Sarah DeWolf

I will read through the three emails each week to learn more about plastic and get ideas on how to use less.

The numbers #1-7 on plastics tell us a lot and can help us be better recyclers. I will learn more about what the symbols on plastics mean.

I will learn more about the issues with plastics by picking up one of the books recommended by Hennepin County Library.

I will complete a plastic consumption calculator to learn about my plastic footprint.

Contamination makes the recycling process more difficult. I will review which materials are accepted by local haulers or drop stations in my county and recycle only those items. 

I will learn about what different descriptions and marketing terms mean when used on plastics.

I will avoid buying toxic plastics, including polyvinyl, polystyrene and polycarbonate (#3,#6 and #7).

I will purchase clothing made with natural fibers, such as cotton, linen, or wool, rather than synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, acrylic or spandex. Try prioritizing buying used clothing before buying new.

I will wash my clothing in cold water and hang it to dry to reduce the amount of microplastic shedding and to prolong the life of my garments.

I will buy secondhand goods to reduce the demand for new plastic products and avoid packaging.