19 Plastic Free July Challenges & Ideas for Kids and Adults (2025)

Since the beginning of June, I’ve received quite a few questions about Plastic Free July challenges for 2025. Most of you were looking for inspiration for Plastic Free July activities preschool kids will love, while others asked for ideas for the home, or even for work. So, I decided to put together a full guide that covers, well, everything. I’ve also included the 31-Day Plastic-Free July Challenge I created last year! Feel free to pick one or two Plastic Free July tips to try, or even come up with your own challenge ideas. Remember: every small effort counts and brings us one step closer to a healthier planet.

Ideas for Plastic Free July Challenges in 2025

I’ve been taking part in Plastic Free July challenges since 2016, and let me tell you—it’s been a wild, rewarding ride. To keep things interesting and fun, every year I try to find or come up with new ideas to improve my low-waste lifestyle. Because let’s be real: zero-waste living doesn’t happen overnight. They take time, money, and energy.

But here’s the important part: no one says you need to swap everything all at once. Even small changes make a huge difference. In my very first year, all I had were a few simple swaps: plastic-free toothbrushes, reusable cloth bags, stainless steel water bottles, and beeswax wraps for snacks. It wasn’t perfect, but it was a start.

Fast forward to today, and about 80% of the items in my household are either zero or low waste—from cleaning products and skincare to kitchen essentials and beyond. The journey has been about learning, adapting, and celebrating progress, not perfection.

To keep things fresh, fun, and motivating, I make it a point to come up with new Plastic Free July ideas and challenge myself in different ways each summer. This helps me grow in my low-waste journey and avoid burnout. If you’re just starting, don’t stress about perfection. 

Plastic Free July is more than just a month-long challenge—it’s a movement that encourages everyone to rethink how we use plastic in our daily lives. Whether you’re an adult looking to make meaningful changes, a coworker wanting to inspire your team, or a parent teaching kids about sustainability, there’s a place for you in this challenge.

Related: Best Environmental Board Games for Kids

What is Plastic Free July?

Plastic Free July started in 2011 in Western Australia as a simple idea: what if we tried to avoid single-use plastics for one month? That small spark grew into a global movement, inspiring millions of people across the world to rethink their relationship with plastic.

The mission is clear and powerful: to build a world free of plastic waste. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about making small, practical changes that add up. Whether you’re swapping out plastic wrap for beeswax or saying no to plastic straws, every choice counts.

What began with a handful of participants reached over 174 million participants in 2024 in more than 190 countries. The result? Participants have reduced their household waste by 3.8 % and avoided 12.8 billion kilograms of waste over six years. Schools, businesses, and communities join in each July to take action. Currently, there are over 191 million #plasticfreejuly posts on TikTok. So, together, we’ve reduced thousands of tonnes of plastic waste, just by participating in Plastic Free July challenges and activities for kids and adults. 

And the ripple effect? Even bigger. When one person makes a change, they inspire others to follow.

Why is Plastic Free July Important in 2025?

Plastic has become everywhere in our daily lives over the past 50 years because it’s so useful and versatile. In 2023, the world produced about 415 million metric tons of plastic, double what we made at the start of the century. Most of this plastic is used for short-term things like packaging, which is expected to make up nearly 40% of all plastic waste by 2040, the biggest share of any category. For context, the 2024 Himalayan Cleanup gathered more than 121,000 pieces of waste. Microplastics were also found in Polar areas and the Amazon Basin. The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization reported that up to 11 million tons of plastic will be polluting the planet’s ocean floors by 2025.

Even though recycling efforts have increased, less than 10% of plastic waste is actually recycled worldwide. By 2040, that might rise to about 14%, but landfilling will still be the main way plastic is managed, with over 300 million metric tons dumped every year. Sadly, over 100 million metric tons of plastic waste each year will still be mismanaged, ending up polluting our environment.

