Plastic Free July® 2022
29th June 2022
29th June 2022
Plastic Free July®, the global social movement that helps people be part of the solution to the problem of plastic, has announced 2022 a critical year to turn the tide on plastic pollution as businesses and governments respond to public concern.
Plastic pollution remains a truly global problem, affecting communities around the world. Despite our careful sorting, collection and recycling efforts, plastic is everywhere – from the deepest oceans to the summit of Mt Everest. It is not only littering the planet, but now littering our bodies, even found in the placentas of unborn babies.
However, 2022 has shown signs of progress. On 2nd March this year, the United Nations Environment Assembly agreed to create a historic global treaty to end plastic pollution in a landmark agreement. A shift that the UN says could reduce the volume of plastics entering oceans by over 80% by 2040; reduce virgin plastic production by 55%; save governments US$70 billion by 2040; reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25%; and create 700,000 additional jobs – mainly in the global south.
The theme of this year’s Plastic Free July ‘Turn the Tide, one choice at a time’ celebrates the collective impact of millions across the world choosing to refuse plastics.
Rebecca Prince-Ruiz, Founder and Executive Director of Plastic Free Foundation says: “Ending plastic pollution has never been more of a focus. Every choice we make in our own lives to reduce our plastic waste makes a difference, it sends a message and helps builds momentum – turning the tide on plastic pollution. By focusing on avoidance, Plastic Free July offers everyone, wherever they live, a way to make a difference and stop plastic pollution from leaking into the environment and impacting communities.”
She adds: “Together, we have already avoided 2.1 million tonnes of plastic waste, including millions of single-use drink bottles, coffee cups, packaging, straws and plastic bags.”
Over 100+ million people are making the switch to durable reusable items, avoiding packaging and reducing waste in their own lives. This community action sends a clear message to businesses and governments that it is time to end plastic pollution.
The Zero Waste Company in The Pantiles is a completely plastic free store in Tunbridge Wells. The aim of the shop is to provide a zero waste environment for customers, offering refill stations on bulk goods, household and personal toiletries, as well as ethical vegan make up, perfume and accessories.
The store works with a local farm to offer fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, and a zero waste florist for beautiful flowers without the cellophane. What’s more, they even have a café where you can collect your morning pick-me-up – bring a cup or container (or use the store’s compostable ones) and have a coffee to take away. Or hang out in-store in their comfortable seating area to sip into something special or enjoy a hearty meal.
Whether you are looking for an eco-solution to your shopping or a place to chill with some like-minded individuals, The Zero Waste Company have it all wrapped up for Plastic Free July!
Take the Plastic Free July challenge today by visiting plasticfreejuly.org