One thing that has surprised me, though, is how my bid to use less plastic is leading to a healthier me, as well.

For my plastic free pledge I have given up single-use plastic shopping bags, produce bags, straws, cutlery, drink bottles and takeaway coffee cups.

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But the initiative has prompted me to be more mindful of the plastic waste in everything I buy and, as a result, has had an impact on my purchases.

Not only have I been opting for plastic-free versions of items I buy every week (you may recall I bought KALE last week when loose-leaf spinach was unavailable), but I have also foregone some products altogether because they come in plastic.

Some of the things I have found myself buying less of include: chocolate, chips, lollies, biscuits and soft drinks (emphasis on the ‘less of’!)

My willpower to say no to junk food has been stronger since starting Plastic Free July; rather than justifying the treat (I had a hard day at work, I deserve this chocolate), I find it easier to say no for the environment.

As a result, I have found myself eating more fruit and nuts to get my sweet or salty fix (not the same, I know, but still delicious) and, to my surprise, drinking more water.

Some of the plastic alternatives have cost me more money in the short term (think reusable produce bags).

But in other areas I have actually saved money, and waste.

Instead of buying a bag of spinach at the supermarket, I have filled my own produce bag with only as much as I need.

I’m using less plastic, but also wasting less spinach.

And instead of buying a big block of chocolate or bag of chips to satisfy a craving, I have found myself buying chocolate or salted nuts at shops like Daily Scoop at Majo’s, where I can buy only as much as I need (chocolate is a need, right?) in a paper bag. I actually tried carob. And liked it.

The result is less plastic and food waste for the environment, and less junk food for me!