Plastic Free July

Plastic Free July is a global movement to encourage everyone to eliminate the use of single-use plastics when and where possible. Plastics present a pervasive contaminant in our entire natural environment and up to 80% of the human population have measurable amounts of microplastics in their bodies. 

What can we do? Start simple. At work, focus on the workplace kitchen and/or breakrooms. Complete an inventory of all the single-use plastic items found in your workplace’s kitchen. You may be surprised by just how many there are! These include plastic cutlery, plastic plates, bowls and cups, bin bags, biscuit packets, teabags, and water bottles. Over time, as older items are completely used, we begin to purchase replacement items that do not include single-use plastics. Try to avoid replacing single-use plastics with single-use cardboard, bamboo, or “compostable plastic”. Instead, swap items for reusable alternatives, such as ceramic mugs, stainless steel cutlery and glass cups.

The second phase of this project is to examine the procurement of all office supplies as well as anything procured from an outside supplier. Where it makes business sense, choose vendors that offer greener or reduced packaging options.

For more great ideas and to sign up for the Plastic Free July challenge, please visit

www.plasticfreejuly.org.