Participate in Plastic Free July with Shedd Aquarium

As 22 million pounds of plastic enters the Great Lakes every year, Shedd Aquarium is encouraging the public to be part of the global movement this “Plastic Free July” to reduce plastic pollution and protect the planet.

Each year, millions of people from over 190 countries worldwide participate in Plastic Free July by choosing to refuse single-use plastic. Here in Chicago, over 130 businesses have joined the “Let’s Shedd Plastic” initiative and pledge to reduce plastic use in their operations. Through Shedd’s Action Days, volunteers last year cleaned over 5,000 pounds of waste from local shorelines.

“As an individual, it can be difficult to see how small steps every day can make a larger impact,” said Maggie Cooper, manager of conservation action at Shedd. “But there is power in participation and collective action is critical to making a difference, so we are grateful for businesses, partners, volunteers and others who join us this month and beyond to keep plastic out of our waterways for wildlife and people who depend on this vital resource.”

Shedd provides a variety of ways for everyone to get involved in Plastic Free July, particularly with the inaugural Plastic Free Restaurant Week to highlight local businesses taking steps towards sustainability.

SIP, SNACK AND SUPPER SUSTAINABLY

Shedd Aquarium created a new way to celebrate “Let’s Shedd Plastic” restaurant partners that operate without or reduced single-use plastic in their operations and prioritize sustainability measures. Over 15 restaurants are participating in the new Plastic Free Restaurant Week from July 12-21 to showcase sustainable dishes on their menus and share how they prioritize sustainability in their operations.

Many of these participants commit to using only compostable, reusable or recyclable materials and sourcing ingredients from local farmers. Chefs at North Pond Restaurant utilize their rooftop garden's vegetables, herbs and flowers for fresh ingredients. Galit strives to creatively use all parts of certain plants to reduce food waste. From farm-raised Alabama catfish at Big Jones to vegan bao at Alice and Friends, there’s a breadth of dishes to enjoy while celebrating sustainability.

Year-round, over 130 collaborators commit to reducing their use of plastic as “Let’s Shedd Plastic” restaurant partners. Those participating in Plastic Free Restaurant Week are listed on Shedd’s website.

By dining during Plastic Free Restaurant Week, participants not only enjoy a delicious dish but also support sustainable partners. This act might even inspire other restaurants and individuals to join the movement to reduce plastic use and take additional steps to support critical habitats and the animals who call them home.

PICK UP PLASTIC POLLUTION

Help restore local habitats with Shedd Aquarium Action Days by volunteering to clean litter along shorelines and remove invasive plant species to support wildlife and natural spaces in the Chicagoland area. Plastic makes up 86% of the litter removed during Great Lakes cleanups, so Action Days are excellent opportunities to engage in Plastic Free July.

Action Days are held year-round, and volunteers can register online. Upcoming litter cleanup days during Plastic Free July are on Saturdays, July 13-27.

REMEMBER YOUR REUSABLES

While single-use plastics like cups, utensils and bags might feel convenient in the moment, these items are not biodegradable and often not recyclable leaving a lasting impact. Shedd provides an action guide to track weekly plastic use and identify the best areas to make the switch to reusables. Reusable water bottles, tote bags and containers are simple alternatives to reduce plastic pollution.

VISUALS: Find high-resolution photos here: https://personal.filesanywhere.com/guest/fs?v=8e6f668d5f646d7d70ad&C=50

Photo Credit: ©Shedd Aquarium