Plastic Free Ecochallenge 2019

Coalition of North American Zoos and Aquariums

July 1 - July 31, 2019

Maryland Zoo Feed

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Reflection, encouragement, and relationship building are all important aspects of getting a new habit to stick.
Share thoughts, encourage others, and reinforce positive new habits on the Feed.

To get started, share “your why.” Why did you join the challenge and choose the actions you did?

Maggie Shulka 8/05/2019 5:49 PM

My actions were not overly challenging, but if everyone did their part we could make a big difference for our future generations. It scares me to think how we may be leaving this planet.

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Maggie Shulka 8/05/2019 5:46 PM

I learned that if everyone did their part, we could make a big difference for future generations.

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REFLECTION QUESTION
Food Shop the Bulk Bins

How has buying bulk impacted the quality of the food you receive? Why do you think Western society relies more on prepackaged foods rather than buying in bulk?

Mike Sharp 8/01/2019 11:09 AM

Buying in bulk AND not using the store's provided plastic bags means planning. Something our society needs to do a better job of in general. Planning leads to efficiency and less waste across the board.

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Mary Dobrzynski 8/01/2019 4:51 AM

The Challenge is over. Its It's sad to see it end as it was an integral part of my morning routine. My takeaway is that "small plastic free practices will lead to a sustainable lifestyle change." I thoroughly enjoyed the Challenge🤗🦋

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Matthew Bronson 7/31/2019 10:02 PM

Just ate at a restaurant that used all compostable plates, cups, utensils, etc and recycled out composted all waste. Such a simple way to make an improvement and get people to start thinking differently.

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CANDICE MITCHELL 7/31/2019 8:34 PM

A co-worker was so inspired by me, she bought me metal straws and bought them for herself.

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Barbara Lazar 7/31/2019 8:00 PM

I’m definitely more aware of my plastic usage and how I can make a difference. I still have a way to go and intend to keep working on it. I now carry around my own straw and have ordered a SodaStream to eliminate buying more plastic bottles. This was an effective challenge for me. Thanks!

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Trish Johns 7/31/2019 6:35 PM

July went by so fast, can’t wait until the next challenge!!

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Barbara Clark 7/31/2019 5:55 PM

Participating in the Ecochallenge the last month has been a great experience. I’ve definitely developed some habits I will continue and have a different perspective on the issue of plastic waste, as well as disposal and processing of other waste sent to landfills. I’d like to thank the Maryland Zoo for inviting me to participate.

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REFLECTION QUESTION
Food Buy Unpackaged Produce

Why do you think these produce products started amassing so much plastic packaging? Who is the plastic packaging really serving -- the consumer, the producer, or someone else?

Sinclair Boggs 7/31/2019 3:43 PM

Unfortunately, I think consumers like packaging for convenience , perceived cleanliness, etc. The only good news is that if that’s true consumers can help change the tide to be plastic free!

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