How to do World Environment Day differently this year
By Laura Chalk 5 June 2025
As World Environment Day focuses on the critical goal of beating plastic pollution, here are some simple tips from us to help you tackle the issue.
This World Environment Day, the global call to action is clear: #BeatPlasticPollution. Timed just two months before countries reconvene to negotiate a global treaty on plastic pollution, this year’s theme is a timely reminder of the urgent need for action.
While government at all levels, plastic manufacturers and retailers and the waste industry have the greatest capacity to impact change, that doesn't mean our individual actions are insignificant. On the contrary, when millions of us make small changes within our daily lives, it adds up to meaningful, collective impact.
Most of us already know the mantra: reduce, reuse, recycle. But between work, family, and the daily grind, even the best intentions can slip. So why not use today, or the long weekend, as a moment to pause and reflect with a mid-year plastic check-in?
Start by taking stock of your own plastic habits. Could you buy less, reuse more, or recycle better? Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Audit your kitchen
Open your fridge and pantry. Are there items you could swap for plastic-free alternatives? Create a reminder list for your fridge or phone to help guide your choices.
Check recyclability
Are the plastic items you’re using actually recyclable? Can they be reused instead of discarded? Check packaging recyclability using the Australasian Recycling Label or refer to Recycling Near You for more information.
Find soft plastics solutions
While a national soft plastics scheme is still developing, some start-ups and local councils are already stepping in. Look into what's available in your area.
Lend a hand locally
Join a local beach, river or bushland clean-up or go solo with a bag and gloves. Every piece of plastic removed from nature counts.
Write to your MP
Remind your local representative that the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution meets again soon. Ask them what action they're taking to tackle plastic across its entire lifecycle in your electorate. Push for accountability from manufacturers.
Contact your favourite brands
Urge companies to phase out unnecessary plastic. Ask them to make sure any plastic they do use is recyclable and labelled with the Australasian Recycling Label.
And finally, get outside. Reconnect with the natural world that we’re all working to protect. Notice the birdsong, the breeze, the smell of the earth. Let that connection inspire you to continue making choices that protect the planet.
To deepen your commitment, why not sign up for National Tree Day on July 27? It’s Australia’s largest nature care and tree planting event and provides the perfect opportunity to get your hands dirty and give back to the environment, together with thousands of others around the country.
With a background in Teaching English as a Second Language and Communications, Laura joined Planet Ark in 2016. Laura has a passion for the environment and behaviour change, and is excited about using social media to help people take positive environmental actions everyday.
