The Canny Lass

This month is Plastic Free July month, a global campaign to inspire millions of people across the globe to reduce single-use plastic waste.

Running for the whole of July, this is your chance to help cut down on plastic waste by committing to reducing or eliminating single-use plastics.

Here’s what you can do to reduce single use plastics and waste:

• Bring Your Own Reusable Bags
  Always carry cloth or sturdy reusable shopping bags. Keep extras in your car or backpack.
• Use a Refillable Water Bottle
  Stainless steel or BPA-free bottles are eco-friendly alternatives to plastic water bottles.
• Swap Plastic Wrap for Beeswax Wraps
  Beeswax wraps are reusable and compostable — great for wrapping sandwiches or covering leftovers.
• Choose Reusable Produce Bags
  Ditch the thin plastic produce bags at the grocery store. Use mesh or cotton alternatives instead.
• Buy in Bulk
  Choose bulk bins for dry goods like nuts, rice, and pasta. Bring your own containers to fill.
• Bring Your Own Takeout Container
  Ask your favorite restaurant if they’ll put your food in your own reusable container.
• Switch to Bar Soap and Shampoo Bars
  Many bar soaps and shampoo bars come with minimal or no packaging.
• Make Your Own Cleaning Products
  Use vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils in glass bottles instead of buying plastic-packaged cleaners.
• Choose Reusable Coffee Cups
  Bring a thermal mug to your local café. Many places offer discounts for it!
• Buy Loose Produce
  Avoid pre-packaged fruits and vegetables. Choose items you can select yourself.

• Refill Household Products
  Shop at stores that offer refills for dish soap, laundry detergent, and more.
• Avoid Plastic Cutlery
  Carry a small travel utensil set in your bag or car for meals on the go.
• Use a Safety Razor
  Replace disposable razors with a metal safety razor and recyclable blades.
• DIY Snacks
  Make your own granola bars or trail mix to avoid single-use snack packaging.
• Support Plastic-Free Brands
  Look for companies committed to sustainable packaging and eco-conscious shipping.
• Skip Balloons and Plastic Party Decor
  Use paper streamers, fabric bunting, or flowers for decorations instead.
• Line Bins Without Plastic Bags
  Try newspaper linings or no liner at all for dry waste bins.
• Pick Cardboard Over Plastic
  Choose items in cardboard packaging when plastic-free isn’t an option (e.g., laundry powder in boxes).
• Get Involved in Local Clean-Ups
  Participate in beach or community clean-ups to help reduce plastic in your area and raise awareness.
• Switch to Refillable Pens or Pencils
  Use fountain pens or mechanical pencils instead of disposable plastic ones.
• Choose Cloth Napkins Over Paper Ones
  Cloth napkins are washable, stylish, and zero-waste.
• Use Reusable Makeup Remover Pads
  Replace disposable cotton pads with washable cloth rounds or pads.
• Make Homemade Yogurt or Snacks
  Reduce packaging waste from store-bought single-serve items by making your own.
• Shop at Farmer’s Markets
  Local produce is often sold loose or in paper bags, avoiding unnecessary plastic.
• Avoid Glitter
  Most glitter is microplastic. Use biodegradable versions if needed, or skip it entirely.

• Choose Compostable Dish Brushes and Sponges
  Use bamboo or coconut-fiber scrubbers instead of synthetic sponges.
• Use Glass Food Storage Containers
  Swap out plastic Tupperware for durable glass containers with silicone lids.
• Make a Zero-Waste Picnic Kit
  Pack reusable plates, cutlery, cups, and cloth napkins for outings.
• Buy Clothing Made From Natural Fibers
  Avoid synthetic fabrics that shed plastic microfibers in the wash.
• Ditch Plastic Lighters
  Use refillable metal lighters or matches.
• Avoid Individually Wrapped Items
  Buy larger quantities and portion them yourself into reusable containers.
• Opt for Reusable Menstrual Products
  Consider menstrual cups, washable pads, or period underwear.
• Use a Bamboo Toothbrush
  Replace plastic toothbrushes with compostable bamboo versions.
• Refuse Hotel Toiletries
  Bring your own reusable toiletry containers instead of using mini plastic bottles.
• Keep a Zero-Waste Kit Handy
  Include a container, utensils, a straw, a napkin, and a bag — ready for any situation.
• Gift Experiences, Not Things
  Avoid plastic-wrapped gifts by giving activities, memberships, or handmade items.
• Choose Loose Tea Over Tea Bags
  Many tea bags contain plastic. Brew loose-leaf tea with a metal strainer instead.
• Avoid Receipts Where Possible
  Many receipts are coated with plastic. Choose digital receipts when offered.
• DIY Toothpaste and Deodorant
  Make your own in reusable jars to cut down on plastic tubes and sticks.
• Educate and Inspire Others
  Share your plastic-free journey on social media or with your community to spread awareness.

Have you got any other suggestions? Comment below.

Information: Plastic Free July