Claire Downs

I will spend at least 30 minutes researching the impacts of bioplastics and how to properly dispose of them in my city, and I will share this information with 4 friends, family, and/or colleagues.

I will prepare my own pet treats to avoid plastic packaging.

I will make my own cleaning products or choose plastic-free, refillable options.

I will create or support a sharing economy with family, friends, and neighbors.

Using the action resource links below, my family will spend 60 minutes learning about environmental justice, causes of environmental injustice, and how plastic waste disproportionately impacts already vulnerable communities.

I will replace my disposable razors with steel razors.

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

Contamination prevents what is recyclable from being recycled. I will spend 30 minutes researching which materials are accepted by local haulers or drop stations in my community and recycle only those items.

I will try new recipe(s) or food preparation method(s) each day, such as canning, pickling, making yogurt, or baking granola bars or bread.

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

I will write or sign 1 letters, emails or petitions per day to advocate for plastic-free or planet-friendly policies.

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.

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

I will make my environmental actions visible by sharing about them on my social media networks and the Plastic Free Ecochallenge participant feed.

I will donate 5 zero waste period kits to young people with periods so that they can reduce their waste and the financial burden of menstruation while continuing their education.

If possible, I will avoid sending 1 disposable cup(s) to the landfill per day by using a reusable mug or bringing my own travel cup.