31 Ways to Reduce Plastic Pollution for Plastic-Free July

• Carry reusable shopping bags

• Bring containers to a restaurant with you for leftovers.

• Compost waste scraps

• Bring your own reusable utensils / at food trucks or takeout, refuse bags, plastic cutlery, and condiment pouches. 

• BYO coffee cup

• Participate in a river or roadside cleanup

• Avoid individually wrapped items

• Replace beauty/hygiene products with natural alternatives like bamboo or cotton

• BYO water bottle.

• Opt for produce not wrapped in plastic, or shop from a farmers’ market.

• Avoid plastic condiment packets

• Shop from the bulk bins, and bring your own containers or bags.

• Avoid straws.

• Choose products with no or minimal plastic packaging.

• Try bar soap or shampoo.

• Choose glass or metal food storage containers

• Line trash cans with paper or compostable bags

• Avoid synthetic fibers

• Try toothpaste tablets

• Repair something instead of replacing it.

• Use washcloths instead of sponges or loofahs.

• Advocate for policy change

• Shop refill stores when and where you can.

• Make DIY cleaning products with vinegar, baking soda, and lemon.

• Use laundry sheets and dryer balls.

• Make your own salad dressing or buy condiments and dressings in glass.

• Use beeswax wraps instead of plastic wrap

• Use reusable bags and jars instead of plastic baggies

• Avoid disposable razors

• Use powder or plastic-free dishwasher and laundry detergent

• Audit your own plastic use.

Extra tips:

Buy bulk mulch vs. bagged. 

Bring your own produce bags to the store, instead of using the single-use plastic ones offered.