Plastic Free July | Tips to Live Sustainably

Happy Plastic Free July!

Plastic Free July is a global movement and key initiative of the Plastic Free Foundation. It encourages us to pay even closer attention to our single-use plastic consumption and consider how we can make more sustainable choices in our day-to-day lives. Our efforts help to create better communities, cleaner oceans, and less pollution!

So, what are some easy things we can do this month (and beyond!) individually to lessen our impact and contribute to the movement?  

1 / Increase awareness 

Before marking a purchase of any kind, consider whether there's a more sustainable option. As you live your daily routine, really think about where you can make simple changes. It's often the smallest things that are overlooked.

For years, we've been provided with convenient options that lighten our mental load, giving us what we want, when we want it, and often at a lower cost. It's easy to mindlessly select these options, giving little thought to the impact on the planet. Unfortunately, the earth has suffered massively from convenience and over-consumption. Now, more than ever, it's crucial that we return to thoughtful and intentional decision-making in our day-to-day. 

Let's take berries as an example: Typically, they come in a plastic container but when in season, we can find them almost everywhere in cardboard punnets from local farms. Choosing to buy local berries may seem inconsequential but when part of a series of mindful swaps, choices like these can be hugely impactful. 

2 / Avoid impulse purchases 

This one goes hand in hand with increasing awareness. Next time you're considering buying something, stop and decide if you really need it. Buying nothing is a sustainable option in itself! 

Convenience usually comes with a cost and most of the time, that cost is unsustainable packaging. Consider where you can make changes that support your sustainability goals; do you have ten minutes to sit in and drink your coffee instead of taking it to go? Could you bring a reusable bag with you for your morning snack? Could you bring containers to your favourite takeout spot to avoid the extra packaging? 

But, it goes without saying that progress is more important than perfection and there are times when time, budget, logistics, schedule etc make it harder to make those conscious choices. Go easy on yourself and do what you can, when you can. 

3 / Buy pantry items in bulk

Avoid pre-packaged foods and opt for the loose alternative when you can. There are many zero-waste/ refill stores across Canada and a quick google will help you find one local to you. Don't forget to bring your containers! 

If you're lucky enough to have access to farmer's markets, take advantage! you can buy seasonal produce free from packaging and support your local farmers. 

It's also worth asking your favourite brands if they offer refill options of products you love, this'll save you from buying the original packaging time and time again. We offer our Hand & Body Wash, Shave Oil and Body Oil as refills so that you can reuse your original glass bottles and reduce unnecessary waste!

4 / Choose natural fiber clothing  

Did you know over 35% of microplastic pollution in our oceans comes from synthetic textiles? 

The production of Polyester, Nylon, and Spandex is highly polluting, and energy-intensive. Once they reach the end of their short lifetime, they can't be recycled.

Good for the planet and for your body, clothes made from natural fibres are both breathable and biodegradable. Whether you buy new or second-hand, look for fabrics like flax, silk, linen, cotton, wool, and rayon. 

This month, challenge yourself to look at your clothing labels and if you're seeing a lot of synthetic materials, take it as an opportunity to add mindfully to your closet moving forward. 

5 / Cook more meals at home 

Invite friends over for dinner instead of going to a restaurant or ordering takeout!

Cooking at home means you can make conscious decisions about what makes it onto your plate and how it gets there. Use local, seasonal ingredients as your foundation, building your menu from what you have access to. This means that not only does your food have a much lower carbon footprint (thanks to less travel time!) but it also encourages you to get creative.

Being intentional about sourcing and preparing our food brings awareness back to the importance of sustainability in our everyday habits. Cooking for friends is also so rewarding. It might sound cliché but, there is something so special about seeing your friends gathered around a table, sharing freshly prepared food, and enjoying the present moment. 

If you don't enjoy cooking, prep a simple snack board and ask everyone else to bring a dish so it feels more like a communal effort!

There are also  dozens of ideas on the Plastic Free July website to help get you started if you feel overwhelmed and don't know where to start.