Mackenzie Smith

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

I will only use reusable containers instead of single-use plastic storage items (such as plastic wrap, single-use sandwich bags).

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

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

I will prepare my own pet treats to avoid plastic packaging.

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

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

Using the action resource links below, my family will spend 30 minutes learning about environmental justice, causes of environmental injustice, and how plastic waste disproportionately impacts already vulnerable communities.

Contamination prevents what is recyclable from being recycled. I will spend 30 minutes researching which materials are accepted by local haulers or drop stations in my community and recycle only those items.

Because many tea bags and most sleeves and sachets contain plastic, I will switch to using loose leaf tea.

If possible, I will avoid sending 1 disposable cup(s) to the landfill per day by using a reusable mug or bringing my own travel cup.

I will spend 60 minutes learning about the costs of fast fashion and begin trying to practice sustainable fashion in my own life.

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 host a watch party with friends and/or colleagues to watch and discuss a movie about plastics.

I will swap out 2 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.

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