Margaret Marsalka

I will only use reusable containers instead of single-use plastic storage items (such as plastic wrap, single-use sandwich bags).

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

I will use reusable dishes and silverware when eating at work.

When possible, I will not use disposable bags when shopping, including produce bags.

Because many tea bags and most sleeves and sachets contain plastic, I will switch to using loose leaf tea.

I will use a reusable bottle and stop purchasing bottled water, saving 6 disposable plastic bottle(s) a day.

Wipes don't break down in sewer systems, but combine with fat to create massive clogs. I will find alternatives to using disposable wipes.

If traveling, I will reuse my old travel tubes to refill with my soaps or only bring bar soaps with me in a TSA-approved reusable quart-sized bag.

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

I will spend at least 5 minute(s) touring (virtually or in person) a local dump/transfer station, material recovery facility, and/or landfill to learn about our local waste and waste recovery streams.

I will spend at least 15 minutes researching the impacts of bioplastics and how to properly dispose of them in my city, and I will share this information with 3 friends, family, and/or colleagues.

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

Using the action resource links below, my family will spend 15 minutes learning about environmental justice, causes of environmental injustice, and how plastic waste disproportionately impacts already vulnerable communities.

I will spend 15 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 15 minutes educating my family on the basics of living a reduced/no-plastic lifestyle.

I will paint rooms in my home with low/no VOC or natural paints.

I will make my own cleaning products at home.

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

I will replace my pet's shampoo with an eco-friendly shampoo bar or refillable shampoo option.

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 15 minutes learning about the costs of fast fashion and begin trying to practice sustainable fashion in my own life.

I will spend at least 10 minutes researching how to properly dispose of bioplastics in my city and share this information with 3 friends, family, and/or colleagues.

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

When I need to replace my dish soap, I will switch to a bar or refillable option.

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

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

I will create or support a sharing economy with family, friends, and neighbors.