Individual action is powerful. Here are some some ideas to help you get started.

1. Our Pledge Promise - Eliminate Plastic Bags

Alternatives to Plastic Bags

• Take alternative shopping bags with you, preferably use bags made out of all natural fibers such as organic cotton, canvas, jute or hemp, though really any reusable bag is better than using plastic ones. There are reusable bags that fold into themselves and fit great in purses so youll never be without a bag. Some great options are available at GreenFeet.

• Use and re-use brown paper bags for bulk items such as beans and rice.

• Use reusable mesh produce bags for all your fresh produce.

• Register Clerks and fellow shoppers will notice you and your reusable bags. If they are curious tell them about our pledge and why this Action is so effective.

  
  

2. Eliminate Bottled Water.

• Use a stainless steel reusable water container for water on the go. Purchase your own at SIGG USA or Klean Kanteen.

• Cancel your deliveries of bottled water and install a water purifier to clean your tap water for drinking. Many studies have shown that bottled water isnt that clean afterall, plus water that sits around in plastic jugs is subject to the chemicals that leach into the water from the plastic. No more deliveries also means less CO2 emissions due to the transportation of the water.

• Take it to the next level and stop buying any beverages packaged in plastic. Instead opt for beverages in glass, paper or other renewable materials.

3. Reduce or eliminate your consumption of plastic products and items packaged in plastic...this is just as much for your health as it is for the health of the planet.

• Purchase items that use minimal packaging made of renewable resources such as cardboard.

• Purchase items made of renewable resources such as wood, metal, and glass rather than plastic.

• Buy fresh, organic, locally grown food or food that is packaged in glass or metal packaging.

• Avoid heating or storing food in plastic containers or plastic wrap. There are good storage alternatives made of glass and metal and wax paper serves as a good alternative to plastic wrap.

• Do not give young children plastic teethers or toys.

• Try your best to find clothing, bedding and furniture made of natural fibers and materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp.

Other ways to take ACTION for our oceans.

Volunteer for Ocean Conservancys Coastal Cleanup on September 20, 2008.

Make World Ocean Day, June 8th, 2008 a Day Without Plastic.

Visit Ocean Conservancys Take Action page.