Why Is July 3 Observed as International Plastic Free Day in 2023? Background, Importance, and Theme

Every year on July 3rd, the special occasion known as International Plastic Free Day is commemorated to increase public awareness of plastic usage and environmental damage. Plastic bags are widely used in retail establishments and grocery stores. The annual celebration of International Plastic Free Day aims to increase public awareness of the negative effects of single-use plastic on the environment and living things.

2023: The Year of the International Plastic Free Day
International Plastic Free Day has a long history that began in 2008. The campaign, Bag Free World, which was a global effort to reduce the use of single-use plastic bags, launched the initiative. Many nations joined in on this movement as it spread throughout the world. On July 3, 2003, Zero Waste Europe began a campaign against single-use plastic bags, and the European Union passed several guidelines to limit their usage globally in 2015. Since then, this unique day has been extensively observed around the world in an effort to protect the environment from the negative impacts of plastic.

2023’s International Plastic Free Day: Importance
Single-use plastic contributes to environmental degradation, the extinction of aquatic life, and landfill overflow. Furthermore, they are non-biodegradable, which only degrades into minute particles that pollute the environment. As a result, it is essential to stop using plastic and establish a plastic-free environment.

Theme for the 2023 International Plastic Free Day
International Plastic Free Day 2023 has no set theme, however it does promote sustainable development and a future free of plastic.

2023 International Plastic Free Day: Sayings And Quotes
Plastic Bag Free Day acts as a reminder that all plastic products ought to be banned before they wipe out all life on Earth.

On International Plastic Bag Free Day, we have the chance to pledge that we won’t use plastic bags every day in the hopes of improving the world.

We have received many treasures from nature. It’s time to replenish the natural world. On Plastic Bag Free Day, let’s give the gift of “no plastic” to the environment.

Bring your own bags to the store to pick up your goods on Plastic Bag Free Day, everyone.

Animals are being killed by plastic pollution, which also contaminates our oceans and waterways and lasts much longer than it is intended to. – Leo Di Caprio

“The world’s most isolated regions are now home to plastic garbage. Communities that rely on fishing and tourism are being seriously harmed by it, as well as the marine life it kills. Anthony Guterres

“The concept of ‘away’ doesn’t exist. Anything we discard has to end up somewhere. Annie Leonard

“A world free of plastic pollution is not a choice; it is a commitment to life and the next generation.” (Amit Ray)

The problem with plastic pollution doesn’t begin in the middle of the sea, on our coasts, or in our rivers—it begins on land. On land, its source, should be addressed. Merijn Tinga.