Plastic Free July is a global movement that encourages millions of people every year to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics and rethink how they consume and dispose of plastic. Whether you commit to avoiding plastic straws, bringing reusable bags to the shop, or cutting down on packaging waste, every action helps protect our oceans, wildlife, and communities from plastic pollution.
The good news? You’re not alone. From global giants to your local supermarket, many companies are making real strides towards sustainability. Here’s how some of the biggest names are tackling plastic waste — and how you can join in to make a difference this Plastic Free Month.
Big Names Making Big Changes
Müller is working hard to make all of its packaging 100% recyclable, reusable, or compostable by 2025. They’re also aiming to include 30% recycled content in their plastic packaging. Their approach focuses on closing the loop, turning used plastic back into food-grade materials. As members of the UK Plastic Pact and other sustainability groups, Müller is pushing the entire dairy industry towards greener practices.
Morrisons, including the Market Drayton store, has introduced plastic-free aisles for fruit and vegetables, encouraging shoppers to buy loose produce or use recyclable paper bags. They’ve replaced plastic “bags for life” with paper alternatives made in Wales and committed to reducing plastic packaging across own-brand products by 50% by 2025. Plus, Morrisons is piloting refill stations in some stores to cut packaging waste even further.
Tesco employs a “4Rs” approach: Remove, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. They’re removing unnecessary plastics, reducing packaging where possible, trialling reusable packaging through partnerships like Loop, and ensuring all remaining packaging is recyclable. Tesco balances these efforts carefully with food safety, but continues to innovate — replacing plastic forks with wooden ones and removing plastic from multi-packs.
Costa Coffee is also part of this sustainable journey, working on making cups and packaging more eco-friendly, helping reduce single-use plastics in their stores.
How You Can Reduce Plastic Use
While big brands work on systemic change, individual choices really add up. Here are some simple steps to reduce your plastic footprint during Plastic Free Month — and beyond:
-
Choose loose produce: Skip pre-packaged fruits and vegetables and bring your own reusable produce bags.
-
Bring your own bags: Use sturdy, reusable bags instead of single-use plastic ones.
-
Refill where possible: Look for refill stations for household products like detergents and shampoos to avoid buying new plastic bottles.
-
Say no to plastic straws and cutlery: Carry your own reusable cutlery set and stainless steel or bamboo straws.
-
Buy products with minimal packaging: Look for brands and products with less plastic or packaging made from recycled or compostable materials.
-
Recycle carefully: Follow your local recycling guidelines to make sure plastics get properly recycled.
-
Support local shops: Many smaller stores offer plastic-free options and bulk-buying to reduce waste.
-
Switch to alternatives: Try beeswax wraps instead of cling film, bamboo toothbrushes instead of plastic ones, and refillable water bottles.
Join the Movement
Plastic Free July is more than just a month — it’s a chance to start new habits that protect the planet year-round. You can find support, ideas, and inspiration at PlasticFreeJuly.org, including challenges, tips, and stories from people around the world making a difference.
By shopping thoughtfully, reducing waste, and supporting supermarkets like Müller, Morrisons, Tesco, and Costa on their sustainability journey, you can make a meaningful impact. Every small step counts in creating a cleaner, greener future
