Kari Wouk

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.

I will hang-dry my laundry to use the sun as a natural bleach alternative, or use another natural bleach alternative.

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

I will talk to the owner or manager of a restaurant I frequent to request that they reduce their use of single-use and disposable plastics.

I will lobby my workplace to have reusable dishes and silverware in order to minimize disposables.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Single-use plastics are everywhere, but that wasn't always the case. I will spend at least 15 minutes learning about the history of single-use plastics and how it became ubiquitous in our daily lives.

I will advocate for alternatives to single use packaging at local grocery stores, markets, or work.

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

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.

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

I will find secondhand sources for my pet's water/food dishes, collars or leashes.

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

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

I will swap out 2 prepackaged snacks a day for fresh fruits or veggies.

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

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

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

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.

When it's time to buy more, I will replace my beauty products with refillable, sustainable, and/or DIY options.

I will use a reusable bottle and stop purchasing bottled water, saving 2 disposable plastic bottle(s) a day.

I will keep 3 plastic straw(s) out of the landfill per day by refusing straws or using my own reusable straw.