Mosman goes Plastic Free for July

Mosman Council has initiated a “Plastic Free” July to highlight the environmental impacts of single-use plastics by encouraging businesses and residents to avoid using plastic bags, straws and take-away cups during the month.

Participants pledge to reduce use of the items that so frequently end up in waterways by switching to reusable bags, reusable coffee cups and 100% bio-degradable bamboo toothbrushes with volunteers handing out canvas bags in Bridgepoint and other busy shopping areas throughout the month.

“Mosman Council is working hard to reduce single-use plastic pollution in our community during Plastic-Free July and we are urging local businesses and residents to do the same,” Director Environment and Planning Craig Covich said.

“Businesses and consumers can make a real environmental impact and reduce plastic pollution by making some simple changes such as switching to reusable bags and coffee cups.”

Council’s Before and After School Care and Youth Centre are now recycling all disposable gloves and children and young people are taking part by collecting plastic waste during July to understand how much single-use plastic they use and the available alternatives.

Council has also worked with local businesses to create collaborative Plastic Free July pledges that encourage shop owners to rethink their use of plastic bags with several pharmacies and local childcare centres reducing their footprint by making small changes to reduce plastic pollution.

Check out the participating businesses and their pledges at mosman.nsw.gov.au/news or visit plasticfreejuly.org for more information. Businesses interested in joining the program can call 9978 4000.