Plastic Free July is an annual movement that encourages people to reduce plastic use on a global scale. In 2020, it was estimated that 326 million people got involved. Join them this year by making small changes in your venue. 

It is a simple concept with massive results just by becoming conscientious of everyday plastic usage and the consequences of our actions if we do not change. It is shocking that of all the plastic ever produced less than 10% has been recycled.

This movement is more important than ever as we are still recovering from the pandemic. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was highly important; however, we still have no official guidance on how to recycle things like masks. By participating and contributing to the Plastic Free, we can stop the increase of pollutants and save the planet for future generations. 

How can your venue participate? 

Single Use Items 

Items like takeaway coffee cups are detrimental to reducing plastic waste. Introduce an initiative to get customers to bring in their own coffee cups for takeaway. By taking 25p off the price for a reusable cup, the customer is happy and so is your carbon footprint. 

Compost Bins and Soft Plastic Collections 

Set up a compost bin for tea bags, coffee grounds and food waste. This can be collected or taken to a local waste site. Also, set up a soft plastic collection area for things like bread bags, biscuit wrappers and plastic bags. These are both great ways to recycle even more plastics.

Start a Conversation with Staff and Customers 

By holding an event, or an awareness week, it starts the conversation with others about the amount of plastic being used daily. Keep it positive and focus on solutions and invite non-profits who tackle the plastic crisis to talk to staff and customers about the problem. 

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.

Check out their website at https://www.plasticfreejuly.org/ for more information and ideas to get involved.