Striving for a Plastic Free July

By Larraine Roulston The Plastic Free Foundation partners with the corporate, philanthropic and community sectors to help affect the behaviour change required to create a healthier environment. With the help of aligned partners, they aim to become world leaders striving to be free from plastic waste. If, or when, we face a shortage of oil, will we begin to see plastic items prioritized? Less plastic toys, no inner plastic film on takeout coffee cups, and the gradual decreasing single-use food containers? It’s an anti-plastic challenge for you to tackle! My plastic rant questions the following: Why are 5 avocados in a plastic net bag cheaper than purchasing them loose? Who decided that loose mushrooms should be in a single-use air tight container where they decompose quicker? Why are children’s birthday party loot bags still popular? Generally, they contain 30 seconds of enjoyment from a little plastic toy, wrapped individual candies, plastic stickers, and a couple of magic markers. Will dental floss ever be PFC free? Most floss comes packaged in a plastic case. The floss is coated with Perfluorochemicals (PFCs) which is the non-stick coating found on teflon pans. Switch to a natural floss like silk Why do some grocery shoppers place bananas or a melon into a small plastic bag? Storing leftover food in glass jars or glass snap-ware containers is a healthier option than using plastic tubs. Want to phase out plastic wrap? One solution is reusable beeswax wrap, or simply scoop that bit of food in a bowl and refrigerate covered with a plate! Soap bars are wrapped in paper or sold without packaging. Using a bar of soap that was handled by someone else is just one small way to strengthen your immune system. Will soap bars make a comeback? When did Chiclets gum switch from a boxboard container to one that has each piece surrounded by a plastic bubble? Did you know that chewing gum contains plastic particles? A new study revealed that microplastics are being found in saliva. How many women know that many menstrual products are made of plastic? Best to opt for organic cotton tampons or switch to reusable menstrual cups. Can you say goodbye to your pink plastic razors? If so, swapping to a stainless steel safety razor with replaceable blades will last a lifetime, and save money. Did you know that you can go without using shampoo for weeks once your hair is accustomed to not being shampooed every 3 days or so? Shampoo bars can replace plastic bottles. You can wash your hair with a tablespoon of baking soda in a cup of water. Test out the No Shampoo method. Will board games ever come without little plastic markers? Players can find items around the house such as coins, buttons, and bread tabs to use instead. Are you ready to take the July Plastic Free Challenge?