Every year, 8 million metric tonnes of plastic end up in our oceans. Plastic wreaks havoc on marine habitats, with animals often mistaking it for food, causing blockages and malnutrition. Plastic also breaks up into much smaller particles, called microplastics. Because they are so tiny, microplastics have been found in seafood, air, rivers, soil, rain, drinking water, table salt and even your Friday night beer!
We can make a difference by reducing our reliance on plastics. Businesses have a big part to play in ensuring that their supply chain is sustainable. As consumers, we can tell companies what we want through our buying habits and ensuring that our personal consumption is as plastic free as possible.
Plastic Free July is a chance to take a step back and look at simple actions we can take to tackle plastic pollution.
Swap plastic clothes pegs for bamboo or stainless steel.
Instead of buying a new bottle of laundry detergent, refill it!
Swap plastic-packaged powders for cardboard.
Swap your fast spin for a slower one to avoid releasing plastic microfibres
Wrap your sandwich in reusable food wrap rather than cling film.
Swap the takeaway shop’s plastic container for one you’ve brought from home.
Feeling snacky? Head to a cafe or bakery — it’s easy to avoid plastic-wrapped snacks.
Know where to refill next and skip the single-use water bottle! Visit refillnz.org.nz
Pack your lunch and snacks before you hit the road to avoid single-use food wrappers.
Buy from road-side stalls. The fruit is normally package-free, cheaper, and delicious!
Swap single-use food containers and cutlery for the ones you packed before leaving home!
Swap shampoo bottles for shampoo bars! Carry them in a little tin box when travelling.
Switch your plastic cotton buds for compostable ones.
When your nylon dental floss runs out, replace it with the compostable kind.
Plastic toothbrush nearly dead? Get a bamboo one next time!
Buy in bulk or products packaged in glass or tin for a plastic-free pantry!
Your plastic dish brush is destined for landfill. Replace it with a composable brush.
When your plastic kitchen utensils need a refresh, get stainless steel or wood ones instead.
Swap cling wrap for compostable cling wrap or wax paper.
