Michelle Borchard

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 visit the rePurpose website, complete the 3-minute plastic consumption calculator, and explore how I can reBalance my annual plastic footprint.

Contamination prevents what is recyclable from being recycled. I will spend 10 minutes researching which materials are accepted by local haulers or drop stations in my community and recycle only those items.

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 prepare my own pet treats to avoid plastic packaging.

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

I will spend 10 minutes learning about the costs of fast fashion and begin trying to practice sustainable fashion in my own life.

I will spend 10 minutes learning about the costs of fast fashion and begin trying to practice sustainable fashion in my own life.

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

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

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

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 spend 10 minutes educating my family on the basics of living a reduced/no-plastic lifestyle.

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