Kaitlyn McCarthy

I will replace dryer sheets with a reusable alternative or use nothing at all.

I will give up gum or choose gum made from chicle or other plastic-free gum bases.

I will avoid 2 plastic bags each shopping trip by not bagging my produce or using reusable produce bags.

I will plan an herb or vegetable garden for next year at my home, workplace, or community garden.

MNimize works to reduce single-use plastic at food service businesses. I will visit a participating location or tell a business I frequent about the resources available to them.

I will use a reusable lint brush or vacuum to remove pet hair from clothes, carpets, and furniture.

I will ditch the sponge and use a reusable or compostable option such as a brush, scrubber or dishrag instead.

I will visit a co-op or zero waste store to check out my local options for bulk products and plastic-free items.

I will cut down the miles I drive to reduce microplastic shedding from tires. Alternatives include riding public transit, walking, biking, carpooling and combining trips.

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.