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We all need to make an effort.

Plastic Free July is a global movement that helps millions of people be part of the solution to plastic pollution – so we can all have cleaner streets, oceans, and beautiful communities. So this July, whatever other goals or projects you got going on, I think trying to commit to using less plastic is one we all should have. No more than ever. The effects of climate changes are being felt across the globe – and what we have seen so far might, unfortunately, be just the tip of a very scary iceberg. The good news is that the awareness of sustainability is growing by the day, and finally, people around the world, of all ages, are beginning to take action. And even at home, there are things every single one of us can do in order to reduce our footprint and be kinder to our planet – and its future inhabitants.

And so let's try. We all know we need to use less plastic – and we need to start somewhere. I have recently picked up these five clever buys, and they have definitively made it easier for me to use more sustainable things than plastic:

1. Reusable produce bags You know those single-use plastic bags that you use every time you get vegetables or croissants at Tesco or Lidl? Well, they take thousands of years to break down in nature – and if so if you purchase just one thing this month, make it these super-clever reusable produce bags – which are also perfect to bring with you to the farmer's market, if you, like me, love hitting up your local one come the weekend. I ordered mine for less than €15 on Amazon, and have been using them pretty much daily ever since.

2. A sturdy grocery bag If you still have not invested in a great bring-everywhere grocery bag, now is the time. Keep it in your car, and make a promise to yourself to not opt for a plastic bag when packing your shopping ever again. Tip: If you find a bag you actually like the look of, and that is comfortable to carry, chances are much higher you'll actually use it. I love these gorgeous market bags from US brand Apolis and adore the fact that you can customize the text on them. But take a look at Amazon too, they have some great options.

3. A reusable water bottle Plastic water bottles are not only bad for the environment, but they are also terrible for your health. Bottled water companies increasingly use BPA-free plastic, but laced into plastic bottles are other chemicals that can seep out if bottles are exposed to heat or sit around for a long time. Some of these chemicals are possible endocrine disruptors. No one knows for sure what the health outcomes are. Do you really want your body to undergo that experiment? Instead, I always have my trusted glass Bkr bottle in my bag (I got a few in different colours), and can refill this with water throughout the day.

4. Reusable (and portable) silicone straws If you are forever drinking your morning smoothie on the go, or like sipping your iced latte out of a straw, well then you need to treat yourself to a packet of these colourful and environmental silicone straws ASAP. Amazon has tons of different options, and these ones come with their very own handy brush, so you can make sure your straws are properly clean on the inside, as well as an on-the-go holder, so you can always bring your own straw with you.

5. Reusable coffee cup If you, like me, can't even bear the thought of making it through the morning without your morning (oat-milk) latte, then I am sure you have already made the switch to a reusable coffee cup. If not, now is the time. There are tons of great ones to choose from, and many coffee shops not only sell these (I love the ones from Dublin-based coffee house Hatch) but will also offer you a discount on your coffee if you bring in your own cup.

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Plastic Free July: 5 clever buys to help you ditch single-use plastic forever

We all need to make an effort.