As 22 million pounds of plastic enters the Great Lakes every year, Shedd Aquarium is encouraging the public to be part of the global movement this “Plastic Free July” to reduce plastic pollution and protect the planet. Each year, millions of people from over 190 countries worldwide participate in Plastic Free July by choosing to refuse single-use plastic. Here in Chicago, over 130 businesses have joined the “Let’s Shedd Plastic” initiative and pledge to reduce plastic use in their operations. Through Shedd’s Action Days, volunteers last year cleaned over 5,000 pounds of waste from local shorelines. Shedd provides a variety of ways for everyone to get involved in Plastic Free July, particularly with the inaugural Plastic Free Restaurant Week to highlight local businesses taking steps towards sustainability. Year-round, over 130 collaborators commit to reducing their use of plastic as “Let’s Shedd Plastic” restaurant partners. Those participating in Plastic Free Restaurant Week are listed on Shedd’s website. Action Days are held year-round, and volunteers can register online. For more information or to register for a clean-up day, visit www.sheddaquarium.org.

Photo Credit: ©Shedd Aquarium