I scored really low on my plastic footprint which feel really good! I've been mindful of my plastic consumption for many years now so it's nice to see it quantified in this way. I'll always keep improving and tweaking but I'm doing what I can.

I mentioned how the chasing arrows symbol is often only put on products to help sell them when in reality those items may not be recyclable. I tried to emphasize a need to refuse single serve plastics and focusing on reusable items. This did spark interest with some of my friends who do want to be more aware of their family's footprint

What surprised me the most was how plastic exposure isn’t just about pollution—it’s also directly affecting our health. I didn’t realize how chemicals like BPA and microplastics can get into our food, especially when we use plastic containers to store or reheat meals. That hit home for me, because in New Orleans, food is such a big part of our culture. We cook, we share, we eat leftovers—and I definitely grew up putting gumbo or red beans in whatever container was around without thinking twice.

Honestly, learning about the different types of eco-friendly plastics made me realize how much of “sustainability” is really just marketing. Something can be labeled “bioplastic” or “compostable,” but that doesn’t always mean it’s actually better for the environment—especially if our local systems can’t process it. In New Orleans, most bioplastics aren’t accepted through curbside recycling, and the city doesn’t currently offer municipal compost pickup.

A few friends and I have our own version of a clothing swap where we send each other packages of clothes, books, trinkets and include any items we feel they would like and enjoy.

I have two boxes ready to send to a friend in CA and one in NYC :) just need to write a couple of notes and then it’s off to the post office!!

With plastic leaching into our food and water sources from plastic production and waste, we really need to be aware of the supply and demand for these products. If we lessen the demand for these products by refusing, reducing, and reusing what we can, then the producers will be motivated to limit their production.

Understanding the origin of plastic helps me understand it's negative environmental impact even before and after it is considered to be a plastic product. The original method, made from plants, still has some negative impact on the plants it is made from.