{"id":22767,"date":"2024-07-03T16:02:19","date_gmt":"2024-07-03T16:02:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/?p=22767"},"modified":"2025-12-15T01:27:03","modified_gmt":"2025-12-15T01:27:03","slug":"july-2024-24-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/july-2024-24-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"24 Ways to Reduce Your Plastic Use in 2024"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"500\" data-src=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/July-2024-blog_24-tips.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22768 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/July-2024-blog_24-tips.png 1000w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/July-2024-blog_24-tips-300x150.png 300w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/July-2024-blog_24-tips-768x384.png 768w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/July-2024-blog_24-tips-200x100.png 200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1000px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1000\/500;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:21px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Look around! Wherever you are right now, plastic is likely in your sightline. But it doesn\u2019t have to be so! While going entirely plastic-free might feel impossible, adopting small changes adds up to make a real difference. Here are 24 tips for Plastic Free July 2024 to help you reduce plastic use and contribute to a healthier planet!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:17% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/resources\/eco-living-guide-how-to-quit-plastics-workbook\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"260\" height=\"335\" data-src=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/HowtoQuitPlasticsGuide_thumbnail_July2024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22885 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/HowtoQuitPlasticsGuide_thumbnail_July2024.png 260w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/HowtoQuitPlasticsGuide_thumbnail_July2024-233x300.png 233w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/HowtoQuitPlasticsGuide_thumbnail_July2024-97x125.png 97w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 260px) 100vw, 260px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 260px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 260\/335;\" \/><\/a><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">&nbsp;1. Perform a Waste Audit to Analyze Your Habits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The first step in tackling any challenge is to examine the problem! To start reducing your waste, take a look at what you&#8217;re purchasing, using, and throwing away. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use the Waste Audit worksheets in our free <a href=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/resources\/eco-living-guide-how-to-quit-plastics-workbook\/\">How to Quit Plastics Guide<\/a> to walk you through the process!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Carry a Reusable Water Bottle and Coffee Cups<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a well-known, but impacting step. Invest in a stainless steel or glass water bottle and steel travel mug. These simple swaps prevent countless plastic bottles and plastic-coated coffee cups from ending up in landfills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:auto 26%\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">&nbsp;3. Bring Your Own Shopping Bags<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep reusable shopping bags in your car, purse, or bag so that you always have them when heading to the store\u2014this can really go a long way in preventing plastics! For example, as large Colorado retail stores phased out plastic bags in the past year, more customers brought their own reusable bags, avoiding the use of over 1.5 BILLION plastic bags!<\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"967\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T110430.394-967x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22833 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T110430.394-967x1024.png 967w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T110430.394-283x300.png 283w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T110430.394-768x813.png 768w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T110430.394-1451x1536.png 1451w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T110430.394-118x125.png 118w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T110430.394.png 1889w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 967px) 100vw, 967px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 967px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 967\/1024;\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">&nbsp;4. Use Cloth Produce Bags<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of grabbing a plastic produce bag in the produce aisle, bring your own cloth bags\u2014they\u2019re reusable, washable, and perfect for fruits and veggies! Or place produce loose in your cart until you\u2019re home and able to store items in your own containers!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">&nbsp;5. Say No to Plastic Straws and Utensils<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don\u2019t need a straw, let your wait staffer know when you order your drink. When ordering take-out, opt out of plastic utensils, napkins, and condiments. Better yet\u2014make your own Zero Waste on-the-go kit using tips from our <a href=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/resources\/eco-living-guide-how-to-quit-plastics-workbook\/\">How to Quit Plastics Guide<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:20% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"843\" data-src=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104134.370-1024x843.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22814 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104134.370-1024x843.png 1024w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104134.370-300x247.png 300w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104134.370-768x632.png 768w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104134.370-1536x1265.png 1536w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104134.370-152x125.png 152w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104134.370.png 2000w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/843;\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Switch to Solid Soap and Shampoo Bars<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Eliminate plastic bottles from your bathroom by using solid soap and shampoo bars. They last longer than bottled versions, and come in minimal to no packaging.