July is here RYSERS, and with it comes an exciting global challenge: Plastic Free July! This is your chance to join millions of people worldwide in saying goodbye to single-use plastics and hello to a more eco-friendly planet. But don’t worry, we’re not here to lecture you, we’re here to show you just how fun and rewarding going plastic-free can be.

But what is Plastic Free July? It’s a global movement that encourages individuals, communities, and businesses to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics. This annual challenge not only highlights the pervasiveness of plastic in our daily lives, but also empowers us to make sustainable choices that benefit our planet. Here’s why participating in Plastic Free July can be transformative and how you can get involved. Ready to take the plunge? Let’s dive in!

The Problem with Plastic

Imagine a world where every piece of plastic ever made still exists. Sounds like a sci-fi-horror, right? Unfortunately, this is our reality. Marine life gets tangled, ecosystems get disrupted, and even our own health is at risk due to micro plastics in our food and water. Plastic Pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. Over 300 million tons of plastic are produced annually, with at least 8 million tons ending up in our oceans each year. This plastic waste harms marine life, disrupts ecosystems, and even enters our food chain. Microplastics, tiny particles resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic items, are now found in the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, and has now been found in the human heart, lungs, brain, breastmilk and testicles!

The Benefits of Going Plastic-Free

1.Save the Turtles (and Other Wildlife): By cutting down on plastic, you’re directly helping to save marine animals who often mistake plastic for food. Imagine the high-fives (or flipper-fives) you’d get from the sea turtles! By reducing our plastic consumption, we can significantly decrease the amount of plastic waste entering landfills and oceans. This reduction helps protect wildlife and preserve natural habitats.

2.Glow Up Your Health: Ditching plastic means fewer nasty chemicals like in your life. Your body will thank you for it with healthier, more vibrant you. Many single-use plastics, such as food packaging and water bottles, contain harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates. Eliminating these plastics from your daily routine can reduce your exposure to these toxic substances.

3.Cost Savings: Believe it or not, going plastic-free can save you money! Those reusable items like stainless steel water bottles and cloth/mesh produce bags pay for themselves in no time, leaving you more cash for fun stuff. These durable products reduce the need for constant replacements and disposable alternatives.

4.Join the Cool Kids: There’s a growing community of eco-warriors out there, and they know how to have a good time! Participating in Plastic Free July can foster a sense of community and shared purpose. From beach clean-ups to zero-waste parties, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to make new friends and have a blast.

5.Feel Good Vibes: Making sustainable choices gives you a sense of accomplishment and purpose. It encourages mindfulness about consumption patterns and fosters a greater sense of responsibility towards the environment. It’s like being a superhero for the planet — cape optional.

How To Get Started

1. Your Plastic: Take a look around and see where plastic sneaks into your life. Begin by identifying the single-use plastics you frequently use. Is it those pesky straws, takeout containers or plastic bags?

2. Swap it Out: Find fun and stylish alternatives. How about a quirky, reusable shopping bag that shows off your personality, or a sleek, stainless steel water bottle that makes every sip feel fancy? Instead of buying your lettuce in plastic boxes, bring your own mesh produce bag and fill it with your fresh lettuce.

3. Support the Good Guys: Think of it as casting your vote for a better world every time you shop. Choose products form companies that prioritize eco-friendly packaging and sustainable practices. Supporting these businesses can drive market demand for more sustainable alternatives.

4. Spread the Word: Share your Plastic Free July journey with friends and family on social media. Raising awareness about the impact of plastic pollution encourages others to join the movement. The more the merrier!

5. Keep the Momentum: Plastic Free July is just the beginning. Make these changes stick, and soon they’ll be second nature. Imagine the difference we can all make together. While Plastic Free July is a month-long challenge, aim to incorporate these habits into your daily life beyond July. Every small change contributes to a larger impact.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned eco-warrior or just dipping your toes in, every effort counts. We can turn the tide on plastic pollution and create a brighter, cleaner future. So grab your reusable bottle, don your eco-friendly hat, and let’s show the world how fun and fabulous going plastic-free can be! Ready to make this July the best one yet? Join the Plastic Free July challenge and watch how your small changes can make a big splash. Together, we can make a difference!