring your own containers to fill up.
  • Refill Stations: Use refill stations for household cleaning products, shampoos, and soaps to avoid plastic packaging.

DIY and Homemade Solutions:

  • Cleaning Products: Make your own cleaning solutions using natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon.
  • Beauty Products: Create homemade beauty products like scrubs and masks to avoid plastic packaging.

Tackling Hidden Plastics

Hidden plastics are those that are not immediately obvious but are present in many everyday items. Being aware of these can help you make more informed choices.

  • Clothing: Synthetic fibres like polyester, nylon, and acrylic are types of plastic. Opt for natural fibres such as cotton, wool, and hemp.
  • Tea Bags: Some tea bags are sealed with plastic. Choose loose leaf tea or brands that use plastic-free bags.
  • Chewing Gum: Many chewing gums contain plastic. Look for natural gum brands or switch to mints.
  • Personal Care Products: Microbeads in exfoliants and toothpaste are tiny plastics. Choose products labelled as microbead-free or make your own scrubs.
  • Disposable Wipes: Many wet wipes contain plastic fibres. Use washable cloths or biodegradable options.

Managing Plastic Waste

Even with the best efforts, avoiding all plastic can be challenging. Here’s how to manage the plastic you do use:

  • Recycle Correctly: Ensure you are familiar with your local recycling guidelines. Clean and sort plastics to increase the likelihood they will be recycled.
  • Upcycle and Repurpose: Get creative with plastic items you already own. Use plastic containers for storage or transform them into planters or craft projects.
  • Participate in Clean-Up Events: Join community clean-ups to help remove plastic waste from natural environments.

Advocacy and Education

Beyond individual actions, advocating for broader change is essential. Support policies and companies that prioritise sustainability and reduced plastic usage. Educate others about the impact of plastic pollution and the importance of reducing plastic use.

Conclusion

Plastic-Free July is an excellent opportunity to reassess our plastic consumption habits and make lasting changes. By embracing reusables, saying no to single-use plastics, and being mindful of hidden plastics, we can significantly reduce our plastic footprint. Managing waste effectively and advocating for systemic change further amplifies our impact. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier planet for future generations.

Get Involved

  • Join the Movement: Sign up for Plastic-Free July and commit to reducing your plastic use.
  • Share Your Journey: Inspire others by sharing your plastic-free journey on social media.
  • Stay Informed: Keep learning about sustainable practices and the latest innovations in plastic reduction.

Plastic-Free July is more than just a month-long challenge; it’s a step towards a sustainable future. Let’s make every month plastic-free.