On average, Australians use up to 130 kilograms of plastic each year and only 12 per cent of that is recycled.
Plastic Free July is an Australian-born initiative that encourages people to recycle more, with an ultimate vision of seeing a world free of plastic waste. Launched in 2011, Plastic Free July was started by the Plastic Free Foundation and a small team in local government in Western Australia. It’s now one of the most influential environmental campaigns in the world, with millions of people taking part every year. Numerous events, webinars and online workshops are happening throughout Australia, but naturally the hope is that many people commit to reducing plastic pollution far beyond July.
So how can you make a difference at home? Say no to single-use plastic with these affordable and innovative products from some of Australia’s most eco-minded companies.
Cleaning products.
Change is a brand new range of concentrated cleaning tablets that dissolve in warm water to create a cleaning solution that can be added to any spray bottle. Cleaning tablets for glass, the washing machine, your water bottle or multi-purpose use ensure your cleaning needs are covered without the use of single-use plastic.
TRY: Change’s multi-purpose cleaner starter kit, $ 12.99.
DIVE IN: For more information about Plastic Free July, visit plasticfreejuly.org.
Water bottles.
Stainless steel water bottles are an excellent alternative to single-use plastic water bottles – they’re environmentally friendly, durable and safe.
When single-use plastic water bottles are reused over time, cracks and dings can start to appear and plastic may be ingested. In fact, on average humans ingest 50,000 particles of micro-plastic a year.
TRY: Cheeki’s stainless steel insulated bottle, $ 34.95
Cling wrap.
Beeswax wraps are a great alternative to plastic cling film. Unlike other types of food storage, its breathable and help keep food fresh for longer. Beeswax also has natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
TRY: Beeswax Wraps Australia value pack, $ 40.
Say no to single-use plastic with these affordable and innovative products from some of Australia’s most eco-minded companies.
Toothbrushes.
With millions of plastic toothbrushes dumped into landfill each year, switching to a 100 per cent biodegradable bamboo toothbrush is a small change that can make a big difference.
TRY: Grants Of Australia’s bamboo toothbrush with charcoal infused bristles, $ 4.50. Every element of the toothbrush is eco-friendly – the bamboo handle can be composted and the bristles are recyclable.
Bin liners.
Switch plastic bin liners for an environmentally friendly option. Compostable bin liners are made from materials that degrade quickly and to meet home compost standards.
TRY: Seed & Sprout’s compostable bin liners (holds 8 litres) $ 7.