Brittany Caldwell

Plastic production, not just disposal, pollutes communities and harms people. I will learn about the impacts of plastic production on humans, animals, communities, and the environment.

I will purchase food items with the least amount of packaging.

I will use a reusable bottle and stop purchasing bottled water, saving 5 disposable plastic bottle(s) a day.

I will use laundry detergent that is packaged in glass or aluminum, or an alternative like soap nuts.

I will plant an herb or vegetable garden using as little plastic as possible and to save from the plastic used buying herbs and veggies.

I will replace my soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and lotions with sustainable, unpackaged, or refillable options.

The numbers #1-7 on plastics tell us a lot - and can help us be better recyclers. I will learn what these numbers mean and which types of plastics are accepted for recycling in my area.

Throughout its life cycle, polystyrene (styrofoam) can harm people, communities, and the planet. I will refuse styrofoam whenever I can, making sure to kindly let people know why I'm asking for alternative packaging.

I will calculate my ecological footprint, and from the results brainstorm and take action on ways I can reduce my annual footprint.

I will give a shout-out on social media to a local company, coworker, friend or family member for their plastic free or green efforts.

I will pick up 5 piece(s) of litter each day.

I will use a microfiber catcher in my laundry, or install a microfiber filter for my washing machine.

I will keep 3 plastic cutlery out of the landfill per day by using my own reusable cutlery.

I will conduct a waste audit - including recyclables and compost - to understand how much waste I create and where I can reduce the most.

I will use wool dryer balls or another plastic-free alternative to dryer sheets to keep my clothes static-free.

When available, I will purchase clothing and bedding made with natural fibers, such as cotton, linen, or wool, rather than synthetic fibers.

Although a long-standing festive tradition, balloons are harmful for animals and the environment. I will spend 10 learning about the dangers of balloons and find eco-friendly alternatives to use instead.

I will advocate for alternatives to single use packaging at local grocery stores, markets, or work.

I will keep 3 plastic straw(s) out of the landfill per day by refusing straws or using my own reusable straw.

When possible, I will not use disposable bags when shopping, including produce bags.

The chasing arrows symbol we associate with recycling doesn't always actually mean something is recyclable. I will spend at least 15 minutes learning the different meanings the symbol can have.

I will talk to the owner or manager of a restaurant I frequent to request that they reduce their use of single-use and disposable plastics.

If traveling, I will reuse my old travel tubes to refill with my soaps or only bring bar soaps with me.