FREMANTLE-founded Plastic Free July could be set for a $750,000 cash injection from WA Labor if it’s re-elected at the March 8 election. 

Founded by Freo local Rebecca Prince-Ruiz, Plastic Free July is an annual campaign to reduce plastic usage from the Plastic Free Foundation. 

As part of the campaign, participants are encouraged to steer away from single-use plastic items in favour of more sustainable alternatives. 

Last year, 174 million people from 190 countries took part in the campaign which is now described as “one of the most influential environmental campaigns” globally. 

• Plastic Free July founder Rebecca Prince-Ruiz and Fremantle Labor MP Simone McGurk.

The Plastic Free campaign also provides information for “bin auditing”, which ensures waste is disposed of correctly and avoided where possible. 

WA Labor say it’s part of their “nation-leading” Plan for Plastics initiative which has signalled bans on single use plastics in the state, including plates and bowls, cutlery, microbeads, and straws. 

Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk says she is “proud” to contribute to the Plastic Free initiative, which was home grown and is now internationally renowned. 

“Single-use plastics are a scourge on our environment and native wildlife, and we all have a role in reducing our use,” Ms McGurk said. 

“Founded in Fremantle, the Plastic Free Foundation has been a leading agent to drive important behaviour change, particularly in young people.”