Julie Gonsalves

Wipes don't break down in sewer systems, but combine with fat to create massive clogs. I will find alternatives to using disposable wipes.

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.

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

I will replace 1 plastic bottles with glass or stainless steel alternatives.

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

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

I will only pack reusable cutlery, drinkware and containers in my family's lunches to reduce plastic waste.

Although a long-standing festive tradition, balloons are harmful for animals and the environment. I will spend 30 learning about the dangers of balloons and find eco-friendly alternatives to use instead.

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

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

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

I will spend 30 minutes learning about the costs of fast fashion and begin trying to practice sustainable fashion in my own life.

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.

I will use a reusable bottle and stop purchasing bottled water, saving 1 disposable plastic bottle(s) a day.

I will hang-dry my laundry to use the sun as a natural bleach alternative, or use another natural bleach alternative.

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

I will pick up 1 piece(s) of litter each day.

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

I will only buy cloth, wooden or plant-based natural rubber toys. Or make our own toys from recycled items found in our home!

I will spend 30 minutes educating my family on the basics of living a reduced/no-plastic lifestyle.

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

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.

The chasing arrows symbol we associate with recycling doesn't always actually mean something is recyclable. I will spend at least 30 minutes learning the different meanings the symbol can have.

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 1 friends, family, and/or colleagues.

I will replace my pet's shampoo with an eco-friendly shampoo bar or refillable shampoo option.

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

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.

Single-use plastics are everywhere, but that wasn't always the case. I will spend at least 30 minutes learning about the history of single-use plastics and how it became ubiquitous in our daily lives.

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

When it's time to buy more, I will replace my beauty products with refillable, sustainable, and/or DIY options.