Kathleen Schubert

Many of us recycle with good intentions, but most plastic doesn’t get recycled. I will spend 60 minutes learning why plastic recycling falls short and what really happens to plastic waste.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Companies pay attention when customers speak up. I will email 15 businesses or brands I use, asking them to reduce plastic packaging, offer refills, or improve product sustainability.

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.

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 60 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.

Although I have reduced plastic in my purchases, I still use too many reusable plastics for food storage. I will use this challenge month to scout out non-plastic food storage options from thrift stores.

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.