Take a step towards a plastic-free world

As Plastic Free July takes off, it’s the ideal time to fine-tune habits and curb the plastic flood to our landfills and environment.

Together, we can make a significant impact: 

Plastic Free July participants have avoided a whopping 1.4 billion kilograms of plastic waste in the last five years. That’s 1.4 billion kilograms less in our oceans, parks, and posing a threat to wildlife. 

This monumental change was made possible by simple new habits like:

• Opting for plastic-free produce at the supermarket
• Swapping liquid body wash for soap bars
• Choosing natural fibre clothing.

You can choose the new habits that work for you, big or small, when you sign up for the Plastic Free July challenge online.

Plastic free gardening

It can be challenging but there are simple ways to reduce plastic in the garden. 

By thinking outside the box (especially if it’s plastic packaging), we can definitely minimise the potential for contaminated soil and food gardens by opting for alternatives. 

Check out Anne Gibson, The Micro Gardeners article '17 simple ways to reduce plastic in the garden'.

Make your family outings environment-friendly

A super easy habit comes from community group and Sunshine Coast Biosphere Community Award nominee,  Ten Little Pieces, encouraging people to pick up ten pieces of litter anytime, anywhere, and getting kids involved in the joy of environmental care.

Take the mystery out of recycling

Confused by the numbers in the recycling triangle? Not sure how to dispose of used batteries? With the RecycleMate app, you can simply point your phone camera at an item and get the answer. 

It also reminds you to keep batteries out of household bins – they cause fires in rubbish trucks.

pot of old batteries ready for recycling

Instead, store your batteries in a jar and drop them off at a free point at your local supermarket or other location listed in the RecycleMate app or on Council’s website.

Search for “RecycleMate” on the Apple app store, Google Play, or visit Council’s Recycle Right webpage.

Join the Love Food Hate Waste Challenge

Reducing food waste at home can save money and reduce landfill greenhouse gases.

Australian households spend an estimated $2000 to $2500 annually on groceries that go to waste.

messy overstocked fridge

Council’s Love Food Hate Waste three-week challenge starting July 15 gives you resources, waste-busting recipes and tips to keep good food out of the bin.

frozen sieved tomato cubes stored in an ice cube tray