Charlotte Ward

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

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 purchase food items with the least amount of packaging.

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

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

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.

If traveling, I will bring my own snacks and meals in my own containers to avoid the waste of take-out containers.

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

I will swap out 10 prepackaged snacks a day for fresh fruits or veggies.

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

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

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

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

I will not buy anything except items required for health and safety.

The chasing arrows symbol we associate with recycling doesn't always actually mean something is recyclable. I will spend at least 10 minutes learning the different meanings the symbol can have.

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

Although a long-standing festive tradition, balloons are harmful for animals and the environment. I will spend 10 learning about the dangers of balloons and find eco-friendly alternatives to use instead.

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 pick up 2 piece(s) of litter each day.