PLASTIC FREE JULY

Plastic Free July is exactly what it sounds like, “a movement to try and encourage people to use less or no plastic in the month of July. It’s a really good way for people to get involved and think about what they’re buying and to hopefully make some permanent changes to reduce the amount of plastic in their day to day lives.” (greenecofriend.co.uk)

Does that sound a little familiar?

Three months ago, the Zion Hill Planet Preservers introduced the “Pitch the Plastic” challenge to our congregation as an effort to bring awareness to just how much single-use plastic we consume on a regular basis and that there are indeed, viable alternatives.

Plastic Free July comes halfway through the six-month campaign and serves as a reminder that we are not the only ones concerned with the devastation plastic inflicts (especially single-use plastic) upon our physical and environmental health. Plastic pollution is a global concern and corporations, governments and organizations around the world are working in earnest on large-scale levels to combat the crisis by enacting laws and taking actions to regulate, reduce and prevent plastic pollution. But small changes still add up to big differences and that’s where we as ordinary citizens but more importantly, as citizens of God’s kingdom, have an opportunity to make a positive impact. As Christians, we are obliged to reflect on nature and our human responsibility towards God’s creation. Our teaching has always addressed the obligation of Stewardship and understanding that obligation makes us accountable for managing the environment in a way that will sustain, protect and enhance God’s handiwork.

Let this national/international month-long observation of intentionally reducing the use of plastic be your point of realization and rejuvenation. If you have not made the commitment to the “Pitch the Plastic” challenge, then please do so today! If you have made the commitment, then take this time to see how well you’re doing and promise to continue the journey. To sign the pledge, look for the QR Code on our social media sites or call the church office for further information. Our prayer is that at the end of the six months, you will find that the eco-friendly lifestyle you chose during the challenge, suits you and the earth much better. n

Submitted by Planet Preservers

Remember:

n Try to avoid single-use plastic as much as possible!

n Stop buying bottles of water or other bottled drinks. Use reusable water containers n Avoid disposable coffee cups. Carry a reusable cup n Plastic bags are the worst. Use reusable cloth or mesh totes for loose fruits and vegetables and durable canvas shopping bags for groceries. n Refuse straws, plastic cutlery, plastic cups etc. Carry reusable metal or wood/paper straws, and request silverware and glass containers when eating out. Carry your own take-out container for leftovers.