Join the movement to refuse single-use plastics with Plastic Free Ecochallenge!

Coalition of North American Zoos and Aquariums

Plastic Free Ecochallenge 2024

July 1 - July 31, 2024

NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island Feed

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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
Kitchen

Why do you chew gum? What habits could replace and meet your reasons for chewing gum?
Abbey Vinson 7/31/2024 8:49 PM
I chew gum for a variety of reasons. Sometimes I need it to freshen my breath, but most of the time, it’s a hands free fidget. It helps me focus and feel calm. It also helps me combat overeating. I plan to try some eco gum alternatives because the thought of chewing on plastic anymore makes me sick.

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REFLECTION QUESTION
Kitchen

Making veggie broth from scraps doesn't just reduce waste, it can also save you a ton of money! What are some of the ways you use veggie broth in your kitchen?
Abbey Vinson 7/31/2024 8:44 PM
I don’t currently use broth much, which is why I was so excited to find the article that gave ideas and recipes!

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REFLECTION QUESTION
Community

What have you noticed about your mental and/or physical health while going on daily walks? How has it affected other areas of your life?
Abbey Vinson 7/31/2024 8:41 PM
Unsurprisingly, l Feel noticeably much better when I go for a walk or spend time outside. I know this!!! Yet I rarely make enough time to do it. I’m going to continue to try to make this change after July ends.

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REFLECTION QUESTION
Community

How does the act of picking up litter connect you more to your community?
Abbey Vinson 7/31/2024 8:37 PM
It kind of feels like caring for a loved one or a pet. By investing in the cleanliness and wellbeing of my neighborhood, my neighborhood felt more ‘mine’. It’s also kind of disgustingly fascinating to see what kinds of products the people who live near me use. Apparently I live near a lot of smokers.

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REFLECTION QUESTION
Community

Landfills and recycling centers tell us a lot about our communities and purchasing habits. What did you glean from your tour?
Taylor McConnell 7/31/2024 10:37 AM
My recycling center has many modern-day electronics

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REFLECTION QUESTION
Bedroom

The simple act of hang drying your laundry can be an act of mindfulness. Where else in your daily routine can you make mindfulness a practice?
Taylor McConnell 7/31/2024 10:36 AM
I found taking the time to set laundry out, also allows for mindfulness in the surrounding environment. You look to see the wind strength, focus on the weather, and are required to return.

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REFLECTION QUESTION
Bedroom

Fast fashion depends on consumers buying into constantly changing trends, only wearing their clothes a handful of times, then tossing and buying more. How can you combat those influences to create a more sustainable wardrobe you'll love, value, and care for long-term?
Taylor McConnell 7/31/2024 10:35 AM
Having cloths go through stages:

Work wardrobe

Every-day wardrobe

Can-get-dirty wardrobe
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REFLECTION QUESTION
Bedroom

What are the benefits (to people, animals, and the environment) of purchasing clothes made with natural fibers?
Taylor McConnell 7/31/2024 10:33 AM
From my findings, many companies working with natural fibers, also had a fair-trade focus

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REFLECTION QUESTION
Bathroom

What did you learn by making your own cleaning products? What is the biggest difference in making vs buying?
Taylor McConnell 7/31/2024 10:32 AM
I learned just how 2-3 simple ingredients is enough to tackle some larger messes

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Taylor McConnell 7/31/2024 10:32 AM
Found a plastic free deodorant option. While it works well and is easy to apply, it is costly and does not last as long.

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