Plastic Free July

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Small steps make a big difference

From humble beginnings in 2011, Plastic Free July® has become an annual month of global change, where individuals, communities and organisations come together to take action to reduce plastic waste. By sharing ideas, positive actions and stories of change, Plastic Free July helps people “choose to refuse” single-use plastic every day.

Every small step we take to avoid single-use plastic can make a big difference towards: 

  • Protecting the ocean 
  • Reducing consumption and production
  • Avoiding landfill waste 
  • Connecting communities for a world without plastic waste

As an official Council Member, we are actively supporting our community to choose to refuse single-use plastic directly as well as pledging to make a difference by eliminating single-use plastic from our offices and events (see our Single-use Plastic Policy).  

The Plastic Free July challenge provides resources and ideas to help participants (millions around the world) reduce single-use plastic waste every day at home, work, school, and in the community. Over the last 5 years, participants have collectively avoided 10 billion kg of waste, that's more than the combined weight of 55,00 blue whales!

Getting started is as easy as choosing one single-use plastic item to avoid or swap for a reusable alternative. Get started with this Action Picker to browse some popular ideas and make your pledge!

How to get involved in six easy steps

  1. Register for the challenge. Participants receive weekly tips to help them to keep motivated, and enjoy stories from others around the world who are reducing plastic waste

  2. Take the Pesky Plastics Quiz to find what plastics you can change

  3. Watch our one-minute animation to get started or browse these popular ideas to reduce 

  4. Download some posters and to share at work or the local cafe

  5. Read inspiring stories of what others do

For more information and free resources, head to the Plastic Free July website is a great place to get inspiration and support, and to share your tips, ideas and experiences.

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