Debbi Stone

Positive reinforcement goes a long way in fostering sustainable change. I will celebrate someone’s effort to reduce plastic — whether big or small — by acknowledging their success in the feed or on social media and encouraging them to keep going.

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.

Every reusable cup, plate, or utensil at work makes a difference. I will talk with my team or leadership about switching to reusable products in shared spaces like break rooms or kitchens.

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.

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 10 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.

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.

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.

Sharing ideas helps us stay motivated and discover new ways to take action. I will share ideas with friends or family members about ways we each reduce plastic in our lives.

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.

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.

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.

Reusables only help if we use them! I will set up a system that helps me remember my reusable bags, bottles, containers, or utensils — whether that means keeping them by the door, in my car, or in my bag.

Food businesses are major sources of single-use plastic. I will talk to a local café, food truck, or restaurant about allowing reusable containers, more sustainable materials, or cutting down on unnecessary plastic packaging.

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.

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.

Some nonprofits are leading the charge to change policies and corporate practices. I will donate to an organization working to reduce plastic at the source and promote systemic solutions for a healthier planet.