Plastic Free July: Top tips for reducing plastic

Blue and orange graphic displaying words 'plastic free july council member 2023'

Go plastic free this month and every month with these five top tips for reducing plastic.

1. Don’t forget to bring your reusable water bottle
Choose a socially responsible and environmentally friendly alternative, such as a reusable bottle made from stainless steel, glass, or safe aluminum.

2. Dine-in at restaurants and cafes
Not only is choosing to sit down and enjoy your meal at a restaurant or café a great experience, it’s also great for the environment. Eating in at restaurants means less plastic waste.

3. Buy your produce unpackaged
Look out for loose fruit and vegetables in your local grocery store, or head to a farmers market or organic store where plastic packaging is less often used. Choose to not bag your fruit and vegetables in the plastic bags usually provided at supermarkets. Instead, throw them in loose and wash them at home, or bring your own reusable bags.

4. Bring a reusable coffee cup
We all love to grab a coffee on the go, but most single-use coffee cups contain plastic and aren’t recyclable.  By bringing your own reusable coffee cup or taking the time to dine in at your favourite café, you can make a huge difference.

5. Choose to refuse plastic cutlery
If you’re going to be getting takeaway and eating it on the go, pack a set of reusable cutlery to take with you. It doesn’t have to be a special set – just a regular knife and fork from your home will work. You can also get lightweight bamboo cutlery, or a spork (fork/spoon all in one) designed specifically for taking with you.
 

Find out more about plastic free initiatives in North Sydney 

Head to Plastic Free July to pledge yourself to the challenge 

Published: 6 July 2023