Barbara Luef

Each summer, I invite friends over for a BBQ. Typically I would use one way dishes, because I don't have enough plates and cutlery. I will refrain from doing it this year and instead, invest in a set of reuseable dishes (might be cheaper dishes/cutlery from Ikea). I know this will have an impact in the long run, because I keep on hosting these larger groups frequently and and I'm always unhappy about the amount of waste produced. So it will be a financial investment once, but it will last longer. (In the past I have used paper dishes and cups, and biodegradable cutlery, which is expensive anyways...)

I will replace my plastic toothbrush with a bamboo toothbrush.

If traveling, I will bring my own plastic free items (water bottle, grocery bags, collapsible food containers, utensils, straws, etc.) with me.

If traveling, I will bring my own airplane snacks and eat at local restaurants to avoid take-out containers.

I will make my own cleaning products at home.

If traveling, I will reuse my old travel tubes to refill with my soaps or only bring bar soaps with me in a TSA approved reusable quart sized bag.

I will either line my trash cans with repurposed newspaper or paper bags, or I will not line my trash cans at all.

I will pick up 1 piece(s) of litter each day.

I will purchase food items with the least amount of packaging.

I will only use reusable containers instead of single-use plastic storage items (such as plastic wrap, single-use sandwich bags).

I will give my pets natural alternatives to toys like femur bones and antlers, canvas, natural rubber, hemp, rope or cotton toys. Or I will make our own toys from recycled items found in our home!

When available, I will purchase clothing made with natural fibers, such as cotton, linen, or wool, rather than synthetic fibers.

I will purchase beauty products that are packaged in sustainable packaging.

I will purchase produce items without plastic packaging.

I will purchase refillable beauty products.

I will replace my soaps, shampoos, and conditions with either a bar or refillable option.