Plastic offers convenience but at a hefty cost to the planet.
It requires fossil fuels to make, and instead of slowing, our production and use is actually growing. Plastics could account for 20 percent of oil consumption by 2050, according to The Center for International Environmental Law.
And only 9% of the plastic that has been produced has been properly recycled.
The rest ends up staying in our landfills and oceans for centuries and emit greenhouse gases as it breaks down.
Single use plastic is a big culprit, which some countries have targeted by banning various single use plastic items.
Thinking of finding more alternatives to plastic in your life?
The Plastic Free July movement, which began in Australia over a decade ago and has global support, offers resources to help make a change at home, at work and in the community.
Commit to the challenge, take the quiz and learn what you can do for this month and beyond.