Like many people, I’m on a mission to support Plastic Free July.

The aim of the global campaign is to make small changes, even just one, whether that be taking a reusable cup for your takeaway coffees, or avoiding cling film by using beeswax wraps instead.

Having a go at Plastic Free July wakes you up to how dependent we are on single use plastic.

There are a range of alternatives people swap out to avoid plastic, like yoghurt and smoothies in glass jars instead of plastic. I mean, when did you last buy meat from the supermarket that wasn’t placed on a tray and covered in cling film?

Blocks of cheese commonly come in vacuum packed plastic sleeves, and don’t even get me started on toothpaste.

So, throughout July I’m making it my mission to swap some of my grocery items for plastic free alternatives whenever there is an opportunity.

This week I’ve managed to swap my usual plastic pottle of yoghurt for a coconut-based brand, which comes in a glass jar. I’m curious to know how it tastes because being coconut based could be the deal breaker, but we will see.

Nothing beats a new discovery that is good for the environment, like toilet paper that is not wrapped in plastic. New World stocks at least two brands of the product, including this one by Earth Smart

I’m prepared to give it a go. That is what the month-long campaign is all about - trying new things, seeing if they suit you and, if so, turning them into a new habit.

Another discovery I made this week was family size packs of toilet paper wrapped in paper, not plastic.

I’m taking that as one of my top swaps as I navigate my way through Plastic Free July.

Wastebusters also has a range of events coming up to celebrate ways we can live with less plastic. 

Wastebusters top swap inspiration

• Reusable coffee cup
• Reusable drink bottle
• Shampoo bar
• Beeswax wraps
• Produce bags
• Reusable containers
• Cloth nappies

On July 24, from 1pm-3pm, there is a chemical free, waste free cleaning product workshop at the Central Otago Netball Pavilion. Email me at [email protected] to register, or sign up in store.