Plastic Free July

Plastic Free July is a global movement that helps millions of people be part of the solution to plastic pollution – so we can have cleaner streets, oceans, and beautiful communities.

Learn more about the campaign:

• Yes, I will take the challenge (learn more on their website)
• Watch the 'Plastic Free July' video
• Take the Quiz to help track the trends in plastic use

Check out this handy guide by Everyday Plastics, packed with great tips and hacks to help you get started! Whether you’re just beginning your journey to reduce plastic, looking for fresh ideas, or seeking a reset on your sustainable habits, the guide has something for everyone.

Want some tips to find out how you can reduce plastic waste? The good news is, anyone can get involved. You can start out small, or really challenge yourself! Get inspired using the tips below.

Smart shoppers stop and think before buying: Do I really need this? Or, Could I buy a plastic free alternative, or could I buy it second hand instead.

Read more on:

• our buying less stuff page
• Plastic-Free July's buying less stuff page

Bulk food shopping - often pre-packaged food and drinks can be avoided by shopping at a bulk food store or choosing the loose option at the grocery store.

Refill shopping - from food to cleaning and bathroom products. Local refill shops have the plastic free alternative. Find them on our Zero Waste Map.

Reusable coffee cups - most disposable coffee cups aren’t recycled. By bringing your own reusable coffee cup, or taking the time to dine-in at your favourite café, you can make a huge difference.

Plastic free picnic - food can really bring a community together, so what better to inspire people to choose to refuse single-use plastics than with a (plastic free, of course) picnic!

Sanitary items - there are many fantastic and cost-effective alternatives to single-use tampons and pads (including incontinence products), which can help you make a positive impact. Find out more about our £10 voucher scheme.

Cloth nappies - there are many benefits to using reusable nappies, including on your pocket and the environment. There is lots more information, including how to apply to our £30 voucher scheme.

Balloons & decorations - swapping balloons and other single-use plastic party decorations for reusable and eco alternatives is the way to celebrate in style without having a devastating impact on the environment.

Party hire kits - if you're having a party why not hire the plates, cups, and cutlery instead of buying disposable ones? Find a party kit local to you.

Bathroom - there are many simple solutions for the bathroom which not only will reduce plastic waste from soap and shampoo bars to dental options. Changes not only have a positive impact for the environment but can also have a positive impact on your budget too.

Soap - your shower habits can have a positive impact on the environment by swapping out single-use plastic packaged shower and shave products for bars of soap.

Reduce single-use plastic at school - from reducing plastic in lunch boxes, to providing schools with lesson ideas & resources, we have a scheme for schools.

Head here for more plastic swaps.