A member of the Environmental Forum, Lori McCollum, says anyone can participate in the month-long challenge.
"It's easy to get rid or unnecessary plastic, or at least easier. Things like plastic bags, straws and plastic bottles; all you need is alternatives to that. You can have stainless steel cups or bottles, fabric bags, you can buy straws that are biodegradable or stainless steel."
McCollum emphasizes how you can limit your plastic consumption even when eating out.
"You can always say, 'I don't need a straw'', 'Please, wrap it in foil.' or 'Please, give it to me in a paper bag.' These are not huge asks and if stores keep getting these requests they are more likely to move in that direction."
She added the issue of plastic use doesn't just effect the environment, but also has social impacts on marginalized communities. 75 percent of the Quad Cities total litter is plastic and she encourages local residents to get involved in clean-ups as well as Plastic Free July.
For more information about the Plastic Free July challenge, go to www.plasticfreejuly.org.
