Plastic Free July – why it matters

Every July, millions of people around the world take part in Plastic Free July, a global movement that encourages individuals, communities, and businesses to reduce their plastic use and waste. But beyond the environmental impact, there’s a more personal reason to pay attention: your health – and particularly when it relates to your breast cancer risk.

Plastic and breast cancer: what’s the connection?

While there is no direct link between plastic use and breast cancer, it’s more about the compounds plastics are made from and contain. Many plastic products, including food packaging and drinks bottles, contain endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates. These chemicals can often end up in our bodies due to their ability to migrate from products into the environment and food chain leading to unintentional exposures.

In the body, EDCs have been shown to mimic or interfere with our hormones, particularly oestrogen. Having high levels of oestrogen is recognised as a risk factor for breast cancer. Several EDCs have previously been linked to an increased breast cancer risk due in part to their effects on oestrogen levels.

Although more long-term research is needed, the precautionary principle is recommended here. If there’s evidence suggesting something could be harmful, it’s worth taking steps to avoid it!

What about microplastics, and why should you care?

The breakdown of plastic in the environment can result in the production of microplastics, which are tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size. These particles can be found virtually everywhere – from Antarctic snow and deep ocean trenches, to drinking water and the food we eat. Microplastics have also been detected in wildlife and even in various human tissues and fluids including breast tissue and milk.

The detection of microplastics in human breast tissue raises alarm bells about their long-term health effects. Of particular concern is the fact that these tiny particles can absorb and release potentially harmful EDCs which, as mentioned above, may increase the risk of breast cancer via the effects they have on the hormone system.

So, what can I do?

Going plastic-free in your daily life: simple swaps

Going completely plastic-free can feel overwhelming – but small steps matter. Start where you are and build from there. Here are practical, manageable ways to reduce your plastic footprint:

Kitchen swaps:

• Ditch cling film for beeswax wraps (ensure beeswax comes from an ethical and environmentally friendly source)
• Use glass or stainless-steel containers instead of plastic tubs
• Choose loose produce over plastic-wrapped fruits and veggies
• When choosing tea towels, opt for natural fibres like cotton (organic if possible) instead of synthetic fabrics

Bathroom swaps:

• Switch to bar soap, shampoo, and conditioner (use the Yuka app to find some without harmful chemicals)
• Use bamboo toothbrushes
• Opt for reusable menstrual products, like reusable organic cotton or bamboo pads
• Avoid cosmetics that contain microbeads

When you’re out and about:

• Carry a reusable stainless steel water bottle and coffee cup
• Always have a reusable tote bag with you (like our Birds and Boobs ones here)

The bigger picture: empowering change

Participating in Plastic Free July isn’t just about reducing waste – it’s a statement. It’s a stand for healthier communities and a cleaner planet. And when it comes to something as serious as breast cancer, prevention can be powerful.

While not every breast cancer diagnosis is preventable, reducing your exposure to known or suspected EDCs is a proactive, empowering step. It’s also a collective one – when we act together, businesses and governments are more likely to start listening and commit to making more positive changes, not only for our health, but for the health of our planet too.

Take action today!

• Share this blog to raise awareness
• Make one plastic-free swap today and keep the momentum going

Your health is worth it.