Erin Schumacher

Took out all the recycling and compostables out last night as Thursday is our trash pickup day. Typically, we don't have much actual trash but lots of recycling. I've signed up for do not mail lists, but they don't work and I am inundated with mail that goes straight in the recycling. Same with my elderly parents I have put them both on do no mail lists and paid the fee, but they still get inundated with mail for charities and catalogs. I try to reduce food waste but it's hard when you forget what you have or don't eat it all right away.

Bought a salad that came with a plastic fork which I did not use I left in breakroom for someone else and used my own fork.

Brought paper bags with handles from my house as well as my parents' house to a co-worker who is collecting paper bags for a food pantry she volunteers at.

Sent bag of clothes and accessories from my parent's house to Trashie who donate or recycle clothes and textiles.

It feels frustrating to try to make a difference when my own government is responsible for so many environmental issues weaking the EPA and relying dependent on fossil fuels and unraveling so many conservation efforts. I drive around and see trash everywhere I go and some new fad or doo dad that requires more waste.
Does it matter if I wash with a natural loofah if how we warm our homes is dependent on coal and to add insult to injury they call it "clean burning coal" talk the Victorian's in London and ask them how clean coal was?

Went shopping recycled plastic bags and did not buy a lot.

Had movie night w/ friends made candy in molds from chocolate we already owned.

Had dental appointment said no to plastic toothbrush, plastic dental floss, and tiny plastic baggie.

Bought two sandwiches for delivery for two days of work save on gas and resources. Opt for no plastic utensils.

Did some cleaning and found a missing glove not that I planned on buying replacements.