Rockingham community encouraged to get behind Plastic Free July initiative

The City of Rockingham is urging locals to play their part in reducing plastic waste by supporting Plastic Free July 2022.

Plastic Free July is a global initiative where individuals, businesses and governments come together to take action to reduce plastic waste with the campaign aiming to end plastic pollution, reduce landfill waste and alleviate pressure on recycling.

The City is committed to reducing its environmental impact since council adopted its Single Use Plastics and Balloons Policy back in 2019.

Outlining controls that minimise the use of disposable plastics by requiring compostable or reusable alternatives the policy applies to all City operations, any events held in public places and all traders operating with a permit issued by the City.

Mayor Deb Hamblin said the intent of Plastic Free July aligned with the City’s aspiration of planning for future generations.

“Our stunning natural environment is a key part of why our City is known as the place where the coast comes to life, and incorporating new opportunities that support the responsible and sustainable disposal of waste are crucial to protecting what we have,” she said.

“As momentum continues to gather around the damaging impact that plastic waste has on our health and the environment, the City is encouraging the community to get behind Plastic Free July and make important lifestyle changes that reduce the use of plastic at home and in the workplace.”

During July, each of the City’s libraries have created unique Plastic Free July displays which incorporate plastic waste collected from community beach cleans, alternative reusable products and books related to plastic free living.

The City also has a Turn the Tide on Plastic Guideline that provides in-depth information on environmentally friendly alternatives to plastic.

To check out the guideline, head to the the City of Rockingham website, or to find out more about Plastic Free July click here.