Janice Lawrence

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

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

I will replace my disposable razors with steel razors.

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

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

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

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

I will spend 30 minutes learning about the costs of fast fashion and begin trying to practice sustainable fashion in my own life.

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

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.

The chasing arrows symbol we associate with recycling doesn't always actually mean something is recyclable. I will spend at least 30 minutes learning the different meanings the symbol can have.

Although a long-standing festive tradition, balloons are harmful for animals and the environment. I will spend 30 learning about the dangers of balloons and find eco-friendly alternatives to use instead.

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 10 friends, family, and/or colleagues.

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.