Earth Day, 22 April 2024 - Planet vs. Plastics
Earth Day began in 1970, and since its inception in 1970, it has served as a global reminder of the urgent need for environmental awareness and climate action. This year, Earth Day brings an increasingly important challenge to the forefront with the theme: “Planet vs. Plastics.” The message is clear—our current use and projected use is leading to untenable levels of plastic pollution, and we must act now to safeguard our planet and future generations.
Plastics are not only an environmental issue; they present a threat to human health, which is only just starting to be investigated by scientists. As plastics break down into microplastics, they release toxic chemicals into our food and water sources and circulate through the air we breathe. Plastic production has grown to more than 380 million tons per year, surpassing the entire production of the 20th century with no signs of stopping.
The Planet vs. Plastics campaign has set an interim target of a 60% reduction in the production of plastics by 2040 with the ultimate goal being a plastic-free future.
So how can businesses and organisations get involved?
Existing legislation in the UK also supports removal of plastic usage with the UK Government’s goal to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste by 2042 and will drive forthcoming legislation. For example, prohibition on many single-use plastics, but there are other ways to get involved and be proactive.
Environmentally-minded businesses can do more than legislation, especially if they have an ISO 14001 system and are looking at forthcoming environmental trends and challenges ahead.
Some practical strategies to support Earth Days campaign (and to promote it!) are to:
1. Implement Recycling Programmes:
- Set up comprehensive recycling programs within your organisation. Encourage employees to participate actively.
- Partner with local schools to jointly conduct recycling initiatives.
2. Choose Eco-Friendly Packaging:
- Opt for sustainable packaging alternatives:
- Use biodegradable or compostable materials.
- Replace bubble wrap with eco-friendly honeycomb packing papers.
- Consider FSC-certified shipping labels.
- Prioritise suppliers that offer plastic-free packaging options
3. Reduce Single-Use Plastics:
- Eliminate or minimise plastics in your operations:
- Replace plastic cutlery with reusable alternatives.
- Offer refill stations for water bottles.
- Encourage employees to bring their own reusable containers for takeaway food.
- Choose glass or metal containers over plastic for storage and display.
4. Educate Employees and Customers:
- Raise awareness about plastic pollution:
- Conduct workshops or webinars on the impact of plastics.
- Share success stories and best practices within your organisation.
- Encourage employees to adopt plastic-free habits at work and home.
- Display educational posters or infographics in common areas.
5. Collaborate with Suppliers:
- Amend procurement policies to reduce suppliers’ plastic use:
- Request deliveries without plastic packaging.
- Encourage reusable packaging options, such as recycled cardboard boxes.
- Support suppliers committed to sustainable practices.
6. Engage in Clean-Up Events:
- Organise plastic-free clean-up drives:
- Participate in local beach or park clean-ups.
- Involve employees, customers, and community members.
- Document your efforts and share them on social media to inspire others
7. Advocate for Policy Changes:
- Join industry associations or environmental groups:
- Advocate for policies that limit plastic production.
- Support legislation banning specific single-use plastics.
- Collaborate with other businesses to amplify your impact
8. Promote Circular Economy Practices:
- Explore ways to reuse and recycle plastics within your organisation.
- Encourage product design that considers end-of-life plastic management.
- Support initiatives that promote a circular economy
If you want any help with understanding current and forthcoming environmental legislation or how to manage and minimise your waste then take a look at our Environmental Legislation Awareness course and our Waste Management and Waste Minimisation courses.
And if you want some websites to help you with your Earth Day plans try these
- Planet vs. Plastics: Global Theme for Earth Day 2024
- Earth Day 2024: All You Need to Know
- Fighting Plastic Pollution: 10 Earth Day Ideas in 2024
- Energy Saving Trust Blog: Learn practical ways to reduce plastic pollution and enhance waste management in the UK.
- National Literacy Trust: Access cross-curricular sessions for students, fostering awareness and action around Earth Day’s theme.
- NHS Plastic Vs Pollution Webinar: Join this online event specifically addressing plastic pollution and its impact on health.
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