Kelsey Helms

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.

Understanding my plastic footprint is a powerful first step toward making change. I will complete a short online plastic calculator, like the one from rePurpose Global, to estimate my annual plastic use and explore ways to reduce it.

Reducing plastic can be easier — and more fun — when shared. I will plan and prepare a meal with friends or family that minimizes single-use packaging and plastic waste.

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.

Change is more powerful when it’s collective. I will ask 1 friends, colleagues, or groups to contact elected officials, school boards, or businesses to support policies or practices that reduce plastic waste.

Not all “eco-friendly” plastics are created equal. I will spend 10 minutes exploring the differences between bioplastics, compostable plastics, and recyclable plastics—and what happens to each at the end of its life.

Awareness is the first step toward change. I’ll track how much plastic I use in a day (or week), paying attention to packaging, food containers, and single-use items. I’ll reflect on what surprised me most and what I could do differently.

Washing synthetic fabrics releases tiny plastic fibers that end up in our waterways. I will install a washing machine filter or use a microplastic-catching device to capture microplastics before they leave my home — and I will share what I did and why with others to inspire more sustainable laundry habits.

Giving can be an act of change and inspiration. I will give a thoughtful, plastic-free or plastic-reducing gift — like a reusable bag, bottle, or bar soap — to someone in my life and share why I chose it.

My voice can influence change. I will find out when local meetings or comment periods are happening and speak up about plastic waste or pollution in my community. Whether it’s a public forum or written comment, I’ll share my concerns to help advance more sustainable practices and policies.

Plastics can leach harmful chemicals into food, water, and the air we breathe. I will spend 10 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.

Many of us recycle with good intentions, but most plastic doesn’t get recycled. I will spend 10 minutes learning why plastic recycling falls short and what really happens to plastic waste.

Food packaging is a major source of plastic. I will pack a lunch with little or no plastic and use it as a conversation starter with coworkers, classmates, or friends to share tips and inspire change.

Seeing where waste goes can change how we think about what we throw away. I will visit a local facility to learn more about the waste stream in my community and share what I learn with others and in the feed.

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.

Visual cues can inspire action in shared spaces. I will place a friendly sign or reminder in a common area — like a kitchen, bathroom, or office — to encourage less plastic use and spark conversation. I’ll include a clear, specific call to action so people know exactly how to take the next step.

Clear, accessible information makes it easier for others to take action. I will create or share a simple guide with tips, resources, or local options to help people in my community, organization, or group reduce plastic use.

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.

Art can shift mindsets and spark movements. I will support a local or global artist using their work to raise awareness about plastic pollution — by purchasing, promoting, or sharing their art and message.

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 15 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.

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.

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.