Shirley Macdonald

Understanding the origins of plastic helps us see its environmental impact more clearly. I will spend 5 minutes learning how plastic is made — from fossil fuels to finished product — and reflect on how that knowledge influences my choices.

Not all “eco-friendly” plastics are created equal. I will spend 4 minutes exploring the differences between bioplastics, compostable plastics, and recyclable plastics—and what happens to each at the end of its life.

Plastics can leach harmful chemicals into food, water, and the air we breathe. I will spend 4 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 4 minutes learning what different plastic labels mean, including what can and can’t be recycled, to make more informed choices when I shop.

Recycling rules vary by location. I’ll spend 4 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.

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.

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 4 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.