It is estimated that around 8 million tons of plastic waste escapes into oceans from coastal nations every year. These plastics often contain additives making them stronger, more flexible and more durable, but also extending the life of these products, with some taking up to an estimated 400 years to break down.*
Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues and has now become so severe, that it has prompted efforts by the United Nations to negotiate a global effort to tackle it.*
Awareness events such as Plastic Free July, where we are encouraged to stop and think about our plastic usage, have never been more important than they are now. Every year millions of animals are killed by plastics, and nearly 700 species (including endangered ones) are known to have been affected by plastics.*
With a whole workbook in the Sweet resource dedicated to environmental awareness, the team felt passionate about getting involved, and the Plastic Free Pledges have already begun rolling in.
Our pledges so far include: switching from plastic straws to aluminium straws, making homemade energy bars to cut down on plastic wrapping, and switching from cotton wool pads to reusable bamboo pads.
To help get your students involved, we’ve created not one but two FREE printable worksheets, which we have uploaded here: https://www.sweet.education/free-printable-worksheets
One worksheet will see students reflect on their own plastic usage, and research ways that they might be able to reduce this. They will also be encouraged to make a Plastic Free Pledge. The second resource is Plastic Free Bingo, for teachers, students and anyone else who wants to get involved! See how many you can tick off by the end of the July…
We know that you and your students will come up with some great ideas and pledges, and maybe even get a full house. Make sure you tag us in your photos and ideas, and send your favourite pledges in to us at communications@sweet.education so that we can share them on our social media.
You can find out more about plastic free July at www.plasticfreejuly.org