Since its beginning in Western Australia in 2011, Plastic Free July has grown into a global movement across
190 countries. Its aim to encourage people over the world to reduce their use of plastics through the
choices they make each day.
The month of July has become a wake–up call to acknowledge firstly the overwhelming presence of plastics
in so many aspects of our daily lives and secondly, to choose to be part of the solution to the problem of
plastics.
Why this call? Ten years ago, In Laudato Si, the late Pope Francis said: The earth, our home is beginning to
look more and more like an immense pile of filth (21). Choosing to refuse single-use plastics in July and then
finding alternatives can reduce the amount of plastics that clog our waterways, oceans, streets and
landfills.
Many people making small changes can have great impact on our communities. All of us can cooperate as
instruments of God for the care of creation, each according to his or her own culture, experience,
involvements and talents. (Laudato Si 14)
Some of these changes include taking cloth bags when shopping; refusing to buy fruit/vegs wrapped in
plastic; avoiding takeaway mugs that have plastic linings; taking your own reusable mug; instead of using
chemical cleaning products use a home-made bi-carb and vinegar solution; use washable food covers.
These are just a few suggestions to reduce our use of single-use plastics.
Watch out for Styrofoam products because they are incredibly light and 95% air. Styrofoam never fully
decomposes; instead, it breaks apart into ever-smaller micro-particles that pollute the environment
permanently.
The Sisters of St Joseph have a Laudato Si Action Plan Team that responds to the concerns raised in Laudato
Si. Team members have written a reflection on Plastic Free July that addresses the proliferation of plastic
products. It is entitled, Be Plastic Free this July.