PLASTIC-free shopping is on the rise as the topic of climate change becomes more important than ever. Plastic-Free July is a global initiative by the Plastic-Free Foundation to help solve plastic pollution and encourage people to refuse single-use plastic. The campaign is now in its tenth year but founder Rebecca Prince-Ruiz did not expect its success. Rebecca said: “In 2011 when I first tried to avoid single-use plastic for a month, I never imagined how Plastic-Free July would grow. “It’s amazing to reflect on the rapid worldwide uptake of the challenge, with people making positive changes in their own lives and in their communities, schools, and workplaces.
Since then, the number of plastic free shops across Essex has risen. According to Love Essex, there are now more than 25 across the county. Founder of Colcheco in Colchester, Rachel Smith said plastic pollution is the “primary problem we face” but the solution is simple. Rachel said: “We absolutely hate the fact that so many containers and bottles are made out of plastic with the intention of being discarded after the product has been used knowing that it won’t break down and will become a permanent pollutant in our environment. “It seems ridiculous. “We, as a shop, believe there are so many alternatives for people, such as refilling containers that are sitting in the cupboard, trying bars instead of liquids and using non-plastic shopping bags.We love being able to help people make these positive changes.
From there the campaign evolved and now everyone in the village is doing their bit to help. Danielle said: “I am delighted that Feering has become the first area in Essex to gain recognition. Of course, Feering is not yet completely plastic-free. “This achievement is the first step in our ongoing journey, and I have been truly inspired by the support the community has shown towards that aim. Laura Atkinson (left) and Karen Welsh of Feering Community Centre “It just goes to show how every one of us can really make a difference to reduce our impact on the environment and I hope that our work will encourage other communities to do the same”.