Reducing the use of plastics is one of the best ways to make your event more sustainable. Without intentional planning and waste management it is all too easy to generate a lot of plastic pollution from corporate events. So Huddle is joining in with Plastic Free July, a global movement born in 2011, to take action against single-use plastics and raise awareness about plastic free events. But what is Plastic Free July?
The Birth of a Movement
The movement was started by Rebecca Prince-Ruiz, a passionate environmentalist,from Western Australia. From humble beginnings, it has grown into a global phenomenon, with millions of participants across 190 countries. The Plastic Free Foundation, established in 2017, supports this initiative, driven by a shared vision of a world free of plastic waste and a commitment to sustainability.
The Impact
Since Plastic Free July began, participants have achieved great results in reducing a significant amount of plastic waste. The numbers speak for themselves:
- 10 billion kilograms of waste avoided, including 1.4 billion kilograms of plastic
- 223 million behaviour changes inspired
- 87% of participants adopt long-term sustainable habits
- An average reduction of 18 kilograms in waste and recycling per person per year
These achievements have earned Plastic Free July numerous awards, including UN SDG Action Awards and the Banksia Sustainability Awards, as well as the Order of Australia for its founder.
The Mission
Plastic Free July encourages individuals to refuse single-use plastics, promoting a culture of sustainability and encouraging the development of newer, greener supply chains. By providing resources, support, and inspiration, they empower people to make a difference without breaking the bank or disrupting their lives. Their mission is built on core values:
- Honesty and integrity
- Inclusivity
- Solution-focused
- Authenticity and collaboration
- Belief in the power of small changes
How can you get involved?
The simplest way to get involved is by doing. Hosting eco-friendly events, reducing plastic waste and especially focusing on single use plastics. If you want to get involved more generally, join the movement and make a difference. You can:
- Take the Plastic Free July challenge
- Share your story and inspire others
- Explore eco-friendly alternatives and sustainable swaps
- Support the Plastic Free Foundation and their initiatives
Plastic Free July is more than a movement – it’s a symbol of hope in the power of collective, voluntary action. By working together, we can create a world where plastic waste is a thing of the past. Embrace this vision, and join the millions who are already making a difference.