Plastic pollution is everywhere—from the highest mountains to the deepest oceans—and even inside our drinking water and blood. In 2020 alone, around 20 million metric tons of plastic leaked into nature, a number that could skyrocket by 2040 if we don’t act. This pollution damages ecosystems and harms wildlife worldwide.

To fight this, experts say improving recycling and stopping plastic leaks are crucial. Cutting back on plastic production and demand, which is a hot topic in global talks, could reduce plastic pollution by 10% by 2040 compared to business as usual. The bottom line? Tackling plastic waste needs smart, ambitious action, and every little effort, like Plastic Free July challenges and ideas, counts.

How to Participate in Plastic-Free July Activities

Joining Plastic Free July is simple—and totally free. Here’s how to get started:

1. Make the commitment. Head to plasticfreejuly.org and sign up (optional but motivating!).
2. Choose your challenge. Avoid single-use plastic for a day, a week, or an entire month.
3. Pick your focus. It could be your kitchen, your commute, or your kid’s lunchbox.
4. Take one step at a time. Start small. Progress matters more than perfection.
5. Share your journey. Talk about it, post about it, and spread the word.

Remember, this isn’t about guilt. It’s about empowering yourself to make better choices—and having a little fun while you’re at it.

To help you get started, I came up with 30+ plastic-free July ideas at home for adults and fun activities for preschool kids.

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Plastic-Free July Activities for Preschoolers and Kids

Introducing sustainability at an early age is one of the best gifts we can give our children, and Plastic Free July is a fun, hands-on way to start. These Plastic Free July ideas for kids and preschoolers are playful, educational, and 100% screen-free.

1. Create a “Trash Monster” from Recyclables

One of the easiest Turn your recycling bin into a treasure chest for creativity! Grab clean cardboard tubes, egg cartons, bottle caps, and cereal boxes. Then challenge your little ones to build their own “Trash Monster” using glue, string, and paper scraps.

Not only does this reduce waste, but it also gets kids thinking about what we throw away—and how we can reuse it instead. Name the monster, give it a story, and display it proudly all month.

Tip: Use this activity to talk about the difference between recyclable, compostable, and landfill items.

2. Storytime with Eco-Themed Books

Books are powerful tools for little minds. This is one of my favorite Plastic Free July activities for preschool kids. Pick stories that celebrate nature, teach kindness to the planet, and introduce the idea of plastic pollution in age-appropriate ways. Some favorites include:

• The Earth Book by Todd Parr
• Somebody Swallowed Stanley by Sarah Roberts
• Not for Me, Please! by Maria Godsey

I also shared some amazing sustainability books for kids.

Read together, then talk about the story. What would your child do to help the ocean or the animals? These conversations can plant deep roots.

Bonus Idea: Set up a “green reading corner” with a recycled cardboard bookshelf and nature-themed cushions.

3. Nature Walks (With No Plastic Snacks!)

This is one of the easier Plastic Free July ideas for 2025. Take your preschooler outside for a simple nature walk—but make it plastic-free. Pack fruit, crackers, or homemade muffins in reusable containers, and bring water in a stainless-steel bottle. Let them help pack the snacks!

As you walk, collect interesting leaves, rocks, or pinecones (no picking flowers or disturbing habitats!). Talk about what you see, hear, and smell. Encourage them to look for litter and pick it up (using tongs or gloves, of course).

Learning moment: Discuss how plastic affects animals and how we can protect their homes.

4. DIY Playdough in Glass Jars

Skip the store-bought playdough with its plastic packaging and mystery ingredients. Make your own with simple kitchen staples:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup flour
• ½ cup salt
• 1 tbsp oil
• 2 tsp cream of tartar
• 1 cup water + natural food coloring

Let your child help stir, mix, and knead. Store the dough in old jam jars or small mason jars—no plastic tubs are needed!

Fun Twist: Scent it with lavender, lemon, or cinnamon for a sensory bonus.

5. Craft Day: Plastic-Free Art from Nature

Skip the glitter and plastic googly eyes. Instead, head outside and collect twigs, leaves, bark, petals, and pebbles. Then set up a plastic-free craft day.

