By Shelby Ganske, Alliance intern from University of Minnesota Duluth ‘23
Plastics are here, there and everywhere. We’ve long been disturbed by plastic litter and ocean pollution, but have become increasingly concerned about microplastic health risks in our drinking water. Unlike natural materials that can be composted and returned to the soil, plastics don’t go away. They simply break down into smaller pieces of plastics, which can harm fish and wildlife, and have largely unknown health impacts for us, according to the Plastic-Free Challenge. It often feels overwhelming.
However, there is something we can do about it. We can lower our own plastic use and waste through the Plastic-Free Challenge this February. You can join the Alliance’s Plastic-Free Challenge Team and start to gain points for our Team through simple sustainable actions, ranging from avoiding plastic bags, straws and toxic PVC to using reusable water bottles and cutlery. You can learn a lot and make a difference. Join the Alliance’s team in the Plastic-Free Challenge to help create a more sustainable February and future.