I have begun using laundry detergent eco strips instead of purchasing liquid detergent.

In a fitting finale to the plastic-free challenge, I attended an environmental trivia game night at a locally-owned brewery and my team won 2nd place. My prize was beeswax wraps (yay). BUT THEN while in line and ordering my beverage and seeing glassware everywhere, my rooter was handed to me in a PLASTIC CUP. Wahh wahh wahhhhh. I protested but it was too late. They would never reuse it of course. He just didn't want to stop and clean glasses. As we all know, this challenge is forever. Thanks and good luck, everyone. It's been fun doing it with you! Onward.

Overall, I thought the website was not user friendly but being a part of the Plastic-Free Challenge in itself was a good reminder to be mindful of choices I make before purchasing anything.

Just saw this on a story from the University of Minnesota’s Facebook page.

And so, the last day for recording our efforts here. We know, however, the true challenge against single use plastic never truly ends. Let’s use what we have learned and actions we’ve done to keep our communities, state, nation, and planet clean.

It has an honor to communicate with, learn from, get back in touch with, and meet all of you- even those that never posted on the feed. 🫡

As for my first step, I’ll be purchasing a Ridwell as I’ve discussed. I’m trying to figure out, though, if I’ll have enough room for the box on my front steps. My side steps would probably have more room.

I’ll also be reducing my bathroom and laundry room waste. Might possibly also be able to clean out the playhouse and garage this year.

Thanks once again for all your efforts and successes,

H McCrillis.

• 29,311 minutes learning.
• 5,191 pounds of carbon dioxide had been saved.
• 2,841 disposable cups weren’t sent to landfills.
• 2,813 bottles weren’t sent to landfills.
• 2,378 pieces of litter were picked up.
• 2,295 pieces of cutlery were not sent to landfills.
• 1,942 zero-waste meals consumed.
• 1,592 plastic straws not sent to landfills.
• 607 + 266 pounds of waste recycled. (I don’t know which waste they’re counting for these.)
• 490 pounds of packaging waste avoided.
• 362 advocacy actions completed.
• 178 conversations with people.
• 52 waste audits conducted.
• 49 documentaries watched.
• 12 public officials or leaders contacted.

A friend shared they bought a shampoo bar to reduce plastic inspired by me. I’ve posted about the challenge most everyday on social media and talk about it a fair amount.