As we wrap up this year's Plastic Free challenge, it's important to remember that we are in a very privileged position to even be entering into the conversation about reducing our impact on the planet. Many people around the world do not have the economic stability to make some of the choices we do. Until there is economic equality, global-scale changes are an unrealistic expectation. That's not to say it's hopeless! Individual actions added together can make a huge impact :)
I always appreciate that when someone asks Jane Goodall how we can protect the planet her #1 response is that we need to end poverty. And there's more than enough money in the world to make it happen - we just need to be brave enough to completely disrupt the status quo and make it happen.
I was inspired by our visit to the local library to try and take advantage of other free community spaces. As my kiddo gets more high energy exploring our local playgrounds and parks instead of buying new toys for our home is a great way to reduce our carbon footprint and keep them entertained.
Not quite free, but we went to a state park on Sunday and other than the $7 for parking we spent a few hours just exploring the space and appreciating nature. We had a blast!
As you were learning about greenwashing, were there any companies you previously supported that you now think might be greenwashing us? How can you tell?
I watched a video from a EU youtuber and thought about the way that standards for greenwashing could be different in different countries. EU countries have more laws that protect the environment than the US and minimum legal standards in the EU might be seen as quite progressive in our country.
A benefit of reducing my purchases of stuff if that I have noticed I am more aware and appreciative of the generosity of others sharing items they may no longer need.
Remember to go back and check in for the actions you completed on past days but forgot to login . The Ecochallenge platform lets you check in retroactively for any previous days until midnight on July 31st. Don't miss out on logging your progress and sharing your impact!
By bringing your own bag, you can avoid using disposable plastic bags and help reduce pollution. It's a small change that makes a big difference for our planet. Let's shop sustainably!
Also, you can show off your ZooTampa recycled tote bag that you got when you joined the ZT team