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">&nbsp;7. Make Your Own Cleaning Products<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/resources\/eco-living-guide-earth-friendly-cleaning-recipes\/\">DIY cleaning products<\/a> using natural ingredients (like vinegar, baking soda, lemon, and essential oils) are nontoxic, and can be made inexpensively and stored in glass or other reusable containers, reducing the need for new plastic bottles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Buy in the Bulk Aisle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Purchase items like grains, nuts, dried fruits, and candies in the bulk aisle of your local grocery store using your own reusable bags to avoid plastic packaging. Find more tips on Zero Waste shopping in our guide, <a href=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/resources\/eco-living-guide-how-to-quit-plastics-workbook\/\" data-type=\"resources\" data-id=\"13209\">How to Quit Plastics<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:auto 21%\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Opt Out of Junk Mail<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Avoid the plastic windows and other plastic materials (such as credit card promotions) that are mailed to you by following our <a href=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/eco-living\/refuse-and-reduce\/stop-junk-mail\/\">Stop Junk Mail<\/a> instructions! This is a great way to reduce unnecessary plastic production as well as deforestation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"843\" data-src=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104445.419-1024x843.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22815 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104445.419-1024x843.png 1024w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104445.419-300x247.png 300w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104445.419-768x632.png 768w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104445.419-1536x1265.png 1536w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104445.419-152x125.png 152w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T104445.419.png 2000w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/843;\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Opt for Reusable Food Wraps<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Replace plastic cling wrap with reusable beeswax or vegan wax wraps. They\u2019re great for covering bowls, wrapping snacks to go, and storing leftovers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. Pack Lunch in Reusable Containers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ditch single-use plastic bags and opt for stainless steel or glass containers, or reusable silicone bags to wrap up your lunch and snacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. Shop at Farmers&#8217; Markets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Buying fresh produce from farmers&#8217; markets or farm stands means less packaging and more opportunities to use your reusable bags!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:20% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"843\" data-src=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105027.553-1024x843.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22816 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105027.553-1024x843.png 1024w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105027.553-300x247.png 300w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105027.553-768x632.png 768w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105027.553-1536x1265.png 1536w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105027.553-152x125.png 152w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105027.553.png 2000w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/843;\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">13. DIY Snacks and Meals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Make your own homemade snacks and meals instead of buying pre-packaged ones to reduce plastic waste. For example, breads, crackers, and granola are typically sold in plastic packaging, but can readily be made at home!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">14. Use Cloth Napkins and Towels<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Switch to cloth napkins and towels instead of single-use paper ones and avoid the plastic packaging they\u2019re sold in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">15. Choose Plastic-Free Cosmetics<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Select cosmetics that come in glass or metal containers, or those sold in refillable packaging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:auto 15%\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">16. Avoid Microbeads<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose skincare products without microbeads, which are tiny plastic particles harmful to marine life. Check the label and avoid products that list \u201cpolyethylene\u201d as an ingredient.<\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"967\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105417.372-967x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22817 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105417.372-967x1024.png 967w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105417.372-283x300.png 283w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105417.372-768x813.png 768w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105417.372-1451x1536.png 1451w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105417.372-118x125.png 118w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105417.372.png 1889w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 967px) 100vw, 967px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 967px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 967\/1024;\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">17. Buy Secondhand<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Each new garment typically comes in its own plastic garment bag (known as &#8220;polybags&#8221; in the apparel industry) that is removed before the clothing item goes on the sales floor. Opt for secondhand clothing, as well as household items, to reduce the demand for new products and their plastic packaging.