Plastics are part of our everyday life and while earlier this year, Franklin County’s recycling program expanded to accept even more of them, plastics still account for approximately 17% of Franklin County’s landfill material which is equivalent to burying 380 million pounds of plastics every year. These items take hundreds of years to decompose and commonly, plastics like clamshell containers and grocery bags harmfully wind up as roadside litter where they create environmental concern.

SWACO and several Central Ohio communities are participating in Plastic Free July, a global movement that helps people become part of the solution to plastic pollution.

It’s also easy for residents to get involved too.

Sign up to participate in the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Plastic Free EcoChallenge (a challenge to reduce and refuse single-use plastics) and choose to make small changes that will collectively make a big difference in our community and environment.

Start small this summer with tips that can be easily applied to all of your summer plans!

• Avoid using single-use plastic straws. Consider sustainable alternatives like stainless steel and bamboo, and even foldable reusable straws that you can easily keep in your purse or pocket. 
• As you reach for refreshments this summer, choose environmentally friendly options, like reusable bottles made from stainless steel, glass or safe aluminum. 
• While grocery shopping for cookouts, avoid plastic-wrapped fruits and vegetables. Look for loose produce and use reusable produce bags to transport these items home. 
• Carry summer snacks for the park or pool in glass or steel containers. 

For more tips to use all year long, visit RecycleRight.org. SWACO's Recycle & Reuse Search Tool outlines a number of guidelines about what materials are recyclable and provides resources for additional information. Recycling right and reducing reliance on single-use plastic makes a difference for your family, your community and the environment.