Kristina Merola

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 purchase food items with the least amount of packaging.

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

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 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.

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 spend 60 minutes educating my family on the basics of living a reduced/no-plastic lifestyle.

I will spend 60 minutes finding out where landfills and/or toxic waste sites are situated in my region and which communities are most impacted by these sites.

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

Although a long-standing festive tradition, balloons are harmful for animals and the environment. I will spend 60 learning about the dangers of balloons and find eco-friendly alternatives to use instead.

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

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

I will replace 10 plastic bottles with glass or stainless steel alternatives.

I will give up gum or choose gum made from chicle or other plastic-free gum bases.

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

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 2 friends, family, and/or colleagues.

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 replace my pet's shampoo with an eco-friendly shampoo bar or refillable shampoo option.

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