Plastic-Free Challenge

"I hope to become more mindful about everyday actions to reduce my environmental footprint, and encourage others to do the same!"

participant impact

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

COMPLETED 10
DAILY ACTIONS

I will purchase toothpaste powder or toothpaste tabs in plastic-free packaging.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

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

UNCOMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

REFLECTION QUESTION
Personal Care

Currently, most of the packaging for toothpaste is plastic. What has been your experience using plastic-free toothpaste options? How can you advocate for more alternatives through your purchasing power and influence in community?
Astou Dione 2/06/2026 8:12 AM

Using plastic-free toothpaste has been very effective and less messy than the toothpaste I usually use. I won’t lie, it took me a couple days to get use to it. My family has started to use it as well now!

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REFLECTION QUESTION
Plastics 101

What did you find out about your plastic consumption by using the calculator? What did or didn't surprise you?
Astou Dione 2/06/2026 8:08 AM

I found out that my plastic footprint is way smaller than the average in the United States, by 41.6kg! I hope to keep it that way!

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Astou Dione 2/06/2026 6:36 AM

It’s going well! I’ve been so much more mindful when doing daily tasks, and I’ve been suggesting to people around me that they should consider cleaning up their emails as well. :)

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