Sara Valentine

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.

Washing synthetic fabrics releases tiny plastic fibers that end up in our waterways. I will install a washing machine filter or use a microplastic-catching device to capture microplastics before they leave my home — and I will share what I did and why with others to inspire more sustainable laundry habits.

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.

Simple swaps or strategies can inspire others—especially when shared publicly. I will post about a favorite plastic-free product or habit on social media to help normalize sustainable choices and show others that small changes are doable and worth trying.

Many of us recycle with good intentions, but most plastic doesn’t get recycled. I will spend 30 minutes learning why plastic recycling falls short and what really happens to plastic waste.

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.