Recycling is mentioned everywhere – throughout towns and cities, on TV and online, everywhere yo can think of – but not enough is done to actually show people how easy it is to recycle. Did you know that plastic has become the number one product people use each day? Despite how damaging it is to the environment!

The good news is, there is a holiday (a whole month’s holiday!) to help emphasize why recycling is so important. The holiday we’re referring to is Plastic Free July – it’s dedicated to teaching people about the dangers of plastic and it challenges people to avoid plastic, and recycle more, for a month.

The Plastic Free July holiday began with a small number of people in Western Australia in 2011 – since then, the idea has grown into an independent, non-profit organization and an annual even in over 150 countries! The holiday was originally run by Earth Carers, a community that focuses on a wide range of environmental issues in the world and educates people about the consequences of hurting the environment. After becoming it’s own organization, the vision of Plastic Free July is all about a world without plastic waste.

So this month (as we’re currently in July!), is all about encouraging people to be more aware of their plastic use and creating a cleaner world as a result. The best way to participate in this holiday is to avoid all products that use plastic in them, throughout the whole month! The holiday also helps educate people about the different types of plastics out there and what happens in the recycling system when plastic is introduced. By reducing how much you use, you can make a small difference and help others do the same.

If you like the sound of this holiday, and want to get involved in recycling, begin by avoiding single-use plastic such as straws, water bottles, and plastic produce bags. Use more reusable products such as glass jars, metal utensils, and use metal tin lunch boxes and containers for storage. Avoid highly processed foods and begin using homemade recipes. You can even learn how to make your products like toothpaste, deodorant, and mouthwash. Why not share this holiday with your friends online by using the hashtag #plasticfreejuly and see if you can convince them to join you in your efforts to stop using plastic.