Take the pledge this Plastic Free July
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WCC media release: Monday 11 July 2022
The first 80 Wollongong residents who make a pledge to stop using single-use plastic produce bags will be recognised for their commitment with a free pack of reusable produce bags as part of Council’s support for Plastic Free July.
The promotion is part of Council’s goal to reduce our city’s impact on our environment and work towards a more sustainable future for everyone.
We’re also offering free beeswax wrap making workshops in a bid to encourage our community to do their bit in the fight against single-use plastics.
“Plastic Free July is a global movement that encourages us all to be part of the solution and rethink our own shopping and purchasing behaviours. Reducing our reliance on plastics will mean less pollution, so cleaner streets, oceans and communities,” Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.
“Single-use plastics such as plastic bags, cutlery, plates, bottles, straws and cups fill up our landfill and can cause significant impacts on our natural marine environment.
“The good news is that there are so many great reusable options to all of these products. This month we’re encouraging you to start making small changes to improve your own reliance on single-use plastics. Give a keep cup a go for your next morning coffee, trade plastic straws for metal or bamboo straws, or next time you go fruit and vegetable shopping bring a reusable produce bag.”
The NSW Government introduced a ban on lightweight plastic bags from 1 June 2022. Although this doesn’t include a ban on single-use plastic produce bags, we’re encouraging residents to opt for a reusable option when out shopping.
“While the produce bags that are flimsy and soft plastic at supermarkets and grocery stores are allowable, there is still the risk of these bags being used once and ending up in waste bin. So, we’re asking community members to change the way the shop and use a reusable produce bag,” Cr Bradbery said.
“This Plastic Free July, Wollongong City Council is encouraging residents to get ahead of the ban and rethink single-use plastic bags. Every action we take on an individual level is important, and we all have a role to play in reducing plastic waste. To change the world starts with a change of mind – let’s rethink our use of plastic”
Take the pledge
Submit your pledge to GT@wollongong.nsw.gov.au. The first 80 submissions from Wollongong Local Government residents will receive a free pack of reusable produce bags.
“I, (NAME) from (SUBURB), pledge to stop using single-use plastic produce bags and will use reusable produce bags from now on when doing my fruit and vegetable shopping.”
Learn how to make beeswax wraps
Say no more to plastic wrap! Beeswax wraps are a great way to preserve food without using single-use plastic. At this free workshop you’ll learn how to make your own beeswax wraps.
Wollongong Local Government residents will also receive a free beeswax wrap kit.
When and where
Saturday 16 July, 10am-12noon
Warrawong Library, 1/67-71 King Street
Monday 25 July,10am-12noon
Dapto Library, 93/93-109 Princes Highway
Book your free ticket on Eventbrite.
