Going plastic-free this July?

2026 is flying by, and we’re into July already and being reminded to be aware of reducing the amount of plastic we use.

Plastic Free July is a global movement encouraging millions be part of the solution to plastic pollution, so we can all have cleaner streets, oceans, and beautiful communities.

Will your household be part of Plastic Free July this year, by choosing to refuse single-use plastics? Saying NO to the top culprits – plastic bags, water bottles, plastic packaging on produce, and takeaway coffee cups - is actually easier than we think, and it could be the beginning of some beneficial new habits.

Here are some ways your household could go without buying or using single-use plastic this month.

In the bathroom:
- Swap liquid soap for bar soaps;
- Keep existing plastic bottles and tubs to be refilled, reused or recycled when empty;
- Consider replacing old toothbrushes with bamboo ones, or find one with a replaceable head;
- Switch to a safety razor with replaceable stainless steel blades – it will eliminate plastic and allow you to recycle the blades;
- Want to make your own soaps or shampoo? It’s surprisingly simple, and very satisfying. The internet is filled with online tutorials, including on the Plastic Free July YouTube channel.

In the kitchen:
- Re-use plastic bags, have paper bags ready, or just avoid bagging fruit and vegetables when at the greengrocer;
- Avoid pre-packaged fresh goods such as fruit, vegetables and meat;
- Always have spare re-useable shopping bags handy;
- Take a ‘keep cup’ when ordering takeaway coffee;
- Carry reusable water bottles instead of buying plastic ones;
- Buy grains, pasta, pulses, cereals and flour in bulk, then transfer to glass jars.

One incredibly easy – and fun – way to avoid plastics during July and forever, is to shop at your local farmers’ market. You might find you can do much of your shopping there, and make some new friends within your community at the same time.