C&G's Guide to Plastic Free July

Tips & Advice

Plastic Free July is a global movement seeking to minimize the use of single-use plastics and contribute to a cleaner world. While it may initially seem daunting, small, consistent changes to your daily habits can make a real difference, and this one-month commitment is the perfect place to start. In our latest blog, C&G looks at some easy ways to cut your plastic waste and minimize your environmental impact.

 

Invest in reusable shopping bags

 

Remember to take your own bags to the supermarket or shops to prevent you from purchasing a plastic shopping bag unnecessarily. A great way to remain prepared is to invest in an Baggu bag or similar, as these take next to no room in your purse. It’s also good to keep a few reusable bags tucked in the boot of your car for those weekly grocery shops.

 

Use a reusable coffee cup

 

If you're a daily worshipper of caffeine, it’s worth investing in a reusable coffee cup. Glass KeepCups are a great place to start, as they have minimal plastic components and are very easy to keep clean. An added bonus of going reusable is that some cafes will give you a discount for bringing your own cup, meaning you’re cutting costs while cutting plastic use!

 

Buy bulk amounts or shop at bulk stores

 

Buying in bulk is one of the best ways to cut out the consumption of unnecessary packaging. Items like toilet paper (such as Who Gives a Crap), washing powder and olive oil are all easy to purchase in bulk amounts and are relatively simple to store at home. For unusual shopping list items, visit specific businesses such as The Source Bulk Foods. You can fill up your own containers with everything from pasta to cleaning products, further cutting your environmental footprint.

 

Avoid plastic wrapped fruit and vegetables

 

Choose loose items over pre-packed or plastic-wrapped fruits and veggies and avoid plastic produce bags for storage. Instead, store items in the fruit basket or vegetable crisper. The life of leafy green vegetables can be prolonged if stored in a plastic container within the fridge.

 

Swap out other single-use plastics for reusable alternatives

Plastic straws can be replaced with stainless steel alternatives. If you’re out at a bar or restaurant, remember to request in advance that your drink be left bare of plastic.

Beeswax food wraps can be used instead of plastic wrap in your own home. These wraps also have amazing anti-bacterial properties that help to keep your food fresher for longer. Finally, it’s worth investing in some quality storage containers that are both microwave and freezer safe. Having a range of different sized containers will help accommodate for all the different types of food you’ll be storing.