Sara Hopkins

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

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

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

I will replace my disposable razors with steel razors.

I will replace my plastic toothbrush with a bamboo toothbrush.

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

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

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 3 friends, family, and/or colleagues.

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 swap out 10 prepackaged snacks a day for fresh fruits or veggies.

I will keep 1 plastic straw(s) out of the landfill per day by refusing straws or using my own reusable straw.

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.

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

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

I will give up gum or choose gum made from chicle or other plastic-free gum bases.

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.

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.