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Welcome to the Plastic Free Challenge

As zoos and aquariums, we are keenly aware of the impact humans are having on wildlife every day. Each year, an estimated one million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals and sea turtles die from plastics in their environment. Recent research also suggests that terrestrial species are negatively affected as more microplastics make their way into their ecosystems. Through our collective effort, Plastic Free July gives us the ability to make a difference for these species most impacted by our plastic pollution.

We challenge you to make small changes to reduce single-use plastics and stick with it for one month. Plastic Free July aims to raise awareness of the problems with single-use disposable plastic and challenges people to do something about it. You pick your challenges, ask your co-workers to come along for the ride, and set a goal that makes a difference for you, your community and our planet.

Did you know that common wisdom says it takes three weeks to change a habit? If you can stick with a new behavior for 21 days in a row, you’re a lot more likely to keep it up forever. We want you to share your progress and earn points for taking action for 31 days. The combination of collective inspiration, camaraderie and friendly competition makes change a little easier — and a lot more fun.

Explore the Challenges

Discover Change, Together.

We believe the solution to the planet’s biggest challenges lies in the power of collective action.

The Plastic Free July Challenge originated with a non-profit group in Australia and has now been adapted for the zoo and aquarium community. Your organization takes incredible steps to address plastic consumption and has signed on to make positive change by joining our Plastic Free Challenge! As conservation and sustainability focused organizations, zoos and aquariums know how imperative healthy ecosystems and habitats are for future generations. Single-use plastics are a major threat to all species, including ourselves—let’s continue to tackle the problem together to see our collective impact.

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