Monterey Bay Aquarium

Understanding the origins of plastic helps us see its environmental impact more clearly. I will spend 15 minutes learning how plastic is made — from fossil fuels to finished product — and reflect on how that knowledge influences my choices.

Food businesses are major sources of single-use plastic. I will talk to a local café, food truck, or restaurant about allowing reusable containers, more sustainable materials, or cutting down on unnecessary plastic packaging.

Plastics can leach harmful chemicals into food, water, and the air we breathe. I will spend 15 minutes learning about the health impacts of plastic exposure and explore safer swaps — like choosing glass or stainless steel over plastic for food storage and drinking water.

Those recycling numbers and symbols can be confusing. I will spend 15 minutes learning what different plastic labels mean, including what can and can’t be recycled, to make more informed choices when I shop.

Not all “eco-friendly” plastics are created equal. I will spend 5 minutes exploring the differences between bioplastics, compostable plastics, and recyclable plastics—and what happens to each at the end of its life.

Recycling rules vary by location. I’ll spend 10 minutes learning which plastics my local program accepts. This helps me avoid “wishcycling” — tossing items in the bin and hoping they’ll be recycled, even if they aren’t.

Even small swaps can add up to big impact. I will replace one product I use regularly — like soap, cleaning spray, or snacks — with a refillable or plastic-free version.

Where we spend our money shapes the market. I will support a business that offers plastic-free, low-waste, or refillable products or services.

Having reusables ready and integrated into your daily routine can help you avoid single-use plastic while out and about. I will put together a kit with items like a mug, water bottle, utensils, or tote bag to take with me when I leave the house.

Change starts at home. I will create a fun challenge with my household — like using no single-use plastic for a day or swapping out a product — to make plastic reduction a shared goal.

Understanding what types of plastic show up most can inspire smarter solutions. I will organize or take part in a group plastic audit to track what’s being used and start a conversation about alternatives.

Big changes often begin with one bold conversation. I will bring up the topic of reducing plastic at school, work, or in a group I’m part of, planting the seed for collective action.

Plastic pollution is visible in many communities. I will take part in or organize a cleanup event to remove litter, raise awareness, and spark conversations about how plastic ends up in our environment.

Events are powerful moments to inspire change. I will include a brief message, resource, or tip about reducing plastic at a meeting, celebration, or community gathering I attend or help organize.

Advocacy campaigns can drive real change by amplifying public support. I will find and support a campaign — through a donation, signature, or share — that’s working to reduce plastic pollution or address the climate impacts of plastic.