July is almost here. When I sat down to think about what to write for my Plastic Free July 2026 post, I admit to a bit of writer’s block. This led me to wonder if the plastic-free movement still matters in 2026.

I’ve participated in Plastic Free July in some way every year since 2020. In case you missed them, here are my Plastic Free July posts from previous years:

• 10 things I learned from Plastic-Free July (2020)
• 31 ways you can join the Plastic Free July movement (2021)
• Let’s win the war on plastics (2022)
• Plastics and your health (2024)
• Take things one step further (2025)

Searching for inspiration for Plastic Free July 2026

In need of inspiration for this year’s post, I took a quick look at the Plastic Free July website. This revealed lots of good news stories but no specific theme for Plastic Free July 2026. Is the Plastic Free Foundation suffering from writer’s block too?

Next, I opened their calendar seeking ideas. It made me feel good to realize I’ve already adopted these habits over the years. Does that mean I’m perfect and there’s nothing more to do? Far from it! I’ve come a long way, but there’s always room for improvement.

From the calendar, I chose three actions to focus on this July:

• Use what we have. I’ve done a Buy Nothing Challenge in the past. This July, I’ll refocus on buying only necessities.
• Borrow instead of buying. I already do this by borrowing books from the library. If I need anything this July, I’ll see if I can borrow it from someone.
• Clean up litter. I see other people picking up waste around the neighbourhood. I’ll make that part of my morning walks this July.

Yes! Plastic Free July is still relevant in 2026!

Back to my original question. Is Plastic Free July still relevant in 2026?

I believe it is and the Plastic Free Foundations 2025 Impact Report reveals 174 million people across 190 countries around the world agree with me. Further, 75% of the world’s population supports policies and action to reduce waste.

There’s nothing like positive action to improve our lives. The impact report showed those who took the Plastic Free July pledge have strong social connections and a positive sense of wellbeing.

In the last 7 years, Plastic Free July participants have collectively avoided 15 million tons of waste. That’s the weight of over 100,000 blue whales, and more than all the waste collected by the 10 biggest cleanups around the world combined. 

You can help set a world record on July 1, 2026

On July 1, 2026, the Plastic Free Foundation needs your help to set a world record for the most people refusing single-use plastic in one day. Details on how you can participate are on the Plastic Free July website.

Let’s show the world that Plastic Free July still matters! Join me in taking the Plastic Free July 2026 pledge and drop me a comment below to let me know you’re in.