Mary Dobrzynski

I will give my pets natural alternatives to toys like femur bones and antlers, canvas, natural rubber, hemp, rope or cotton toys. Or make our own toys from recycled items found in our home!

Although a long-standing festive tradition, balloons are harmful for animals and the environment. I will spend 60 learning about the dangers of balloons and find eco-friendly alternatives to use instead.

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

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

I will recycle used contact lenses and packaging.

I will switch to a plastic-free deodorant — whether purchased or DIY'd.

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

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.

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.

I will only use reusable containers instead of single-use plastic storage items (such as plastic wrap, single-use sandwich bags).

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.

If traveling, I will bring my own snacks and meals in my own containers to avoid the waste of take-out containers.

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

When I need to replace my dish soap, I will switch to a bar or refillable option.

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

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

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

Single-use plastics are everywhere, but that wasn't always the case. I will spend at least 60 minutes learning about the history of single-use plastics and how it became ubiquitous in our daily lives.

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

I will not buy anything except items required for health and safety.

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

If possible, I will avoid sending 4 disposable cup(s) to the landfill per day by using a reusable mug or bringing my own travel cup.

The chasing arrows symbol we associate with recycling doesn't always actually mean something is recyclable. I will spend at least 60 minutes learning the different meanings the symbol can have.

I will spend 120 minutes learning about the costs of fast fashion and begin trying to practice sustainable fashion in my own life.