LEXINGTON, Ky. — The city is encouraging residents to participate in Plastic Free July, a global movement aimed at reducing single-use plastic consumption, for the second consecutive year.

The month-long initiative, which runs throughout July, does not require participants to eliminate plastic entirely, but rather to make intentional choices about reducing reliance on single-use items. Residents are invited to select one single-use plastic product and replace it with a reusable alternative, such as bringing cloth bags to grocery stores, carrying reusable cups to coffee shops, or using reusable cutlery instead of disposable options.

"Recycling cannot solve the problem of plastic pollution," said Judith Humble, chair of the Zero Waste Team for the Sierra Club Bluegrass Group, a local affiliate of the Sierra Club that works on environmental issues throughout Central Kentucky. "Take a pledge to pass on plastic and share some alternative options with your family, friends and community. The journey to big change begins with small, intentional steps."

The city's Green Cup program offers incentives for residents who bring reusable beverage containers to participating coffee shops. Participating locations include A Cup of Common Wealth, Good Foods Co-op, The Greenery, Kenwick Table, Leestown Coffee House, Lussi Brown Coffee Bar, and Third Street Stuff and Coffee. These shops offer discounts to customers who bring their own cups and are distributing complimentary reusable straws while supplies last.

The city emphasizes that sustainability doesn't require purchasing new items. Officials recommend using products already owned, as reusing existing materials remains the most environmentally responsible option. Residents who choose to participate are encouraged to share their efforts on social media by tagging @LiveGreenLex on Facebook and Instagram.