Ideas include:

• Leaf rubbings using recycled paper
• Stick and twine mobiles
• Rock painting
• Nature collages with flour paste glue

This kind of open-ended crafting boosts creativity and nurtures respect for natural materials.

Want to make these Plastic Free July ideas for kids even more fun? Create an “eco-craft box” to store reusable bits like fabric scraps, corks, and cardboard for future projects.

Plastic Free July Ideas for Students

Students are the next generation of changemakers, and Plastic Free July is the perfect opportunity to turn eco-awareness into action. Whether you’re in middle school or on a college campus, these fun, hands-on activities can spark real impact.

Here are some exciting Plastic Free July ideas for students that go beyond just saying “no” to straws:

1. Build Your DIY Zero-Waste Kit

Every student needs a zero-waste starter pack. Challenge yourself or your class to create one from things you already have at home:

Kit essentials:

• Reusable water bottle
• Stainless steel or bamboo utensils
• Cloth napkin or bandana
• Tote bag or backpack
• Plantable pen
• Food container or lunchbox

Make it a group activity: compare kits, decorate bags with eco messages, and share tips on how to keep them with you daily. This is a simple but powerful Plastic Free July tip that students can carry long after July ends.

Classroom challenge: Who can go a full week using only their kit?

2. Host a School-Wide “Plastic-Free Day”

Organize a day where the entire school or campus commits to going single-use plastic-free. That means no plastic water bottles, packaging, straws, or bags.

Start with a fun morning announcement, then offer reusable swaps (cups, forks, wraps) at lunch stations. You can even create a pledge wall where students sign their names and write how they’ll reduce plastic.

This is one of the most impactful Plastic Free July challenges for schools—plus, it builds a strong sense of community around sustainability.

Tip: Partner with your eco club or student council to make it official!

3. Launch a Social Media Campaign: #PlasticFreeChallenge

Students live online—so bring Plastic Free July to their feeds! Create a challenge where classmates post their best plastic-free swaps using the hashtag #PlasticFreeChallenge.

Ideas for daily posts:

• Show your zero-waste lunch
• Share a plastic-free product review
• Post a “before and after” of your plastic purge
• Create quick TikToks about common plastic traps.

Encourage creativity, humor, and even bloopers. The more fun it looks, the more it spreads.

You can also offer small eco-friendly prizes or shout-outs for the best posts.

4. Interview a Local Sustainability Hero

Here’s a unique Plastic Free July idea that blends learning with real-world connections. Reach out to a local business owner, environmentalist, or waste reduction advocate and interview them for a class project or school blog.

Ask about their plastic-free journey, tips for young people, and advice for living more sustainably. Then share the interview in your school newsletter, on social media, or even at assembly.

This not only raises awareness, it inspires action. Plus, it makes a great addition to college or scholarship applications.

5. “Trash to Treasure” Creative Upcycling Contest

Challenge students to turn a piece of “trash” into something useful or beautiful—no plastic allowed. Think pencil holders from tin cans, old T-shirts turned into tote bags, or cereal boxes transformed into organizers.

Host a gallery walk or virtual showcase and let students vote on their favorites. You can even have categories like “Most Creative,” “Most Useful,” or “Most Unexpected.”

6. Zero-Waste Zine Project

Want to combine creativity, storytelling, and sustainability? Create a Zero-Waste Zine—a mini-magazine made entirely from reused paper, old notebooks, flyers, or junk mail. No staples, no plastic sleeves—just imagination and a glue stick.

Students can write about their Plastic Free July challenges, interview friends about plastic habits, share DIY tips, or draw eco-themed comics. Each zine becomes a personal statement on plastic-free living.

Class idea: Host a zine swap day where students exchange their creations or display them around the school.

Plastic-Free July Ideas for Work

Whether you work in a buzzing office, remotely from home, or in a hybrid setup, your workplace is a powerful place to spark change. These Plastic Free July ideas for work help coworkers connect, reduce waste, and build better habits together.

