Plastic water bottles, straws and grocery bags are just a few of the plastic items that have become part of our daily lives. Sadly, too often these items wind up as litter along roadways, in our landfill or polluting our beloved local streams, rivers and the oceans we visit threatening wildlife, natural habitats and even our food supply and individual health.
Locally, plastics account for approximately 17% of Franklin County’s landfill material. Despite growing participation in our local recycling program, the equivalent of 380 pounds of plastics is still sent to the landfill every year.
That’s why SWACO is pleased to again support the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium’s efforts during Plastic Free July—a global movement that helps people become part of the solution to plastic pollution—and we’re inviting you to join us too. Take the Plastic Free EcoChallenge and commit to reducing and refusing single-use plastics during the month of July.
Even small changes can make a big difference to our ecosystems, protect wildlife and habitats, and our planet. Think you can’t do it? Give these easy lifestyle changes a try and see just how easy reducing plastic use can be!
- Avoid using single-use plastics such as straws and cutlery. Consider reusable alternatives like stainless steel and bamboo, and even foldable reusable straws that you can easily keep in your bag or pocket.
- Stop buying water bottles! Invest in reusable bottles for the family and environmentally friendly options like bottles made from stainless steel, glass or safe aluminum.
- Carry summer snacks for the park or pool in glass or steel containers.
- Use cloth reusable bags when shopping.
- Avoid disposable containers. Use glass containers to store and freeze food for longer. You can find more information about reducing food waste AND saving money at Save More Than Food - Central Ohio Food Waste Initiative.
- Join our webinar. On Monday, July 17 at 1:00 pm, SWACO and the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium invite you to attend a free, virtual webinar about going plastic free. Representatives will review the Plastic Free EcoChallenge and answer your questions. Register here.
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