Recycle Utah invites Summit County to take the Plastic Free July challenge

Plastic Free July encourages people to find ways to reduce single-use plastics. Photo: Tanvi sharma // UnSplash

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — Recycle Utah and Park City refill shop fulFILLed are encouraging Summit County residents to cut back on single-use plastics this month through Plastic Free July, a global campaign promoting simple, everyday actions to reduce plastic waste.

Plastic Free July is an international movement that encourages people to make small, sustainable changes to help reduce plastic pollution.

Rather than asking participants to eliminate single-use plastics entirely, the local campaign focuses on practical swaps that can become long-term habits.

Participants might swap disposable zip-top bags for reusable silicone storage bags on picnics, bring reusable produce bags to the farmers market, choose reusable or compostable utensils for barbecues, or opt for sunscreen packaged in aluminum or other low-waste materials instead of plastic containers.

Throughout July, residents can pick up a Plastic Free July bingo card at Recycle Utah. Completing the challenges earns participants 20% off purchases at fulFILLed for the remainder of the month.

Organizers also encourage residents to make a Plastic Free July pledge with friends, family, classmates or coworkers to support one another in adopting new habits throughout the month.

As part of the campaign, Recycle Utah will host a free screening of The Plastic Detox followed by a community discussion about reducing plastic waste locally. The event will take place Tuesday, July 22, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Jim Santy Auditorium.