Are you ready for July without plastic?

Plastic pollution comes from the beginning of environmental problems today, we encounter as an urgent and global problem. Millions of tons of plastic waste, pollut our oceans, soils and even our air. Individuals, communities and institutions take various steps to reduce this pollution. In this context, the movement of the Plastic-Free July is activated. So, what is Plastic Free July and why is it so important? Let's discover together.

Why is plastic pollution important?]
Plastic pollution contains serious dangers in terms of environmental and health. Plastic wastes are dissolved in nature, and hundreds of years can be permanent. This situation leads to disruption of ecosystems, damage of marine life and even the danger of human health. Here are some stunning figures of plastic pollution:[

2024 year forecasts: In 2024, the amount of plastic waste produced worldwide will be 220 million tons.
The waste managed:] In 2024, about 70 million tons of plastic will be mixed into nature. [
Increased plastic waste: Plastic waste increased by 7.11 percent since 2021.
Plastic vaccination day: It is estimated that the Plastic Vaccine Day will take place in September 5 for 2024. This date refers to the day when the amount of plastic waste produced worldwide has exceeded the management capacity.

What is Plastic Free July?]
] Plastic Free July was born as an environmentally initiative based in Australia. This movement encourages individuals and communities to reject disposable plastics throughout July. The purpose of reducing plastic waste and developing persistent habits in this process. Plastic-free July inspired more than 100 million participants in more than 190 countries, and has helped prevent over 10 billion kilograms of domestic waste.
]
What can we do in the individual?]
Small steps we can take to reduce plastic pollution as individuals can create great differences. Here are some suggestions...
]
Home reusable water bottles: Instead of plastic water bottles, use reusable water bottles. [
Home Coffee mugs: Carry your own coffee cup or sit in cafes and drink with porcelain cups.
Home Reusable containers: Instead of plastic stretch film, use reusable containers or wax coated fabrics.
Home Cloth bags: Use cloth bags instead of plastic bags in shopping.
Home Shampoo and soap bars: Instead of liquid shampoos in plastic bottles, prefer solid shampoo and soap bars. [email protected]
What can I do?]
Institutions and businesses can play a big role in reducing plastic pollution. Here are some strategies...
]
Home Plastic product alternatives: Providing biodegradable or reusable alternatives instead of plastic products.
Home Recycling programs: By launching effective recycling programs, ensure that plastic wastes are properly processed.
Home Environmental awareness trainings: Organize training programs to create environmental awareness for employees and customers.
Home Zero waste targets: By determining zero waste targets, improve policies that minimize plastic usage.
Home Comprehensive reporting: Reporting plastic waste management and reduction efforts transparently and providing accountability on this.

Small steps create big difference
[
The United Nations Plastic Agreement negotiations to be held in 2024 offer a great opportunity to develop global policies in the fight against plastic pollution. These negotiations are critical to the realization of strong policies since they are prepared in the light of scientific data. The reduction of plastic pollution and the protection of the environment should be supported by individual efforts, as well as corporate and government policies. In this context, scientists and environmental activists defend that plastic production should be reduced in the source. Plastic Free July is a movement that promotes us to take small but effective steps in the fight against plastic pollution by increasing the sensitivity of all to the environment. By reducing your use of plastic in July, you can join this movement and contribute to a clean, healthier world. Remember, small steps create great differences.