Plastics are convenient, but have a huge environmental cost. Below are some suggestions for how to reduce plastic pollution.

First, you can “LEARN” about plastics with online resources, like YouTube videos and slide decks. Second, we recommend to “REUSE and REFUSE” plastics in four ways: 1) use reusables, 2) make eco-friendly choices whenever possible, 3) contact your elected officials, and 4) take ACTION. Scroll to find out more!

LEARN (about: plastics)

REUSE AND REFUSE (plastics)

(1) Use reusables

• Water Bottles
• Shopping Bags
• Produce Bags
• Containers

(2) Make eco-friendly choices whenever possible

• Skip the bag altogether
• Store reusable bags in the car so they are handy, and put them on the passenger seat when you are headed to the store. In the store? Walk back to your car and get that reusable bag!
• Leave a reusable water bottle and coffee mug in your car to fill and refill on-the-go, to take to meetings, and when you travel
• Say no to plastic straws
• Purchase bulk items using containers or reusable produce bags
• Bring a reusable container to the restaurant to take home leftovers—and reusable cups and cutlery to places that serve only plastic

More tips on how to go plastic-free

(3) Contact elected officials about your concerns

• Find a list of your national and state elected officials (here)
• Find a list of Fairfax County supervisors (here)

Contact product manufacturers and local businesses (e.g. restaurants) about excessive packaging

(4) Take action