Skip to main content

Modal Title

Modal Description

Welcome to Plastic Free Ecochallenge 2022!

Watch the short video below to learn the basics.
You'll be an Plastic Free Ecochallenge 2022 expert in no time!

Coalition of North American Zoos and Aquariums
Plastic Free Ecochallenge 2022
July 1 - July 31, 2022
Mike Caruso's avatar

Mike Caruso

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

"Hello, my name is Mike. I have always had a passion for animals and nature ever since I was young. I am excited to be a part of this team and to have an impact on protecting the environment."

POINTS TOTAL

  • 0 TODAY
  • 0 THIS WEEK
  • 102 TOTAL

participant impact

  • UP TO
    2.0
    disposable cups
    not sent to the landfill

Mike's actions

Food

Use a Reusable Mug

If possible, I will avoid sending 2 disposable cup(s) to the landfill per day by using a reusable mug or bringing my own travel cup.

COMPLETED 1
DAILY ACTION

Community

Say No to Styrofoam

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.

COMPLETED 0
DAILY ACTIONS

Food

Better Gum

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

COMPLETED 1
DAILY ACTION

Participant Feed

Reflection, encouragement, and relationship building are all important aspects of getting a new habit to stick.
Share thoughts, encourage others, and reinforce positive new habits on the Feed.

To get started, share “your why.” Why did you join the challenge and choose the actions you did?

  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Community
    How might styrofoam be an environmental justice and/or environmental racism issue in your community?
    Mike Caruso's avatar
    Mike Caruso 7/06/2022 1:14 PM
    The breakdown of styrofoam releases chemicals which can find their way into waterways and cause dangerous levels of pollution. It causes issues to both animals and humans as the chemicals continue to be released.
    Read More
  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Food
    Why do you chew gum? What habits could replace and meet your reasons for chewing gum?
    Mike Caruso's avatar
    Mike Caruso 7/05/2022 9:29 PM
    I would chew gum as a way for me to relax any nerves I might have throughout the day. I would sometimes feel very self-conscious when chewing gum, feeling like I was chewing too loud or inappropriately (too many bubbles, etc.). A better habit to replace gum chewing is to find other ways to occupy my mind, mainly by trying to gather my thoughts instead of relying on gum as a means of relaxation, when in reality it would create unnecessary added stress.
    Read More