July Is Plastic-Free Month

Plastic products are a part of many people's daily lives, but single-use plastic has increasingly become a threat to environmental sustainability. According to Oxford University, most Americans use and discard 5 pounds of plastic each week, which has led to increased pollution and increased trash in landfills. Through the Zero Waste Plan, the City aims to reduce materials sent to the landfill by 80% in 2032 and aspires to 90% reduction by 2040. One of the ways the City plans to accomplish these goals is by inspiring Westerville community members to reduce their personal waste.

This July, the City invites all residents to strive to eliminate or reduce use of single-use plastics. Check out the following tips to help reduce your personal plastic use this month, and beyond:

• Use reusable straws at home and in public.
• Carry a reusable water bottle.
• Purchase vegetables without or with minimal packaging.
• Keep reusable shopping bags handy to use at the grocery store or while making other purchases.
• Search for a local refillery, which sells household and personal care items in bulk.

To learn more about the City's Zero Waste plan, visit www.westerville.org/zerowaste.