Our top tips for going plastic free this July

Globally, less than 10% of plastic is ever recycled. It can break down into smaller and smaller pieces in the environment, in landfill, or in our streets, green spaces, rivers and oceans. We are only beginning to find out about effects on microplastics on human health, and we already know the damage it is doing to our oceans.

Plastic is a valuable resource, and is so important in many uses. It’s not about removing plastic from our lives completely, it’s about changing the way we use it, and taking small steps to reduce single-use plastic in our lives, and our communities.

Small changes really do build up if we all do it together.

Plastic water bottles can take over 400 years to break down, but there are so many refillable bottles on the market. If you can, invest in a sturdy stainless steel bottle that will last. Many cafes allow re-filling of water bottles with no charge, and new water stations are popping up around the UK.

The UK uses 2.5 billion disposable coffee cups every year, and only 1% end up being recycled, that’s a lot of waste going to landfill.

Coffee cups may appear paper, but many contain a plastic PET lining, which can be difficult to recycle. With so many degradable, biodegradable and compostable options available, it can be confusing which products are the greener alternative. One thing we know, reusable cups not only prevent plastic pollution but also reduce waste and carbon emissions.

Find out if your local coffee shop offers a discount for reusable coffee cups, or find out if there is a local cup re-fill scheme in your area.

Say no to flimsy plastic bags when shopping, and always opt for more sturdy bag options. Bags for life sales are increasing, and flimsy plastic options are still frequently used as a disposable bag. In 2019, supermarkets still sold 1.58 billion bags for life, that’s 1 a week for everyone in the UK. Here’s some tips to avoid buying plastic bags:

• Keep bags in your car, and replace after a shop so you always have some ready.
• Look into foldable or keychain reusable bags for convenience shops
• Ask for a cardboard box instead of a bag
• Check out Mors Bag, and find your local reusable bag group or get making your own >> More info here

Think about your plastic impact when shopping. You may not be able to remove all plastics from your shop, but even small changes can have a big impact.

• Say yes to loose fruit and veg, and use reusable fruit and veg bags.
• Look out for cardboard, tin and glass alternatives to plastic products.
• Use the Deli Counter, and bring your own containers from home
• Be mindful of greenwashing. Be wary of products advertising ‘% less plastic’, or labelling hard to recycle soft flexible plastics as a greener alternative.
• Find your local Milkman! Glass milk bottle deliveries are making a come back and are becoming more widely available.

Here’s some great ways to find out about plastic free options in your area:

• Sign up to Plastic Free Communities, and get more great tips and individual actions plans >> Sign up here
• Contact your Plastic Free Community and find out about schemes and events local to you >> Find Your Community
• Join millions of people participating in Plastic Free July >> Find out more
• To find your local re-fill shop, or water re-fill point, head to >> City to Sea Re-fill App