Brandywine Zoo 2025

I've given out a number of gifts as captain of my team. Each week during the challenge I create mini-challenges to determine a winner. For example, whoever has the most points after the first week or whoever is most improved in the middle of the month. I've gifted a canvas garden tote, tin of hand lotion, and glass spray bottle so far....

I learned about and ultimately donated to Plastic Bank. I didn't know about it until this ecochallenge and think it's a great company. Ironically, when watching the documentary Plastic Earth with some coworkers later, I recognized it in a segment feature. It taught me a bit more and put faces to the name.

I was disappointed to come up empty when searching "zero waste businesses, lending libraries, bulk food stores, and repair cafes" around me. This was a simple internet search, and as I don't have social media options, will have to require more digging and word of mouth. So, I'll ask around and see what I find out! Thankfully, I had...

I proudly bought Who Gives a Crap toilet paper! Not only is it made with 100% recycled fibers, but they wrap each roll in paper and ship in a cardboard box. Zero plastic involved...except the card I used to pay for it :D Plus they donate HALF the proceeds to organizations that provide clean water and sanitation services to those without. I've...

By growing our own veggies and herbs, we don't frequent the produce section as much, therefore reducing the plastic provided bags for produce. Below is cucumbers, turning them into pickles, and lemon basil, just to name a few.

As I'm learning more in order to start composting, I learned some "compostable" items can only be composted at larger facilities, not in backyard compost. This feels like greenwashing, because while yes the item isnt made of plastic, it will still likely end up in a landfill. There has to be a better solution!

I found the challenges this year to be frustrating. I'm proud of the steps I already take to reduce my plastic use, but could not use them as challenges, and was left with educating and advocating challenges that are FAR out of my comfort zone. I was also unable to create my own challenge until very late in the month, but at least was able to...

I start the day with yogurt that comes packaged in plastic. Aside from making my own, how can I avoid it?

It is almost impossible to eat a meal completely untouched by plastic, unless you grow your own vegetables, raise your own meat , and butcher it!. Drinking is much easier, as water, milk and wine are usually not packaged in plastic

So I had ketchup on my shopping list the other day and decided I would buy good ol' Heinz in the glass bottle. Well, none could be found! Heinz was all plastic, and so was every other option. I was mad and sad at the same time. After a little search on whether glass is even an option anymore, it is but primarily for restaurants, I came across...