Plastic Free July 2026: Reducing Plastic
What is Plastic Free July?
Every July, millions of people around the world take part in Plastic Free July – a global movement that encourages individuals, businesses and communities to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics and make more sustainable choices. Whether it's swapping disposable coffee cups for reusable ones, choosing plastic-free packaging, or recycling correctly, every action helps to reduce waste and protect our planet.
At Shorts Group, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that reducing waste, recycling responsibly and making conscious choices today will help create a cleaner, greener future for generations to come. Plastic Free July is the perfect opportunity to reflect on our everyday habits and discover simple ways we can all make a difference.
Why should we reduce plastic use?
Plastic pollution is one of the world's biggest environmental challenges, affecting our oceans, wildlife and climate. According to Surfers Against Sewage (SAS):
- Over 33% of fish caught for human consumption is contaminated with plastic.
- More than 98% of plastic is made from fossil fuels, making plastic production heavily reliant on non-renewable resources.
- Around 2.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide is released for every tonne of plastic produced, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.
These figures highlight that plastic isn’t just a waste problem, it’s also a climate issue. By reducing our plastic consumption, we’re helping to protect marine life, conserve natural resources and lower carbon emissions.
What are some simple ways you can reduce plastic use?
The good news is that small changes can have a lasting impact. Here are a few easy ways to reduce your plastic footprint:
Carry Reusable Alternatives
Keep a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, shopping bag and food container with you. Replacing single-use items with reusable alternatives quickly adds up over time.
Choose Less Packaging
When shopping, look for products with minimal or recyclable packaging, or buy in bulk where possible to reduce unnecessary plastic waste.
Recycle Correctly
Recycling is one of the simplest ways to reduce waste but it's important to recycle correctly. Check your local recycling guidelines and ensure items are clean before placing them in the recycling bin.
Here’s a great site to help with recycling correctly: Recycle an Item
Avoid Single-Use Plastics
Swap disposable cutlery, straws, cling film and plastic bags for reusable or compostable alternatives.
Support Sustainable Businesses
Choose companies that are committed to reducing waste, using recycled materials and developing more sustainable products and packaging.
Repair, Reuse and Repurpose
Before throwing something away, consider whether it can be repaired, reused or given a new purpose. Extending the life of products reduces demand for new materials and keeps waste out of landfill.
Every Action Counts
Plastic Free July isn’t about being perfect, it’s about making progress, one step at a time. Even one simple swap can reduce hundreds of single-use plastic items over the course of a year. When we all make small, positive changes, the collective impact is enormous.
Discover our range of sustainable products and recycling services, designed to help reduce waste, support the circular economy and create a greener future. Browse here.
