Each July, millions of people in more than 190 countries take on a personal challenge that’s both simple and powerful: refuse single-use plastics. What began as a small campaign in Australia in 2011 has grown into a global movement that continues to inspire people to reduce plastic waste in their daily lives.

At The Green Corner Store, we want to increase awareness about plastic pollution here in our Central Arkansas community – and help make plastic-free living feel more approachable for everyone.

Plastic-Free Living Isn’t All-or-Nothing

Living plastic-free might sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. You don’t need to throw away every plastic item you own – just start by reducing your reliance on single-use plastics. Choose one single-use plastic item to eliminate this month, like water bottles, straws, or takeout utensils. When you focus on one small habit at a time, it’s easier to stick with and often leads to lasting change.

And let’s be honest: remembering your reusable grocery bags isn’t always easy! And if you don’t have it, you can’t refuse the plastic bags. We’ve all had that moment at the checkout when we realize they’re still in the car. But each time you remember – whether it’s for groceries, gifts, or clothes – you’re reinforcing a good habit that adds up.

Why It Matters & What You Can Do

We’ve all seen the heartbreaking images: sea turtles tangled in plastic bags, birds feeding plastic bits to their chicks, and beaches littered with waste. But the problem goes far beyond what we see on the surface.

Less than 10% of plastic waste is ever recycled, according to the Global Plastics Outlook from OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development). The rest ends up in landfills, incinerators, or polluting our environment.

Plastic also doesn’t biodegrade—it breaks down into microplastics that contaminate our soil, waterways, and even our bodies. Recent studies have found microplastics in human blood, lungs, and placentas, raising new concerns about long-term health impacts.

The good news? Much of this plastic is avoidable.

By choosing reusable options and refilling instead of repurchasing plastic-packaged goods, we can significantly cut back on waste. Reusable systems can reduce packaging-related emissions significantly.

That’s why we’re proud to offer ever-expanding choices at our refill station in our store.  We have options for everyday basics such as dish soap and laundry detergent to body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. Bring your own container. Refill whatever amount you need, skip the plastic packaging, and shop with intention.

Easy Plastic-Free Swaps You Can Make

Start with one area of your life and go from there—every small swap creates ripple effects. Here are a few of our favorite beginner-friendly ideas:

IN THE KITCHEN

Swap plastic wrap for Bee’s Wrap beeswax wraps or reusable silicone bags.

 

Store bulk pantry items in glass Mason Jars or refillable containers. Bring your own containers to fill up hand dish soap.

Re-Cap offers innovative lids and accessories for mason jars, transforming them into versatile, reusable containers perfect for reducing single-use plastic waste.

Use mesh or cotton produce bags instead of plastic ones.

EcoBags is committed to creating durable, reusable bags made from sustainable materials, offering an eco-friendly alternative to disposable plastic bags.

Chico Bags designs compact, reusable bags that are easy to carry and perfect for everyday use, helping reduce the reliance on single-use plastics.

ON THE GO

  • Carry a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, and utensils.
  • Keep a cloth napkin and bamboo cutlery in your bag or car.
  • Skip plastic straws and plastic lids when you can.
  • Choose snacks in minimal or compostable packaging.

IN THE BATHROOM

  • Switch to bar soaps, shampoo bars, and conditioner bars – they last longer and eliminate the bottle.
  • Refill your hand soap, body wash, facial cleanser, and even toothpaste at our in-store refill station.
  • Look for toothpaste tablets and floss packaged in glass or cardboard.

FOR HOME CLEANING

  • Refill your all-purpose cleaner, dish soap, and laundry detergent with us- our refill station offers non-toxic, plant-based options.
  • Choose compostable cloths or brushes instead of plastic sponges.
  • Avoid spray bottles that can’t be reused – refill instead!

Final Thoughts

Plastic Free July is not about achieving perfection but about making conscious, incremental changes. Each plastic bag you refuse, every refill you make, and each conversation you share contributes to a cleaner, healthier planet. You’re part of a larger community – 74% of Americans say they are eager to protect the environment and want to support brands with sustainable practices.

Companies like EcoBags and Chico Bags exemplify this commitment by collaborating with nonprofits to reduce plastic waste and promote reusable solutions. By choosing such brands and adopting small, sustainable habits, you can make a significant impact.

Whether you’re swapping out your dish soap bottle, trying a shampoo bar, or learning to shop with less waste, every step counts. Together, let’s embrace the journey toward a more sustainable future, one choice at a time.

Plastic Free July isn’t about being perfect – it’s about making better choices, one at a time. Every plastic bag refused, every refill made, and every conversation shared moves us closer to a cleaner, healthier future.