It’s Plastic Free July and Macedon Ranges mayor Jennifer Anderson wants you to get involved and play a part in reducing plastic pollution.
Cr Anderson, who is always conscious of her family’s use of single-use soft plastics, is this month trying to get her use down to 200 grams. To date, she’s recorded just 50 grams.
“I have really had to think about our purchases and what else we can do at home like making pasta instead of buying it packaged,” Cr Anderson said.
The mayor said many residents wanted to do the right thing for the planet, and “reducing single-use plastics in the first place is a good place to start”.
“If it does come into your house, look at responsible ways to dispose of it, such as council’s trial site at the transfer stations or the soft plastics pickups available at some supermarkets,” Cr Anderson said.
During the challenge, Cr Anderson has learnt that most quick and easy things to eat are usually pre-packaged in single-use plastic, so she’s had to find things in cardboard or paper packaging.
“It can be hard but if I have a list in my mind of places I know I can get something in a hurry with eco-friendly packing it makes it easier,” she said.
She said “every little bit helps” and encouraged residents to think about their daily habits, plan their shopping and meal preparation and to speak to local shops and suppliers about sustainable packaging options and solutions.
“It may cost a little more but it is worth supporting those businesses and the environment,” Cr Anderson said.
