April VanZant

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 try new recipe(s) or food preparation method(s) each day, such as canning, pickling, making yogurt, or baking granola bars or bread.

I will give my pets natural alternatives to toys like femur bones and antlers, canvas, natural rubber, hemp, rope or cotton toys. Or make our own toys from recycled items found in our home!

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

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

I will replace my disposable razors with steel razors.

I will swap out my single use plastic bags for a pooper-scooper.

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.

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 50 piece(s) of litter each day.

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

If possible, I will avoid sending 10 disposable cup(s) to the landfill per day by using a reusable mug or bringing my own travel cup.

I will use a reusable bottle and stop purchasing bottled water, saving 5 disposable plastic bottle(s) a day.

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 switch to a plastic-free toothpaste — whether purchased or DIY'd.

I will replace my soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and lotions with sustainable, unpackaged, or refillable options.

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

I will swap out my cat's litter for sawdust, mulch, or dirt with baking soda.

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

I will spend 30 minutes educating my family on the basics of living a reduced/no-plastic lifestyle.

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