Kate McMonagle

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 actions are more powerful when we take them together. I will invite someone to join the Ecochallenge with me so we can learn and take action together.

Policy is one of the most powerful tools for reducing plastic waste at scale. I will spend 5 minutes learning about current or proposed plastic-related policies, such as bans on single-use plastics or extended producer responsibility laws, to better understand how systems can change.

People are more likely to take action when someone they trust makes a recommendation. I will share a documentary, podcast, or article that helped me understand the impact of plastic to spark curiosity, conversation, and action in others.

Businesses take notice when we show support for their sustainable choices—and so do our friends and neighbors. I will write a positive review for and personally recommend a business that offers low-plastic or refillable options to help others discover it and demonstrate that sustainability is valued by customers.

Recycling rules vary by location. I’ll spend 5 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.