Virginia Wright-Placeres

Plastics can leach harmful chemicals into food, water, and the air we breathe. I will spend 15 minutes learning about the health impacts of plastic exposure and explore safer swaps — like choosing glass or stainless steel over plastic for food storage and drinking water.

Understanding the origins of plastic helps us see its environmental impact more clearly. I will spend 15 minutes learning how plastic is made — from fossil fuels to finished product — and reflect on how that knowledge influences my choices.

Those recycling numbers and symbols can be confusing. I will spend 15 minutes learning what different plastic labels mean, including what can and can’t be recycled, to make more informed choices when I shop.

Many of us recycle with good intentions, but most plastic doesn’t get recycled. I will spend 15 minutes learning why plastic recycling falls short and what really happens to plastic waste.

Not all “eco-friendly” plastics are created equal. I will spend 15 minutes exploring the differences between bioplastics, compostable plastics, and recyclable plastics—and what happens to each at the end of its life.

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.

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.