CHGT encourages businesses and residents to go plastic free in July

The Plastic Free Foundation established Plastic Free July in 2011 to encourage the reduction of plastic consumption through changing habits and building community.

To participate in the Plastic Free July challenge, all one must do is make a commitment to use less plastic during the month.

The Cleveland Heights Green Team (CHGT) invites Heights’ residents to join the challenge by giving up some of the single-use plastic items they use every day, such as plastic water bottles, coffee cups, and straws, and by bringing reusable bags on shopping trips.

Food and beverage establishments can participate by providing patrons single-use plastic straws, takeout plastic utensils, and plastic packaged condiments “by request only.” This simple change not only will decrease waste and pollution, but also improve business profit margins.

Participating restaurants will receive posters and signs designed to inform customers that their establishment is part of the Plastic Free July challenge and that single-use plastics will be provided only upon request.

Businesses and residents can amplify their impact by sharing their plastic-free stories via social media (#plasticfreejuly and #heightsplasticfreejuly) and by tagging #clevelandheightsgreenteam.

By making simple, positive changes in our lives, the CHGT believes we can make a profound difference, and influence friends, families, and the community.

With 326 million participants in 190 countries, Plastic Free July (www.plasticfreejuly.org) hopes to inspire individuals to continue positive habits beyond a single month.

For more details, and to request posters and signs, www.chgreenteam.org.