This month is Plastic Free July, the 31 days every year when millions of people pledge to give up single-use plastics.
I join this pledge each year as a reminder of just how much plastic we consume and try to do my part to eliminate as much plastic as I can during this month. This year makes things a whole lot more difficult with the Coronavirus pandemic. Single-use items, from personal protective equipment (PPE) to disposable coffee cups are on the rise.
Here in Truckee, CA, I know that single use gloves and masks are littered on the roadsides and the shores of our beautiful lakes. Stores have paused on plastic bag bans and many other many states have backtracked on bag bans as well. Coffee shops have temporarily prohibited reusable mugs.
I am determined to keep fighting for a cleaner and healthier world, Join me this month for a Plastic Free July. Avoid as many plastic items in your life and replace them with a sustainable alternative.
Here are three ways to get started this year..
1. Avoid Plastic Bags While Grocery Shopping
For the time being, reusable bags aren’t allowed in grocery stores. But, I say no to single use bags at the store and I just leave the groceries in my cart and I’ve just been keeping the reusable bags in my car taking my groceries to bag in the car and avoiding the single-use plastic altogether.
2. Use a Washable Face-mask and Gloves– Not Disposable.
I’ve been opting for a reusable/washable mask. If you have spare fabric and can sew, make your own. For gloves, I’ve been wearing some ski glove liners that I usually use in the winter and just wash them after each use. And of course, washing my hands frequently.
3. Be Smart with Anti-Bac
I’ve purchased a large bottle of hand sanitizer instead of mini bottles and just refill my travel-size containers. I’ve also made my own hand gel using high % alcohol and aloe. And, at home instead of using disposable wipes, I’ve been using anti-bacterial spray with reusable cloth rags. If you do use wet wipes, do not flush them down the toilet They contain harmful plastic microfibers that end up in the water systems
There are many more ways to go plastic free, pick a couple that work for you and start the Plastic Free July Challenge today!
Eat less meat
Use a reuseable water bottle
Use canvas bags vs plastic
Ride your bike instead of driving to the store
Use bar of soap vs body wash
Purchase bamboo toothbrushes
Use reusable dishcloths vs paper towels
Shop at your local farmers market
Support local, sustainable businesses