In northwest Indiana, the Plastic Reduction Alliance invites the public to an informative, interactive event that will focus on alternatives to everyday plastic items. In celebration of Plastic-free July, the group will hold two SWAP OUT YOUR PLASTICS sessions in July. On July 8, 2026, the public is invited to Valparaiso University’s Center for the Sciences (first floor lobby and room 181) beginning at 6:30pm. A similar session will be held July 9th at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church in Merrillville (8303 Taft Street), south campus community hall, beginning at 7:00pm. The NWI Plastics Reduction Alliance team will provide information and updates on plastics, share their favorite plastic alternatives, offer opportunities to win these useful items, test your plastics’ knowledge with a Bingo game and host vendors who embrace a low/no-plastic, reusable and sustainable economy.
(Image provided, Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County)
Join the Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 5:00–8:00 PM at the Valparaiso Public Library for a free screening of an award-winning documentary, The Story of Plastic, presented by the Porter County Recycling and Waste Reduction District and the Plastic Reduction Alliance. The event will kick off Plastic Free July, a global movement that encourages people to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics and make more sustainable choices. The event is free and open to the public will be at Valparaiso Public Library Community Room. Light refreshments will be provided.
Following the screening, attendees are invited to participate in a discussion and Q&A session with two Valparaiso University experts. Dr. Julie Peller is a Professor of Chemistry at Valparaiso University whose work focuses on environmental chemistry, sustainability, and plastic waste reduction. She has led research examining plastic waste on campus and has been an active advocate for community-based solutions to plastic pollution and waste reduction. Dr. Christina Davis is a professor at Valparaiso University whose work includes environmental sustainability and community engagement initiatives. She has collaborated on educational efforts that help connect scientific research with practical actions that individuals and communities can take to reduce environmental impacts.
(Image provided, Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County)
