Plastic Free July is an annual global movement that empowers millions of people to be part of the solution to plastic pollution. This initiative challenges individuals and businesses to choose to refuse single-use plastics. 

At fulFILLed Lifestyle Co., we are committed to this cause and helping those in our community make impactful, lasting changes that protect and preserve our environment

photo courtesy of Plastic Free Foundation

The Urgency of the Plastic Pollution Crisis

Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues we face today. Plastics are ubiquitous in our daily lives—it’s in the food we eat, the water we drink, and even the air we breathe. Alarmingly, a 2022 study found that for the first time in human history microplastics were found in 80% of participants’ blood. Half of those samples contained PET plastic, commonly used in water and soda bottles, while a third contained polystyrene, used in food packaging and other products.

The persistence of plastic pollution is staggering. Plastic is designed to last, and it does—for up to 400 years or more. Instead of biodegrading, plastic breaks down into smaller pieces, creating microplastics that infiltrate ecosystems and human bodies alike. Since mass production began six decades ago, 8.3 billion metric tons of plastic have been created, most of which has ended up in landfills and oceans.

The Scale of the Problem

The first global analysis of all plastics ever done revealed that only 9% of plastic has ever been recycled. If current trends continue, scientists predict that by 2050, there will be more plastic in the ocean by weight than fish. 

Recycling alone is not a viable solution to this crisis, especially as the fossil fuel and petrochemical industries invest billions in new plastic production plants. The World Economic Forum predicts that plastic production will double in the next 20 years, exacerbating the already dire situation.

It’s Okay to Start Small

While the realities of the plastic crisis may feel overwhelming, we’re hoping that these statistics inspire action. Here are some practical steps to help you participate in Plastic Free July and beyond:

1. Follow the Three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, ReFILL

• Reduce: Minimize your single-use plastic consumption by being prepared with your own reusable items like reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags.
• Reuse: Opt for reusable items whenever possible. Say no to single-use plastics like straws, utensils, and packaging by bringing your own.
• ReFILL: Stop buying your trash. Instead bring your empty containers to fulFILLed Lifestyle Co. to reFILL with non-toxic household cleaning and personal care products.

2. Identify Your Plastic Hotspots

The first step to reducing your plastic waste is identifying where it comes from. Is the majority of your single-use plastic from the grocery store? Are your beauty products the main problem? What items do you frequently buy and throw away?

By pinpointing these areas, you can find sustainable alternatives that fit your habits.

3. Make Sustainable Swaps

Don’t feel pressured to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight. Focus on one area at a time and gradually incorporate changes. This approach makes the transition more manageable and sustainable.

Here are some small, affordable changes that are easy to integrate into your life:

• Kitchen: Use mesh produce bags, glass containers for leftover food storage, silicone bags instead of ziplock, and beeswax wraps instead of plastic wrap.
• Bathroom: Switch to bamboo toothbrushes, plastic-free toothpaste and deodorant, bars of soap, and refillable beauty products like those from Elate Beauty and Rebrand.
• Laundry: Clean up your laundry routine with non-toxic laundry detergent. Use wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets or line dry your clothes. Speaking of clothes, shop second-hand first and choose natural fibers when possible.

4. Utilize What You Already Have

The most sustainable option is to use what you already own. Before purchasing new reusable items, see if you can repurpose items you already have at home.

5. Plan Ahead

Transitioning to a plastic-free lifestyle requires some upfront planning:

• Keep reusable bags and containers in your car or bag so they’re always handy.
• Prepare snacks and meals at home to avoid plastic packaging from takeout and convenience foods.
• Create an at-home refill station. By buying in larger volume, you can reFILL less with us and more often at home! 

6. Support Plastic-Free Businesses

Look for brands that prioritize sustainability and offer plastic-free alternatives. Supporting these businesses helps drive demand for environmentally-friendly products. 

You can rest assured when you’re shopping at fulFILLed Lifestyle Co. you’ll only find brands that are creating sustainable products and committed to sustainable practices. To learn more about our values here.

7. Educate Yourself and Others

Utilize resources like the Plastic Free July website, which offers a comprehensive library of information, solutions and alternatives. Stay informed and share your knowledge with friends and family to spread the impact.

8. Advocate for Change

Use your voice to advocate for larger systemic changes. Support policies and initiatives aimed at reducing plastic production and waste. Encourage businesses to adopt more sustainable practices.

fulFILLed Lifestyle Co.’s Commitment to Plastic Free 

At fulFILLed Lifestyle Co., we believe that collective action can lead to significant change. Here’s how we are helping people “choose to refuse” single-use plastic:

1. Educational Workshops and Resources: We offer workshops and provide resources to educate our community about the impact of plastic pollution and the importance of reducing plastic use. Our goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to make sustainable choices.
2. Plastic-Free Product Alternatives: We offer over 200 eco-friendly, reusable products to replace common single-use plastics. From stainless steel straws to beeswax food wraps, our store is stocked with items that help reduce plastic waste.
3. Prioritizing Closed-Loop Business Partners: Our closed-loop system is an integral part of fulFILLed Lifestyle Co.’s mission to eliminate plastic waste. Our cleaning products come in reusable drums that are sent back to the manufacturer to be sanitized and reused. In this way, we ensure that our operations produce minimal waste and have a minimal environmental impact.

At fulFILLed Lifestyle Co., we are committed to leading by example and supporting our community in making meaningful changes. Let’s work together to create a plastic-free future.