Join the movement to refuse single-use plastics with Plastic Free EcoChallenge!

Coalition of North American Zoos and Aquariums

Plastic Free Ecochallenge 2019

July 1 - July 31, 2019

New York Aquarium Feed

BACK TO TEAM PAGE

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?

Bill Packer 8/01/2019 5:11 AM

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

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Food Takeout Pro

How could you mitigate issues that may arise if the restaurant does not want to let you use your own containers at first?

Bill Packer 8/01/2019 5:07 AM

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"!

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Community Sign a Petition

What is a plastic-related issue in your state/province?

J. Elizabeth Clark 7/31/2019 6:16 AM

Grocery shopping--bags and plastic containers!

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Lifestyle Complete a Waste Audit

What did you learn about the waste you create? Where can you reduce the most?

J. Elizabeth Clark 7/31/2019 6:16 AM

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 challenge is personal care items.

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Lifestyle Natural Fibers

What are the benefits (to people, animals, and the environment) of purchasing clothes made with natural fibers?

J. Elizabeth Clark 7/31/2019 6:14 AM

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.

Read More
Katie Manion 7/30/2019 1:48 PM

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. If you're at a WCS facility and want one, let me know and I'll interoffice to you (or walk it over if you're at the Bronx!)

If there's a lot of interest, I will send them to the people who have the most points in the Ecochallenge! I have one more that is almost done, so seven total.

If you want to make your own, let me know and I can share pattern links. They are all super easy!

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Food Advocate For More Food Packaging Options

Single use plastics have become normalized in our society to the point that most people don't see them as a problem. What would you say to a friend, colleague, or family member who may not understand why these disposables are an issue?

J. Elizabeth Clark 7/30/2019 10:57 AM

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 if it has any effect!

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Community Estimate Your Plastic Consumption and Go #PlasticNeutral

What did you find out about your plastic consumption by using the calculator? What did or didn't surprise you?

J. Elizabeth Clark 7/30/2019 10:55 AM

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!

Read More
J. Elizabeth Clark 7/30/2019 10:53 AM

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.

Read More
Stephanie Joseph 7/29/2019 7:08 PM

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.

Read More
- Krystina Jarvis 7/29/2019 7:57 PM
  
  I always put mine on the conveyer belt in front of the groceries - first thing on the belt, first thing the cashier sees!
  
  Read More