Say no to single use plastic during Plastic Free July
This month is Plastic Free July, an annual campaign organised by the charity Plastic Free Foundation Ltd to encourage people to be part of the plastic pollution solution and help reduce plastic waste. Whether it’s making small steps to reduce plastic use or going entirely plastic free, we can all make a difference.
If you haven’t already started Plastic Free July, that’s okay. We have a some tips to help you get underway and move towards being plastic-free.:
Use reusable bottles and cups – take your own reusable water bottle or coffee cup when you’re out and about. You could also join the new Cheshire Cup scheme, a local reusable coffee cup project set up by Eco Communities with the support of the Council.
Reusable shopping bags – remember to take along your reusable bag when you are out shopping to avoid having to purchase an additional plastic bag.
Avoid buying plastic packaging – instead of buying food with excessive plastic packaging, you could go to the greengrocers or a butcher with your own containers, or select loose fruit and vegetables at the supermarket.
Buy reusable decorations – if you’re hosting a party, choose decorations that can be reused, such as bunting, pom poms, lanterns, and banners.
Reusable plastic tubs – use covered dishes and reusable plastic tubs for leftovers rather than using clingfilm.
Switch from bin bags to newspaper – lining your food caddy with newspaper can be a great plastic-free alternative to bin bags and plastic bags. Top tip: add coffee grounds to help with the smell and flies. Friends of the Earth have some useful tips on keeping your food caddy clean and smelling its best in this online article.
Use plastic-free cleaning alternatives – assess your current cleaning products and see if you can find plastic-free alternatives. You could also make your own using vinegar and bicarbonate of soda. This article provides some advice on how best to use these household items for cleaning.
Swap liquid soap for bars of soap – liquid soap typically has much more plastic packaging than bars of soap. Cut down on excessive plastic by purchasing solid soap with minimal packaging.
Find out more about how you can get involved with Plastic Free July.
If you have any of your own tips or a story you’d like to share about cutting down your use of plastics please upload it to the ‘Your Stories’ section of the Climate Emergency Inspire hub.
