It’s Plastic-Free July, so we’ve updated previous posts and added new posts to bring you about 30 ways to go plastic-free in 30 days. Our goal: to bring you as many ways as possible to help you replace your plastic goods with goods that aren’t plastic.
We’ll be covering a lot more about what’s wrong with plastic throughout the month. But for starters, one of the biggest problems with it is that the cheap stuff doesn’t biodegrade. In other words, it lasts forever (some of it lasts thousands of years, which is forever as far as I’m concerned).
Even when you think it’s gone, it’s broken down into tiny pieces of micro plastic that are getting into our food (like fish and oysters) and water.
Many plastic products also contain endocrine disrupting chemicals that leach into food or water. These are chemicals that can interfere with our fertility, as well as cause learning disorders and perhaps even cancer in children.
Why continue to use plastic when there are so many better, healthier, more eco-friendly alternatives?
A big reason is that you may not know how many great alternatives to plastic actually exist.
That’s why we’re dedicating this month to all things that aren’t plastic.
What can you change during a plastic-free July?
What’s on our list to help you have a plastic-free July:
plastic straws
Plastic picnic and party-ware (see, 4th of July)
plastic face mask
Bathroom plastics (like plastic microbeads in shampoo and lotion bottles and face wash)
plastic cups
plastic water bottles
Plastic Soda Bottles (Refill Instead)
Yogurt in plastic tub
plastic holiday wrapping
plastic cleaning products
Plastic Halloween Trick-or-Treat Bags
plastic ink cartridges
plastic sunglasses
Plastic Toys for Babies and Toddlers
plastic produce bags
plastic easter accessories
plastic pet supplies
plastic ocean trash
I could keep adding to my list, but I want to know what you need the most help with when you think about taking plastic out of your life.
please tell me! Either leave a comment below, or Visit the Big Green Purse Facebook page And weigh there.
Also, let me know what your biggest challenges are when you think about going plastic-free. If I can help you, I will!
Full disclosure: Big Green Purse has affiliate relationships with several companies that offer plastic-free products that we can highlight. If you purchase a product using our affiliate link we will earn a small commission. But please know that we would never do business with any of these people if we didn’t think they were good enough. And commissions enable us to bring you the expert information you need to live the greener life you want, at no extra cost. Thank you!
10 Easy Swaps and Beginner Ideas for Plastic-Free July
- How To Ditch Plastic Straws?
Guide on finding and using reusable metal or bamboo straws.
- How To Choose a Reusable Water Bottle?
Explain different materials (metal, glass) and features to consider.
- How To Pack a Plastic-Free Lunch?
Tips on reusable containers, wraps, and utensils.
- How To Host a Plastic-Free Party?
Provide ideas for decorations, tableware, and avoiding plastic packaging for food.
- How To Go Plastic-Free in the Bathroom?
Alternatives for shampoo/conditioner bottles, razors, and personal care products.
- How To Avoid Microplastics in Cosmetics?
Guide on identifying plastic-free and natural beauty products.
- How To Shop Plastic-Free at the Grocery Store?
Tips for using produce bags, bulk bins, and choosing products with minimal packaging.
- How To Make Your Own Reusable Shopping Bags?
Upcycle fabric scraps or old clothes into reusable totes.
- How To Find Plastic-Free Alternatives for Everyday Items?
Guide on swapping plastic wrap, storage containers, and cleaning supplies.
- How To Start a Plastic-Free Challenge with Friends and Family?
Tips on setting goals, sharing resources, and staying motivated.
FAQs:
Plastic doesn’t biodegrade and breaks down into harmful microplastics. It also contains endocrine-disrupting chemicals, impacting fertility and causing health issues.
There are numerous alternatives to single-use plastics, including reusable straws, bamboo utensils, stainless steel water bottles, and cloth grocery bags.
Metal or glass reusable bottles are great choices. Look for BPA-free options.
Definitely! Use paper plates and cups made from recycled materials, or opt for bamboo or stainless steel options.
Look for “microplastic-free” labels or choose natural alternatives like oatmeal scrubs.
You can reduce plastic waste in your bathroom by switching to shampoo bars, refillable soap dispensers, bamboo toothbrushes, and reusable cotton pads.
You can minimize plastic packaging by buying in bulk, choosing products with minimal packaging, bringing your reusable bags and containers, and shopping at zero-waste stores.
Eco-friendly alternatives to plastic toys include wooden toys, cloth dolls, and toys made from recycled materials, which are safer for children and the environment.
Dispose of plastic responsibly by recycling whenever possible, participating in community clean-up events, and advocating for policies that reduce plastic usage and pollution.
Long-term benefits of reducing plastic consumption include cleaner oceans, healthier ecosystems, reduced carbon emissions, and improved human health and well-being.