Here are some fun, team-friendly ways to keep your workplace in the challenge this July:

1. Reusable Coffee Mugs Challenge

Every office has that one coworker with a coffee addiction (maybe it’s you!). This Plastic Free July challenge is simple: for the entire month of July, ditch single-use coffee cups and bring your own reusable coffee mug.

Set up a coffee station with ceramic mugs or let teammates personalize their travel mugs. Track participation and celebrate milestones—like “10 days single-use free.”

Plastic Free July tip: Add a sign by the coffee machine that reads “Bring Your Mug, Save the Planet.”

Remote workers like me can also participate. You can post a photo of your mug each morning in a shared Slack or Teams channel.

2. Host a “Lunch & Learn” on Eco Habits

Knowledge is power—and food is motivation. Host a casual lunchtime session to share simple Plastic Free July tips with your team. You can:

• Invite a local sustainability expert (even virtually)
• Share stats about plastic waste in the workplace
• Demonstrate plastic-free lunch ideas or DIY swaps
• Include a Q&A or fun trivia.

Make it optional and fun, not preachy. Bonus points if you offer snacks in plastic-free packaging!

Do you have remote workers on the team? Stream it live and record it for teammates in other time zones.

3. Office-Wide Plastic Audit

A Plastic Free July challenge that gets everyone thinking: How much plastic does your workplace use in a day? A week? Launch a one-day or week-long office audit and track things like:

• Plastic packaging in deliveries
• Single-use cutlery and cups
• Packaged snacks in break rooms
• Office supply materials (pens, folders, etc.)

Tally the results and share them with the team. The numbers are often eye-opening—and a great starting point for change.

Tip: Turn your findings into a mini report or infographic to share company-wide.

4. Create a Zero-Waste Team Calendar

Get everyone involved with a shared team calendar packed with Plastic Free July ideas for work. Each day can feature a mini-challenge, such as:

• “Meatless Monday” (reduces plastic from packaged meat)
• “Tote Bag Tuesday”
• “Waste-Free Wednesday” (no packaged snacks)
• “Thrift Thursday” (reused outfits)
• “Freebie Friday” (swap or donate items)

Post it in the break room, share it virtually, and encourage coworkers to check off the ones they complete.

5. Sustainable Swaps Leaderboard

Turn your plastic-free efforts into a friendly competition. Create an office leaderboard where teams or departments earn points for every sustainable action they take during July. Example point system:

• +1 for using a reusable cup
• +2 for bringing lunch in a reusable container
• +3 for refusing plastic utensils
• +5 for introducing a new plastic-free habit to someone else

Track points weekly and reward top scorers with low-waste prizes (like bamboo cutlery sets or plants). Gamifying the experience keeps the energy high and habits sticking.

Here’s a fun remote-friendly idea: Use a shared Google Sheet, Trello board, or Slack thread to log points and celebrate wins.

6. Office Supply Swap

We all have that drawer of half-used pens, extra notebooks, and random sticky notes. Set up a Plastic-Free July office swap station where team members can donate or trade lightly used office supplies instead of buying new (and usually plastic-wrapped) ones.

Add a sign: “Before you buy, try the supply swap!”

 7. “Adopt a Habit” Bingo

Create a bingo card with eco-friendly workplace habits related to plastic-free July tips. Examples:

• Refused a plastic straw
• Brought lunch in a mason jar
• Sent a plastic-free birthday gift
• Posted a sustainable tip in a work chat
• Donated to a plastic cleanup project

Players mark off boxes throughout the month and win a prize or badge for a completed row.  How fun is that?!

31-Day Plastic-Free July Challenge to Do at Home

Let’s be honest: going plastic-free for a whole month isn’t easy. It takes commitment, creativity, and sometimes a little bit of grace. You’ll forget a reusable bag. You might grab a wrapped snack out of habit. And that’s OK. The heart of Plastic Free July is progress, not perfection. Every single piece of plastic you don’t use this month is a win for you, your community, and the planet.

