Alexandra Keeling

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

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

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

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 plastic toothbrush with a bamboo toothbrush.

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.

Single-use plastics are everywhere, but that wasn't always the case. I will spend at least 5 minutes learning about the history of single-use plastics and how it became ubiquitous in our daily lives.

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

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

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.

I will recycle used contact lenses and packaging.

I will spend 10 minutes learning about the costs of fast fashion and begin trying to practice sustainable fashion in my own life.

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

The chasing arrows symbol we associate with recycling doesn't always actually mean something is recyclable. I will spend at least 5 minutes learning the different meanings the symbol can have.

Contamination prevents what is recyclable from being recycled. I will spend 5 minutes researching which materials are accepted by local haulers or drop stations in my community and recycle only those items.