Can you go plastic-free for 31 days? More than 250 million people in 177 countries have taken part in Plastic Free July. From 1 to 31 July, people around the world give up single-use plastics and develop habits that will last them into the future. The organisation provides resources and ideas to help you reduce single-use plastic waste wherever you are.

Plastic Free for Individuals

We can all reduce our plastic consumption if we try. Whether you decide to take it slow, one change at a time, or you decide to go completely 'cold turkey', you can make a difference. Here are a few ways individuals can reduce their waste – whether for a single month, or beyond.

• Takeaway coffee cups (BYO reusable cup!)
• Fruit and vegetables (buy loose produce and avoid packaged groceries)
• Single-use shopping bags (again, BYO)
• Plastic straws (BYO or simply refuse – most of us don’t need them)
• Disposable water bottles (BYO … seeing a pattern here?)
• At the bakery (plan ahead to avoid pre-packed bread and baked goods. Find a bakery that will cater for your plastic-free goals)
• Meat, fish, and deli (avoid the plastic trays used for these items. Find a butcher or a local producer that you can buy from without plastic)
• Reduce, reuse, and recycle (if you must use plastic, at least dispose of it properly)

And remember, if you don't have the ability or the time to eliminate plastic from your life completely, don't worry! The plastic problem will be solved by lots of people doing small things, not a few people doing bit things.

Plastic Free for Businesses

Your Plastic Free July pledge doesn't have to be confined to your home - why not take it to work and try to make a broader difference? Own a business and want to give Plastic Free July a go, not just as home but at work as well? Read below for a few tips on how to make it work.

• Staff and customers (share the message and get others on board. The more people who take the challenge, the more impact we will make)
• Packaging (work out what your biggest source of plastic packaging is, and take steps to reduce or eliminate it)
• Foodservice items (make an effort to serve food without single-use plastic)

Want some inspiration on how to do takeaway without plastic? Have a look at our product page, and read about how to compost. Ready to take the pledge? Sign up here. Want more information? Have a look at the Plastic Free July website.  

Read about how we're helping to restore Australia's rainforests and why we love FSC-certified paper, on our blog.

Planet Friendly Packaging acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we work. Our thoughts go out to everyone affected by COVID-19. Stay safe.