Sustainability Tip: Go Plastic-Free in 2025 — Simple Swaps to Reduce Your Plastic Footprint

Please sign up and join us for the Plastic-Free Challenge in order to reduce plastic usage starting this February. Credit: Ramsey County

By Alliance Intern Hannah Nicklay from St. Olaf College ‘28

Imagine a world where beaches are free of plastic debris, wildlife thrives without entanglement and our waterways flow clear and clean. That vision starts with people like you making thoughtful, sustainable choices each day.

“Together, we can create a world with less waste and more sustainability. It’s not just a challenge—it’s a movement, and we’re excited to have you be part of it,” says the Plastic-Free Challenge team. “Plastic pollution isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s a call to action for each of us.”

Would you like to join the Alliance’s team for the Plastic-Free Challenge and increase the impact we can all make together? It just takes a minute to sign up and receive daily tips.

Every small action adds up to a larger movement that can make a difference. Here are five:

  1. Ditch the Plastic Wrap at Home
    Plastic wrap is a convenient kitchen item, but its single-use nature contributes to a growing waste problem. “I switched to beeswax wraps last year, and I’ve cut my plastic waste in half,” shares Sarah J., a challenge participant. Beeswax wraps and silicone food covers are practical, reusable alternatives that keep food fresh while reducing waste. Whether covering leftovers or wrapping snacks, these eco-friendly swaps are easy to integrate into your daily routine. The challenge suggests: “Replace plastic wrap for one week and notice the difference.”

  2. Skip Plastic Bottles On-the-Go
    Plastic water bottles are a significant source of pollution, with billions discarded annually. Carrying a reusable water bottle is a simple yet impactful way to reduce waste. “Carrying my reusable bottle has become second nature,” says Alex T., a longtime advocate for sustainable living. Refill stations are available at parks, gyms, and workplaces, making it convenient to avoid single-use plastic bottles. The challenge encourages participants to “refuse single-use plastic bottles for the entire month and track how much waste you save.”

  3. Shop Smart for Food
    Grocery shopping can be a major source of plastic waste, from produce bags to unnecessary packaging. “Bringing my own cloth produce bags and shopping at bulk stores has made a huge impact,” says Maria L., who’s embraced the plastic-free lifestyle. Many stores now support customers using their own containers for bulk items like grains, nuts, and spices. By opting for unpackaged produce and reusable bags, you can drastically reduce your reliance on plastic. The challenge urges participants to “try one plastic-free grocery trip and inspire others to do the same.”

  4. Personal Care: Green Your Bathroom Routine
    Bathrooms are often filled with plastic-heavy products like toothbrushes, shampoo bottles, and toothpaste tubes. Switching to sustainable alternatives can significantly reduce this waste. “Switching to a shampoo bar was easier than I thought, and it smells amazing!” shares Jessica P., a participant in the challenge. Bamboo toothbrushes, solid shampoo bars, and toothpaste tablets are eco-friendly options that work just as well as their plastic counterparts. The challenge guide recommends: “Choose one plastic-heavy product in your bathroom and swap it for a sustainable option this week.”

  5. Take Action in Your Community
    Plastic litter not only looks unsightly but also harms wildlife and ecosystems. Organizing or joining a cleanup event is a rewarding way to make a tangible impact. “Our neighborhood cleanup collected over 50 pounds of plastic waste in just two hours,” says John K., a community leader. These events bring people together to protect their local environment and raise awareness about plastic pollution. The challenge team encourages: “Gather friends and family to clean up a local area and share your results online to inspire others.”

The nonprofit environmental organization, The Ocean Cleanup, explains how plastic pollution causes damage to not only oceans, but to humans as well. Source: The Ocean Cleanup

Why This Matters

Every year, humanity produces over 380 million tons of plastic, and a staggering 10 million tons end up in our oceans annually. This waste poses severe risks to marine life, with creatures like turtles, birds, and fish ingesting or becoming entangled in plastic debris.

On land, plastics leach harmful chemicals into soil and water, affecting ecosystems and human health. Moreover, the production and incineration of plastic are major contributors to climate change, emitting millions of tons of greenhouse gases each year.

You Can Make a Difference!

“Change begins with small steps,” reminds the Plastic-Free Challenge team. Are you ready to make a difference? Learn more and sign up for our team today, and start reducing your plastic footprint.

By taking part, you’ll join a global community of individuals working together to make impactful changes. Share your progress on social media with the hashtag #PlasticFreeChallenge, and inspire others to follow your lead. Whether it’s swapping out single-use plastics, hosting a cleanup event, or encouraging friends and family to rethink their habits, your efforts can spark a ripple effect.

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