Whether you’re planning an international getaway or exploring dream destinations across the US, your travels present a unique opportunity to raise awareness about plastic pollution and choose sustainable alternatives that can help lessen the plight, from single-use water bottles to eco-friendlier transport.
To commemorate Plastic-Free July, if planning your holidays this summer or later in the year, this can be the time to play your part in reducing plastic waste and reflect on the harmful impact plastic has on our environment. Whether you avidly document your travels with impactful photos and engaging social media posts, or are an eco-friendly traveler keen to explore natural environments at home or abroad, you can inspire others to take action against the ongoing plastic crisis.
The guide to go plastic-free this July & all the year round!
A Global Crisis
Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. Every year, millions of tons of plastic waste find their way into our oceans, landfills, and ecosystems, causing irreparable harm to wildlife, marine life, and the overall health of our planet. The convenience of single-use plastics has led to a culture of overconsumption, with devastating consequences for the environment.
As you travel, you may encounter more closely the devastating effects of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems with an estimated 12.7 million tonnes of plastic entering the world’s oceans each year. More than 430 million tons of plastic are produced annually, of which two-thirds is wasted after just one use. If trends continue, plastic waste is expected to triple by 2060, with inevitable negative consequences for ecosystems and human health
Plastic pollution continues to pose a significant threat, particularly in the ocean. While ecosystems typically function on a cycle of renewal, where organic matter decomposes to nourish future generations, plastic disrupts this process due to its non-biodegradable nature. Meanwhile, plastic debris travels vast distances, carried by waves and currents, accumulating in seas and embedding itself in delicate coastal ecosystems.
Over time, these plastics break down into increasingly smaller particles, eventually becoming tinier than grains of sand, making their retrieval from the ocean an almost insurmountable challenge.
Cigarette butt pollution: an environmental and health crisis
Take Personal Responsibility
When it comes to your own travels, be aware of your personal plastic use and, if possible, use your experiences to highlight the dangers of plastic. Informing yourself of the potential impacts, such as microplastics in the marine food chain, that exist to wildlife and human health will heighten your understanding prior to your travels.
An effective way to raise awareness nowadays is via visual media channels. Where you witness the effects of plastic pollution, record evidence of plastic waste washing up on beaches or floating in seas, and shine a light on the issue by sharing content online.
Even the way in which you record and share can be an opportunity to make a difference and raise awareness. Given that plastic and e-waste are combined problems, this might start with the camera and equipment you intend to use while you’re away. For example, investing in high quality, used photography equipment from eco-friendly retailers, reduces your environmental impact while documenting the issue.
Similarly, there are other ways you can put plastic reduction at the forefront of your adventures while packing and planning your trip, including:
- Staying at Sustainable Accommodation: Research and book accommodations that prioritize environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
- Buying Local and Support Ethical Businesses: Seek out restaurants, shops, and tour operators that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices.
- Practicing Responsible Tourism: Follow the seven ‘Leave No Trace’ principles, respect local cultures, and minimize your impact on the environment.
- Packing Smart and Sustainably: Bring reusable items such as water bottles, shopping bags, utensils, and toiletry containers to reduce your reliance on single-use plastics.
58 Plastic Free July tips on how to reduce your waste like a pro!
Prioritize Sustainable Adventures
To make an impact, it’s essential to incorporate sustainable practices into every aspect of your travel experience, whether you’re exploring different states or opting to travel with friends abroad. Whether you’re hiking an unknown route or on an organized trip, there are ways you can explore natural settings in the countryside, mountains, and waterways without leaving behind plastic waste or ignoring the problems plastic pollutants cause in natural habitats.
As a traveler, you are in a unique position to share the plastic pollution you see wherever you are in the world, and highlight the plight for everyone to see. As you explore nature and wildlife it’s important to capture your finds from a safe distance, but a very valid exercise to document animals thriving in their natural setting. Emphasizing the importance of their precious natural habitats further underlines the need to preserve them and, in turn, why plastic waste remains incredibly dangerous to animals and ecosystems.
When you are out walking, or taking your dog on summer vacation, be conscious of the harm single use plastics may have if left behind, and cut down on their use. It’s similarly important to realize that your dog’s mess can be more harmful to nature, local flora, fauna, and livestock. Therefore, wherever you are, dispose of your own waste and that of others or pets responsibly, paying particular attention to plastic bottle tops and other small items that can harm wildlife.
Sustain the Momentum
Standout events and campaigns like Plastic Free July are fantastic ways to raise awareness and encourage people, of all ages, to be more aware of reducing plastic pollution on their travels. While being great catalysts for change, it’s important to sustain the momentum throughout the year whether you’re on holiday or a weekend away.
There are great ways for you to keep engaged and be active advocates against the ongoing plight of plastic. For example, coastal communities across the US organize volunteer beach clean-ups that raise public awareness and encourage people to take action. They invite locals and visitors traveling to beaches in the US and abroad to respect beaches everywhere, keeping shorelines tidy while adventuring deep into undiscovered coves.
When participating in beach or park cleanups take before and after photos to showcase the impact of collective action. By participating in such events, or by simply picking up litter as you walk, cycle and roam about you can help preserve the beauty of beaches and coastlines for future generations.
Choose Eco-Friendlier Transport
Another important aspect of sustainable travel is considering how we move from place to place. Our transport choices can greatly impact our carbon footprint and contribute to plastic pollution reduction. Opting for public transportation, bicycles, or electric mopeds and scooters is therefore another positive step.
If flying is necessary, consider carbon offset programs. Let your travels be a personal call to action to fight plastic pollution and preserve the planet. By putting sustainability at the heart of your adventures and sharing your experiences with others, you can contribute to a growing wave of awareness and change.
So, with Plastic Free July in mind, let your impactful images and engaging stories help others understand the urgency of the plastic crisis and motivate them to take action in their own lives. Your travels are more than just a personal escape–they can be a powerful tool for positive change in the ongoing battle against plastic pollution.
11 Gorgeous yet hugely plastic polluted beaches around the world
