Jennifer Lord

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

If at all possible, I will not accept any disposable bags when making purchases, including produce bags.

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 replace my pet's shampoo with an eco-friendly shampoo bar.

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!

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

I will watch a documentary film about waste with family and friends and talk about what we learned.

I will either line my trash cans with repurposed newspaper or paper bags, or I will not line my trash cans at all.

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 purchase beauty products that are packaged in sustainable packaging.

I will replace my disposable razors with steel razors.

I will purchase toothpaste in an aluminum tube or in a glass jar or make my own!

I will use deodorant either from a bar or a jar or I will make my own.

I will replace my soaps, shampoos, and conditioners with either a bar or refillable option.

I will avoid buying toxic plastics, including polycarbonate, polystyrene and polyvinyl.

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

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 purchase produce items without plastic packaging, making sure to wash them well before using them.

I will purchase food items with the least amount of packaging.

I will keep 2 plastic straw(s) out of the landfill per day by refusing straws or using my own glass/metal straw.

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

I will pick up 5 piece(s) of litter each day.

I will host or participate in a beach, highway, river, or other cleanup effort in my community that follows the CDC’s current guidelines for prevention of disease transfer.