This Plastic Free July we are asking the community to make some simple swaps to help make a big difference.
The plastic problem
Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time, as rapid production of disposable plastics far exceeds the world’s ability to deal with them.
Plastic packaging and single-use plastic items make up 60% of all litter in NSW, with much of this washing into waterways and the ocean. Globally, more than 100,000 marine animals and 1,000,000 sea birds lose their lives to plastic each year.
While plastic is recyclable, this doesn’t mean it always is – only 9% of all plastic ever made has been recycled with less than one percent recycled more than once. In 2024 alone, over 460 million metric tons of plastic will be produced, highlighting the need to reduce our reliance on virgin plastic.
Recycling remains essential, and by choosing products made from recycled materials we can support the recycling process, but it’s also crucial to cut back on plastic use altogether.
What can you do to help?
Take on the Plastic Free July challenge!
Join millions of people worldwide in taking some small steps to make a big difference – be part of the solution to plastic pollution! Plastic Free July is a great opportunity to find some great alternatives to single-use plastics to incorporate into your daily life. It is not about being perfect or totally avoiding all plastic – it is about doing what you can, where you are. By taking small, practical steps, Plastic Free July participants help to reduce around 300 million kilos of plastic polluting the world each year.
Sign on to the challenge here: Register for the official Plastic Free July Challenge
Some simple swaps to get you started
31 days of Plastic Free Ideas
Get your local school, workplace or community on board!
Choose from our range of free downloadable posters for you to print and display in your school, workplace or community meeting place.