How It Works

This Plastic Free July challenge is designed to help you take one action every day for 31 days. Some days will be simple—others will push you to think or act differently. But all of them are doable.

You can start on July 1st or jump in anytime. Miss a day? No problem. Just pick back up and keep going.

Week 1: Personal Care & Hygiene

1. Switch to a bamboo toothbrush.
2. Try shampoo and conditioner bars.
3. Switch to zero-waste toothpaste with Fluoride.
4. Use reusable cotton pads for makeup removal.
5. Adopt a safety razor for shaving.
6. Explore plastic-free deodorant options.
7. Create a homemade face mask.

Week 2: Kitchen & Cooking

1. Replace cling film with beeswax wraps.
2. Use glass or stainless steel food containers.
3. Buy in bulk using your own containers.
4. Make your own cleaning products.
5. Switch to compostable trash bags.
6. Use silicone baking mats instead of parchment paper.
7. Start composting kitchen waste. 

Week 3: On-the-Go & Lifestyle

1. Carry a reusable water bottle.
2. Bring your own coffee cup to cafes.
3. Say no to plastic straws; use metal or bamboo alternatives.
4. Pack lunches in reusable containers.
5. Use cloth bags for shopping.
6. Attend a local zero-waste workshop or event.
7. Share your progress on social media to inspire others.

Week 4: Home & Community

1. Conduct a home plastic audit.
2. Host a plastic-free dinner party.
3. Create art from recycled materials.
4. Volunteer for a local cleanup.
5. Start a community garden.
6. Organize a clothing swap event.
7. Advocate for plastic-free policies in local businesses.

Final Days: Reflection & Growth

1. Write about your plastic-free journey.
2. Set long-term sustainability goals.
3. Celebrate your achievements and plan for the future.

Plastic-Free July Tips to Stay on Track

From my own journey and the vibrant community I’ve connected with, I’ve learned that staying plastic-free is a daily practice—and a bit of smart planning goes a long way. Here are my favorite Plastic Free July ideas and tips to help you keep momentum and make this challenge truly doable:

Buy Bulk + Bring Your Own Jars: One of the easiest ways to cut plastic is to shop in bulk whenever possible. Bring glass jars or cloth bags to fill with grains, nuts, spices, or even cleaning supplies. It’s a win-win: less packaging waste, and usually better prices!

Avoid “Eco” Products Still Packaged in Plastic: Not all “green” products are plastic-free. Many “eco-friendly” items still come wrapped in plastic, which can feel like a trap. Read labels carefully and choose items with minimal or no plastic packaging.

Download Zero-Waste Shopping Apps: Technology can be your friend! Apps help you find package-free stores, sustainable swaps, and tips on the go. Having this info in your pocket makes shopping easier and more intentional. I will share my favorite options, but you can do your own research as well:

• Olio: Connects neighbors and local businesses to share surplus food and household items, reducing waste and packaging.
• Refill: Helps you find nearby refill stations for water bottles, cleaning products, and toiletries—no plastic packaging is needed.
• Think Dirty: Scans personal care products to reveal harmful chemicals and packaging, helping you choose safer, plastic-free options.
• Too Good To Go: Links users to local stores and restaurants selling surplus food at a discount, preventing food waste and unnecessary plastic packaging.
• Bite: Tracks your plastic use and offers personalized tips to reduce waste, turning sustainability into a daily habit.

Stay Prepared: Keep Reusables Handy: Always have your reusable water bottle, coffee mug, shopping bags, and utensils ready to go—whether you’re heading to work, school, or the grocery store. When you’re prepared, it’s easier to say no to single-use plastics without stress.

Read Labels and Research Products: Plastic lurks in surprising places—from toothpaste tubes to makeup containers. Take time to read ingredient lists and packaging info. The more you know, the better choices you can make. Plus, sharing what you learn spreads the impact.

