CSUF Sustainability

I joined the challenge because I wanted to quantify my plastic usage and expand my understanding of how much our daily lives involve plastic and styrofoam; it is a staggering amount. 

Styrofoam is cheap to produce, transport, and serve. It is also difficult to break down and find recycling centers that accept styrofoam. Due to its low cost, low-income areas are easy targets for it's daily use.  

Produce brought from the markets is where I tend to use single-use plastics most. I have replaced them with reusable and sustainably sourced produce/fruit bags. 

I like using white vinegar as an overall natural cleaner around the apartment. I use it on the coffee maker, countertops, and floors. 

There has been a stigma behind the safety of steel razors and the thought of more blades equating to a better shave. But I have learned that not only do steel razors have a better shave and are safe to use, but they are easier to keep clean, more hygienic than disposables, and less irritating on my skin.

This was a difficult task. Traveling is always a race with the clock. Finding food on the go usually means picking up something to eat at a market or store, and the quickest is usually wrapped in plastic. In the future, planning will entail my itinerary, luggage, to-go meals, and snacks. 

Increased patience. Tending and monitoring my garden helps me realize the effort and resources needed to produce victuals. As well, raising a garden provides resources for the micro-environment in my community, from pollinators to soil microbes to habitat for insects, small mammals, reptiles, and birds; the benefits extend past my table!  

We finally finished our box of dryer sheets and so I've moved on to wool dryer balls. They reduce waste and are a natural way to dry loads. 

We enjoy eating fruit after a meal. We like to visit farmers' markets and buy whatever is in season. Right now, we've been enjoying stone fruits like peaches and cherries. 

I've loved using my glass bento containers lately for lunches! I can pack different goodies like salads and sandwiches in the same box.