New York Aquarium

I think anytime we are thoughtful about these topics, is a win for the planet.  Let's keep the dialogue going!

I think this is a great opportunity to explain why this is a win / win /win. They reduce their costs since they don't have to stock containers, I win because I don't have to have more to throw away and the planet wins because we "reduce" & "reuse"!  

Grocery shopping--bags and plastic containers!

I think as a household, we can continue to work on food and waste connected to shopping. We're making our own yogurt. We're going to make our own salad dressing. We gave up cherry tomatoes if they come in plastic. I feel like once we have the kitchen conquered, then we can move onto other areas of waste. In particular, I think our next...

Obviously we are learning about the effects of micro plastics in our clothing and how they are moving into the water. Overall, when possible, I do think natural fibers are best. 

I have been working on handmade reusable produce bags to replace the plastic ones that you get at the store. They're all pretty lightweight, some more than others, but you could also take the produce out of the bag if you're somewhere where you pay for it by weight.  A couple of them are acrylic yarn, but most are either 100% or a cotton blend....

I have been pointing out the connection between healthy oceans and lessening plastic consumption. Most everyone I know is an ocean lover, so that has been a good “sell.” I do have to say, however, I’m not sure how well my attempts to convince local businesses went. I approached the grocery store, our natural food store, and our CSA. We’ll see...

I was surprised at how much plastic I use, even when I am so actively trying to avoid it. Plastic really is everywhere and is hard to avoid. I was surprised at the places it snuck in! 

I’m really sad that our challenge is almost at the end! Checking in, doing actions, and reflecting in community have made for a very powerful experience. 

I brought my own bags with me to the store today but the cashier moved so fast, he had everything bagged before I pulled my reusable one out. Fail.