Jennifer Lande

Although a long-standing festive tradition, balloons are harmful for animals and the environment. I will spend 5 learning about the dangers of balloons and find eco-friendly alternatives to use instead.

If possible, I will avoid sending 2 disposable cup(s) to the landfill per day by using a reusable mug or bringing my own travel cup.

I will talk to the owner or manager of a restaurant I frequent to request that they reduce their use of single-use and disposable plastics.

I will use a reusable bottle and stop purchasing bottled water, saving 8 disposable plastic bottle(s) a day.

Using the action resource links below, my family will spend 10 minutes learning about environmental justice, causes of environmental injustice, and how plastic waste disproportionately impacts already vulnerable communities.

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

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

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

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

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 advocate for alternatives to single use packaging at local grocery stores, markets, or work.

I will lobby my workplace to have reusable dishes and silverware in order to minimize disposables.

I will spend 5 minutes educating my family on the basics of living a reduced/no-plastic lifestyle.

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

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

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

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 conduct a waste audit - including recyclables and compost - to understand how much waste I create and where I can reduce the most.

I will keep 10 plastic cutlery out of the landfill per day by using my own reusable cutlery.

I will keep 4 plastic straw(s) out of the landfill per day by refusing straws or using my own reusable straw.

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

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

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

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

I will spend at least 30 minute(s) touring (virtually or in person) a local dump/transfer station, material recovery facility, and/or landfill to learn about our local waste and waste recovery streams.