Celebrating Plastic Free July In Northern Michigan
Small businesses are the heart of Northern Michigan. From bustling coffee shops in Traverse City to roadside farm stands, event venues, and artisan retailers, these local entrepreneurs shape the charm, character, and culture of our region. This Plastic-Free July, we’re spotlighting how these businesses can help protect the natural beauty we all cherish by reducing plastic waste and embracing more sustainable practices.
At Bay Area Recycling for Community, we’re proud to support local businesses with commercial compostable products, recycling services, and zero-waste event support that make going green easier than ever. Whether you’re stocking up for the busy season or planning a summer event, we’re here to help you take the next step.
Why Plastic-Free July Matters
Plastic-Free July is a global campaign by the Plastic Free Foundation that encourages millions of people to reduce their single-use plastic footprint throughout the month. The goal? Cleaner streets, oceans, and communities, and a growing awareness that the future is in our hands!
Businesses and individuals alike are invited to participate by pledging to eliminate or reduce plastic use and switch to sustainable alternatives wherever possible.
How To Reduce Plastic Waste as a Small Business Owner
Make the Switch to Compostables
Ditch single-use plastic utensils, cups, containers, and bags. BARC offers plant-based compostable alternatives perfect for restaurants, cafes, breweries, and events. From compostable pint cups to fiber takeout boxes, our lineup is designed to perform like plastic, but break down naturally, without harming the planet.
Rethink Packaging
If your business ships products, consider recyclable or compostable mailers, paper tape, and biodegradable filler instead of plastic bubble wrap. Offer minimal or plastic-free gift wrapping in-store.
Offer Refill Stations
Encourage repeat customers and reduce waste by offering refill stations for soaps, lotions, detergents, or coffee beans. It’s a win-win: customers save money and reduce packaging waste, and your business becomes part of a growing circular economy.
Promote BYO Culture
Reward customers who bring their own mugs, containers, or bags. Offer a small discount or loyalty points to encourage repeat visits—and post signage that lets people know you’re proud to be a plastic-free-friendly business.
Host a Zero-Waste Event
Planning a customer appreciation day, outdoor concert, or summer pop-up? Let BARC help you make it zero waste. We provide compost bins, signage, education, and pickup so your event can go green without the hassle.
Recycling For Business Services
Not sure what to do with cardboard, cans, or soft plastics? BARC offers reliable recycling pickup for businesses across the region. Whether you’re an office, storefront, or production facility, we’ll tailor a solution that works for your needs—and helps keep recyclable materials out of the landfill.
For Everyone: Everyday Tips to Reduce Plastic Waste
Even if you’re not a business owner, your daily choices matter. Small changes in your routine can help reduce plastic waste and inspire others to do the same. Here are some easy, impactful swaps to try this July:
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Keep reusable bags on hand
Stash cloth or foldable bags in your car, purse, or backpack so you’re always ready for an unplanned stop at the store or market.
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Carry a reusable water bottle and coffee cup
Skip the single-use plastic bottles and cups by bringing your own. Many coffee shops will even give you a small discount when you bring a clean reusable mug.
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Shop at farmers markets and bulk stores
Choosing unpackaged produce or buying grains, nuts, and snacks in bulk using your own containers cuts down on plastic waste and supports local growers.
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Dine in when you can or bring your own to-go tools
Takeout meals often come with excess plastic packaging. Dining in eliminates most of it. When dining out or ordering food to go, consider bringing your own cutlery, straw, and food container.
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Support Sustainable Businesses
Look for local shops and restaurants that offer compostable packaging, refills, or plastic-free products. Choosing to spend your money at businesses that care about sustainability creates a ripple effect.
Looking for more easy swaps? Check out this Plastic Free July blog for additional ideas and practical tips to keep reducing your plastic use all year long.
Take the Plastic-Free July Challenge
Going plastic-free doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small, make intentional swaps, and share your progress with friends, customers, and community members. Tag @MYBARCTC on Instagram or Facebook and show us how you’re reducing waste this summer. Let’s work together this July to create a cleaner, greener Northern Michigan one plastic-free choice at a time.