Photo by Sören Funk on Unsplash

GT: Plastic Free July

July is Plastic Free July, a global movement that is working towards a vision of seeing the world free from plastic waste. Starting in Western Australia in 2011 it has grown to be a world wide movement of bringing awareness around plastic waste, and the many ways that we can all cut down on excess plastics. For the team at Geartrade this is a goal near and dear to our hearts. We are passionate about extending the life cycle of all outdoor products, and minimizing our environmental impact wherever we can. And while we are not entirely plastic free, we do implement strong practices to reduce our plastic waste. Geartrade began its anti-plastic commitments in 2019, which included usage of recycled or compostable mailer bags and packing tape in all outgoing shipments, and reuse of all plastic that is shipped to the warehouse by gear resellers. Geartrade also helps lower the carbon footprint of outdoor products with every sale, as extending a product’s lifespan is the simplest and most effective way to reduce its overall carbon footprint. Worldwide, it is estimated that there is 6.3 billion tons of waste plastic currently afflicting lands, waterways and oceans. An additional 368 million tons of new plastic is being created each year, of which up to 8 million tons is expected to enter oceans and coastal areas as waste. Dealing with the problem of plastic waste will require a cultural shift in how we think about consumption. And of course, not everyone is fortunate enough to be picky about what they’re eating and how it’s packaged. However, for those of us who are, the daily choices we make—including the business practices we choose to reward with our hard-earned dollars—can add up to a very real impact. If more and more consumers demand alternatives to single-use plastic products, manufacturers will be forced to pay attention. In the meantime, making a deliberate effort to keep more plastic out of landfills, oceans, and ecosystems is a great place to start. To read about Geartrade writer TJ Parsons adventures of going completely plastic free for one week click here. We hope you join us in celebrating Plastic Free July not just this month but every month.

Have Summer gear to sell? Get cracking.

The easiest way to lower the carbon footprint of outdoor gear is to keep it in use. Do you have tents, packs, hike and camp gear, bike gear that you no longer need? Now is the time to pass your gear on to the next adventurer. It is now easier than ever to sell your gear on Geartrade. With our Consignment Selling option you can finally reclaim your gear closet. Send it in. We take care of the rest.