It's time for the Plastic Free July challenge

You don't have to go 100% plastic-free to take part in Plastic Free July. It's a fantastic opportunity to kick-start new habits and truly understand just how much we rely on single-use plastic without even realising it. 

Some commonly used plastic items, such as plastic single use shopping bags have already been banned by the government, but there are still lots of things we can do. 

So, where can you begin? Well, you can start small or set yourself a bit of a challenge. Here are some common plastic items and their alternatives. 

• Single-use plastic water bottles: Invest in a reusable water bottle – this will also save money on buying water when you can get it free from the tap at home! Win-win!  

• Takeaway coffee cups and lids: Consider taking a reusable coffee cup when you buy a coffee – some cafes even give you a discount if you bring your own. If you forget your cup, you could ‘go topless’ (don’t panic – it’s just refusing the plastic lid!).  Where to recycle your coffee cup 

• Plastic cotton buds: Bamboo cotton buds work just as well as the plastic versions.

• Plastic containers for food storage: Grab some glass or metal containers instead; or use any glass jars that you’ve emptied. They are durable, reusable, and don't leach harmful chemicals into your food.  

• Shampoo and conditioner: Another easy swap you can make is using a bar of soap and shampoo bars instead of the liquid versions that come in plastic bottles. The bars usually have minimal or recyclable packaging and last longer, saving money as a bonus. 

• Tea bags: Did you know that some tea bags contain plastic? Switching to loose-leaf tea is a fantastic alternative.  

• Plastic wrap: Beeswax wraps or silicone food covers are an excellent replacement for plastic cling film when it comes to covering food.  

• Produce bags: These are on the list of items being phased out in supermarkets, so get ahead of the game by bringing your own lightweight, reusable fruit and vegetable bags when you go shopping. It's a simple change that can make a big difference. 

And when you are shopping, try to choose products with minimal packaging. Look for items in glass containers or those made from recycled materials. It's a small step towards reducing waste. 

Remember, even the smallest changes add up, and every effort counts in creating a more sustainable and plastic-free future.  

Some things we can’t avoid, so here are ways you can recycle them:

How to recycle medication blister packs 

Recycle your plastic bread tags 

Common recycling mistakes 

Visit plasticfreejuly.org