Plastic Free July a finalist at UN SDG Action Awards

Newsflash: Plastic Free July is a finalist in the mobilise category of the prestigious UN SDG Action Awards. 

At an historic UN Summit in September 2015 world leaders set out 17 Sustainable Development Goals to achieve more inclusive, peaceful and sustainable societies, no later than 2030. Each year, the UN holds awards for the people and organisations taking action to shape this new reality. 

Flip the script

This year, the theme is #FlipTheScript – to celebrate those who are rewriting the stories on how we behave and redefining what is possible. 

Out of over 3,000 applications, received from 150 countries, Plastic Free July has been named a finalist—selected as one of the top two in the world—for collective and coordinated action that can flip the script on how we can achieve the 2030 Agenda. An impressive recognition of grassroots action. 

Collective action

The honour goes to every single one of the 140 million people who take part in the challenge and make a difference.  

Everyone who participated in Plastic Free July flips the script from just thinking ‘what difference can I make?’ to focusing on solutions and demonstrating the difference that “we” can make with collective action. Whether it’s bringing a reusable cup to work and showing others it’s doable, creating a sense of community around plastic free meals or educating your children (or perhaps your children educating you) on simple swaps around the house to avoid single-use plastics. It starts small, but together, builds.

This award is recognition of everyone deciding to turn the tide on plastic waste, one choice at a time. By focusing on reduction and avoidance, we are taking action towards UNSDG 12—Responsible Production and Consumption – to create a world we all want to live in.

The winners will be announced during the #SDGAwards Ceremony in Germany on 27th September. Tune in to the ceremony online here.