Use Reddit and Facebook Groups for Community Support: You’re not alone in this! Join zero-waste and plastic-free July groups on platforms like Reddit or Facebook to swap tips, celebrate wins, and get advice on tricky situations. Community support is a game-changer when motivation dips.

Plastic Free July Resources for Ideas and & Tips

When I first started my own plastic-free journey, I found that learning from others really helped keep me inspired and informed. Whether you’re just starting or want to deepen your knowledge this Plastic Free July, these resources are absolute gems:

Plastic-Free Product Guides and Reviews

• Non-Toxic Milk Frothers
• Non-Plastic Coffee Makers
• BPA-Free Coffee Grinders
• Plastic-Free Popcorn Makers
• Non-Toxic Egg Cookers
• Plastic-Free Gum Brands
• Plastic-Free Tea Bags
•  Non-Toxic Pacifiers
• Non-Plastic Beach Toys
• Eco-Friendly LEGO
• Plastic-Free Mixing Bowls
• Non-Toxic Drawer Liners
• Zero-Waste Ice Cube Trays
• Plastic-Free Bottle Brushes
• Zero-Waste School Supplies
• Plastic-Free Breast Milk Storage Bags & Bottles 
• Why BPA-Free Plastic Isn’t Safe

Books to Dive Into

“Zero Waste Home” by Bea Johnson

Bea’s story is the ultimate guide for anyone looking to reduce waste in everyday life. Her simple tips and inspiring lifestyle changes are a game-changer.

“Plastic-Free: How I Kicked the Plastic Habit and How You Can Too” by Beth Terry

Beth’s honest and relatable approach makes plastic-free living feel doable for everyone. It’s full of practical advice and personal stories.

“The Story of Stuff” by Annie Leonard

This book (and the famous documentary) digs into the lifecycle of consumer products and reveals the hidden environmental costs behind plastic pollution.

Documentaries That Open Eyes

“A Plastic Ocean”

A stunning, emotional journey that exposes the massive impact of plastic pollution on our oceans and marine life.

“Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things”

Not just about plastic, but a powerful reminder about consumption, waste, and living intentionally.

“The Clean Bin Project”

A fun, competitive documentary about a couple’s zero-waste challenge, full of practical insights and laughs.

FAQs About Plastic-Free July 2025

Final Thoughts on Plastic-Free July Challenges & Ideas in 2025

Taking part in Plastic Free July is an incredible way to jumpstart or deepen your commitment to plastic-free living. Whether you’re tackling simple swaps at home, inspiring your kids with fun Plastic Free July ideas for preschoolers, motivating students with creative challenges, or transforming your workplace with engaging Plastic Free July challenges, every step counts.

Remember, this isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Even if you miss a day, don’t get discouraged. Use the expert Plastic Free July tips shared here to stay prepared and motivated, and feel free to explore zero-waste shopping apps, documentaries, books, and communities to keep your momentum going.

I’ve been on this journey since 2016, learning and growing by trying new ideas every year. You can do the same—small changes, thoughtful swaps, and a supportive community can make a huge difference. Here’s to a fun, inspiring, and truly impactful Plastic Free July!

Konstantina Antoniadou, Chemicals & Health Expert

Senior Writer, Product Researcher & Tester

Konstantina Antoniadou is an expert sustainability writer, certified in Chemicals and Health by Johns Hopkins University, where she focused on the toxicity of commonly found household chemicals and their health impacts. She has also completed specialized studies in Sustainable Fashion (Copenhagen Business School), Business Models for Sustainability (BMS), and Sustainable Development Goals (University of Copenhagen), deepening her expertise in the connection between personal choices and global environmental change. With years of experience as a senior writer and researcher, Konstantina now leads our reviews of non-toxic home products, beauty and skincare brands, and sustainable fashion. K. is also the creator of the popular 7-Day Non-Toxic Living Challenge, downloaded over 2,000 times and praised for its accessible, science-backed tips.