Plastic-Free July a success

Following a huge amount of effort and planning, Plastic-Free July has been deemed a success.

With plenty of education workshops and other initiatives in the mix, we reached approximately 450 children through schools, Youthtown, and holiday programmes. This was a combination of plastic education, games, litter pick-ups and beeswax wrap workshops.

It wasn't all about the younger generation though, as we hosted three spin-the-wheel giveaways throughout the district, one each in Turangi, Mangakino, and Taupo, where we gave away around 300 plastic-free items, including reusable shopping bags and bamboo toothbrushes. Towncentre Taupo donated items and some local businesses donated gift vouchers. Craft lovers were catered to, enjoying the opportunity to partner with Boomerang Bags in a bag-making sewing bee which proved very popular.

Another 60 or so people attended a free workshop Council hosted to learn about plastic-free alternatives you can use in your home. Everyone got to make and take home their own beeswax food wrap, which is a natural, biodegradable food wrap option used instead of cling wrap.

One easy way to kick-start change is to make a plastic-free pack by filling a reusable shopping bag or kete with alternatives such as Tupperware containers, cutlery, reusable drink bottles, produce bags, or a stainless steel straw if you have one. Keep these handy when you're out and about so you won't find yourself caught needing plastic.

Thanks to everyone who came together to make our events happen and raise awareness, and remember that reducing your plastic footprint can happen year-round, not just July!

August 9 2018