Carolyn Howard

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

I will replace 5 plastic bottles with glass or stainless steel alternatives.

Because many tea bags and most sleeves and sachets contain plastic, I will switch to using loose leaf tea.

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

I will prepare meals at home each day without using any items packaged in single-use plastic.

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 5 friends, family, and/or colleagues.

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

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

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

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 pick up 2 piece(s) of litter each day.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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 host or participate in a beach, highway, river, or other cleanup effort in my community.

I will teach my little ones about microplastics while we do a craft project together using glitter alternatives.

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.

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