Sharon Cook

Understanding the origins of plastic helps us see its environmental impact more clearly. I will spend 30 minutes learning how plastic is made — from fossil fuels to finished product — and reflect on how that knowledge influences my choices.

Recycling rules vary by location. I’ll spend 30 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.

Many of us recycle with good intentions, but most plastic doesn’t get recycled. I will spend 30 minutes learning why plastic recycling falls short and what really happens to plastic waste.

Our grocery habits are one of the biggest sources of single-use plastic, from packaging on produce to plastic bags and containers. I will spend 5 minutes researching low-plastic shopping strategies and make a list of things to look for or do differently the next time I go to the store.