Mary Kopczynski

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

I will keep 1 plastic cutlery out of the landfill per day by using my own reusable cutlery.

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.