A month without buying any new single-use plastic products may seem like a daunting task for many Americans. According to Oxford University’s Our World In Data, Americans go through about five pounds of plastic a week, most of which ends up in landfills and takes centuries to decompose. This high level of plastic waste led to the creation of the Plastic Free July movement, which encourages individuals to reduce their single-use plastic consumption and advocate for systemic change.
Rebecca Prince-Ruiz, the founder of the Plastic Free July movement, was inspired to start this initiative in 2011 after visiting a local recycling facility in Western Australia. Witnessing the massive amount of plastic waste generated by her town motivated her to take action. She and her coworkers decided to cut out single-use plastics from their lives the following month, sparking a movement that millions have since joined.
Living plastic-free has led Prince-Ruiz to develop new habits and appreciate the little things in life. Simple actions like enjoying a cup of coffee at a cafe instead of rushing with a plastic cup or making garlic bread from scratch have allowed her to be more mindful and present. Plastic, she believes, symbolizes the fast-paced and disposable nature of our society.
Preparing for a plastic-free July involves carrying a “plastic-free kit” with essential items like a food storage container, reusable silicone bag, silverware, straw, water bottle, cup, and cloth for various situations. Prince-Ruiz recommends starting with small changes and not overwhelming oneself by trying to do everything at once. The key is to find sustainable alternatives that align with your lifestyle to avoid burnout.
While reducing plastic use may require more planning, time, and money, individual actions can make a significant impact. Last year, 89 million people worldwide participated in Plastic Free July, collectively reducing over 500 million pounds of household single-use plastics. This growing movement has put pressure on businesses and governments to address plastic waste, leading to systemic changes.
Joining the plastic-free July challenge involves cutting out online shopping and food delivery, using reusable containers for bulk items, carrying a kit whenever you leave the house, and replacing single-use plastics with sustainable alternatives. Making snacks at home can help avoid plastic packaging from fast food and delivery services. While going plastic-free may be easier in some locations, like Washington, D.C., where bulk stores are accessible, it presents challenges and benefits that will be shared in a follow-up report on July 26.
By taking small steps and making conscious choices to reduce single-use plastics, individuals can contribute to a global movement towards a more sustainable future. Prince-Ruiz’s initiative highlights the power of individual actions in driving meaningful change and inspiring others to join the fight against plastic pollution.
