Why Plastic Free July is important and how to take part

Plastic-free July began as a grassroots movement in Western Australia in 2011. Today it is a global phenomenon. In 2019 we will see millions of people "choosing to refuse" and pledging to be more aware of their plastic use. 

Closer to home, in Ireland, we generate an average of 61kgs of plastic per person every year.  Single-use plastic includes items such as cling-film, plastic cups, food packaging and cosmetic packaging. Plastic pollution adversely affects wildlife, waterways and oceans. Wildlife and marine animals can be harmed either by mechanical effects, such as entanglement in plastic objects, problems related to ingestion of plastic waste or through exposure to chemicals within plastics. 

As such, here at Millbee we recognise how important it is to cut out single-use plastic. Our Beeswax Wraps are essential for ditching single-use plastic. We are consciously creating a product that limits waste. Through using our wraps not only can you create a plastic-free household but also do your bit to reduce plastic pollution in our landfills and eco-systems.

Our Beeswax Wraps show our passion for reducing plastic use and pollution.

On top of this, we have comprised four simple steps you can also take in order to reduce your plastic consumption. 

Water! What type of bottle?

There are many great alternatives to plastic bottles and plastic cups. Try to keep an eye out for stainless steel reusable bottles. Not only do they reduce plastic usage but also keep your water cool. Another increasingly popular alternative is the glass bottle. Many retailers also sell soft and protective covers for your bottles to keep them safe during travel and use. 

Top tip: If you ever lose your reusable bottle cap our small-sized Millbee Beeswax Wrap can be used as a temporary watertight cover for your bottle!

Takeaway Coffee. Doing it guilt-free!

Many Coffee shops offer a discount when you bring your own portable cup. Similar to bottles, reusable coffee cups can come in glass and steel forms.

Some cheaper versions come in more durable plastic or have plastic lined inside. These versions of reusable cups are less desirable as hot drinks can cause chemicals from the plastic to leak into your drink. 

Any brands from Themos to Keepcup provide super convenient replacements for single-use coffee cups. Plus, they ensure the safest method of carrying your hot drinks. 

Top Tip: Cutting out cow’s milk also adds to the reduction of plastic bottle use. Asking for Soy or Oat milk in your coffee not only adds a healthy sweetness to your coffee but also reduces waste. Alternatives to Cow’s milk are often packaged in recyclable packaging.

Plastic Straws vs. Alternative Straws. 

An easy step to participating in Plastic Free July is to cut our use of plastic straws. Plastic straws have been proven to be dangerous for marine wildlife, particularly turtles. Plastic straws are often mistakenly ingested or get stuck in marine mammals respiratory systems. 

Requesting no straw while at a coffee shop or the bar are simple but great ways to do your bit for the environment. Moreover completely cutting them out of your shopping list, parties or barbecues are also super effective. 

In most homeware stores you can now also buy portable metal straws that are convenient for anyone who loves to have a straw with their iced coffee or evening cocktail. 

Top Tip: During your summer parties, or winter get-togethers our Beeswax Wrap can keep your glasses safe and covered if you have to tend to the oven, socialise with guests or need a break from one to many gins! 

Getting the groceries.

Most supermarkets offer 'Bags for life' that are helpful in reducing the consumption of single-use plastic bags. However, did you know that most supermarkets are happy for you to take their cardboard boxes to transport your groceries home? If you see an empty cardboard box, it’s yours to take!

'Bags for life', cloth bags and cardboard boxes are super for transport, however, there is still a large amount of plastic used in the wrapping of our food and drink. When it comes to the bakery, fruit and veg sections try using our Beeswax wraps to separate and contain your loaf of bread, courgettes, avocados and tomatoes. 

Top tip: Without packaging, it is hard to avoid damage and blemishes on your fruit, such as apples, pears and peaches. Millbee Beeswax Wraps can be used to cover and protect these items during transport and storage at home.

Find out more about Plastic Free July here.