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">18. Support Plastic-Free Businesses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Visit a local Zero Waste store where you can purchase hundreds of items\u2014including food staples, shampoo, and cleaning supplies\u2014using your own reusable containers or with reusable\/refillable containers supplied! Locally, check out stores like Simply Bulk in Longmont and Nude Foods in Boulder and Denver.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">19. Ask for Reusables for Your To-Go Order&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Single-use disposable plastics aren\u2019t a necessary evil. Businesses like <a href=\"https:\/\/rworldreuse.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">r.World<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.deliverzero.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DeliverZero<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.planetozzi.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">OZZI<\/a> are helping restaurants, campuses, and community events go Zero Waste with reusable food and beverage to-go containers. Ask your favorite restaurant if they have a reusable to-go container option! If they don\u2019t, ask for your to-go order to be plated \u201cfor here\u201d and then put it in your own to-go container to avoid plastic and other single-use disposables.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">20. Repair and Reuse<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Mend broken items instead of replacing them or find creative ways to repurpose old items. Instead of purchasing a new electronic item, shop for reused\/refurbished instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:16% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"843\" data-src=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105837.446-1024x843.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22818 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105837.446-1024x843.png 1024w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105837.446-300x247.png 300w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105837.446-768x632.png 768w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105837.446-1536x1265.png 1536w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105837.446-152x125.png 152w, https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-2024-07-05T105837.446.png 2000w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/843;\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">21. Refuse Receipts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Many people don\u2019t know that some paper items, including receipts, are coated with plastic polymers and aren\u2019t recyclable. Choose digital receipts instead\u2014or no receipt at all!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">22. Consume with Care<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some plastics are more recyclable and less toxic than others. Avoid buying anything packaged in #3, #6, #7 plastic\u2014<a href=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/july-2024-problematic-plastics\/\">learn about the environmental and health risks of these plastics here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">23. Recycle What You Can (and Buy Recycled Content)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you do buy products packaged in plastic, be selective about what you are purchasing. Try to limit your purchases to products that really don\u2019t have other packaging options available, and when possible, buy plastics that are recyclable (<a href=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/guides-and-resources\/guides-for-boulder-county\/recycling-guide-boulder-county\/\">check with your local guidelines<\/a>) and\/or are made from recycled content!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">24. Support local, statewide, and national policies that address plastic<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Communities across the nation are taking a stand against the proliferation of plastics. Support efforts at the local, state, and national levels to reduce plastics, such as policies to put a fee on plastic bags, invest in reuse systems, and phase out toxic, unrecyclable plastics!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plastic Free July can be a powerful catalyst for examining our daily choices and their impact on our health and the environment. By implementing some of these 24 tips, you can see how much plastic you can refuse this July and beyond\u2014and inspire others to do the same! For extra credit, use our <a href=\"https:\/\/ecocycle.org\/resources\/eco-living-guide-how-to-quit-plastics-workbook\/\">How to Quit Plastics Guide<\/a> to help you transition toward a more sustainable, less plastic-dependent lifestyle!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<!-- AddThis Advanced Settings generic via filter on the_content --><!-- AddThis Share Buttons generic via filter on the_content -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Look around! Wherever you are right now, plastic is likely in your sightline. But it doesn\u2019t have to be so! While going entirely plastic-free might feel impossible, adopting small changes adds up to make a real difference. Here are 24 tips for Plastic Free July 2024 to help you reduce plastic use and contribute to [&hellip;]<!-- AddThis Advanced Settings generic via filter on get_the_excerpt --><!-- AddThis Share Buttons generic via filter on get_the_excerpt --><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":22768,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[151,276,275],"tags":[232,228,227,229,230,231],"class_list":["post-22767","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog-homepage","category-reducing-plastics","category-sustainable-living","tag-green","tag-plastic-free-july","tag-reduce-plastics","tag-reusable","tag-sustainable","tag-tips"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>24 Ways to Reduce Your Plastic Use in 2024 - Eco-Cycle<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"noindex, follow\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"24 Ways to Reduce Your Plastic Use in 2024 - 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