Stacey Stamps

Many of us recycle with good intentions, but most plastic doesn’t get recycled. I will spend 5 minutes learning why plastic recycling falls short and what really happens to plastic waste.

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.

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.

Those recycling numbers and symbols can be confusing. I will spend 10 minutes learning what different plastic labels mean, including what can and can’t be recycled, to make more informed choices when I shop.

Widespread change starts with local action and community innovation. I will spend 10 minutes learning about programs or initiatives in my area that reduce plastic use, such as third-party sanitization services, repair cafes, food gleaning, lending libraries, bulk or thrift stores, bans on single-use items, or zero-waste businesses.

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.

Buying recycled or secondhand products helps close the loop and reduces demand for new plastic. I will look for and purchase a product made from recycled materials or choose a secondhand option the next time I shop to keep valuable resources in use longer.

Where we spend our money shapes the market. I will support a business that offers plastic-free, low-waste, or refillable products or services.

Transforming a space together can build momentum and spark conversation. I will work with someone else to remove or replace plastics in one room of our home or work place, such as the kitchen, lunch room, or bathroom.

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.

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.

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.

Even the best intentions can be forgotten in the rush of daily life. I will create a system — like a note on the door or a checklist — to help me and others in my household remember to grab our reusables before we go.

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.

Understanding the origins of plastic helps us see its environmental impact more clearly. I will spend 10 minutes learning how plastic is made — from fossil fuels to finished product — and reflect on how that knowledge influences my choices.

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.

Learning or sharing repair skills can keep useful items in use and out of the landfill. I will teach or learn a skill to extend the life of a product — like sewing, electronic repair, or furniture restoration — and share what I did with my community, workplace, or group to encourage others to do the same.