Plastic pollution is growing concern for our oceans, wildlife and human health. At Drop the Plastic we recognize that the window of opportunity to address irreversible damage is closing quickly, and we feel compelled to take immediate action. The solutions we need already exist; reusable alternatives to eliminate single-use plastics, a ban on microplastics that are currently contaminating our oceans and waterways, and a shift in behaviour to consume less. As it stands, there is a disconnect between the public’s vocal embrace of viable materials and the amount of plastic waste being created across Canada. At Drop the Plastic, we are taking a multifaceted approach to close this gap by raising awareness, bolstering education, strengthening collective action, and influencing policy.

Drop the Plastic started as a campaign to ban plastic straws in the City of Vancouver. We felt strongly that straws were an unnecessary source of landfill waste and marine plastic pollution. Ultimately, Vancouver City Council voted to approve a ban on single-use plastic straws, which comes into effect June 1st, 2019. Through the inception, struggles, and success of this early and targeted campaign we grew as an organization. We witnessed individuals and businesses craving positive change stand up and take action when given a voice in shaping the municipal policies that directly affect their livelihoods. We supported politicians and civic leaders that took notice and took action. We learned it takes a confluence of energy to affect change, and that change is more than possible, it’s necessary.