Jess Kohring

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

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

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

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

I will pick up 10 piece(s) of litter each day.

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

I will swap out my single use plastic bags for a pooper-scooper.

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

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

The chasing arrows symbol we associate with recycling doesn't always actually mean something is recyclable. I will spend at least 10 minutes learning the different meanings the symbol can have.

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

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.

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

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 swap out 5 prepackaged snacks a day for fresh fruits or veggies.

I will use a rubber glove to remove pet hair from clothes, carpets and furniture.

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

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

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

Contamination prevents what is recyclable from being recycled. I will spend 10 minutes researching which materials are accepted by local haulers or drop stations in my community and recycle only those items.

I will find secondhand sources for my pet's water/food dishes, collars or leashes.

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

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 donate 10 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.