Systemic change is needed, which is why I advocate for plastic reduction policy solutions (see below), but the actions of individuals do make a difference. A blog post I wrote for Surfrider Foundation’s San Diego Chapter includes Simple Ideas for Plastic-Lite Living.
To make it fun, you can start by using the Plastic-Lite Challenge Bingo card and check off your changes as you make them! This bingo card can serve as a regular reminder, and it can also provide an engaging challenge for you, your family, and friends. It includes helpful links to information about single-use plastic items and why they should be avoided.
It’s important to keep in mind that eliminating all plastics from daily life can feel overwhelming. To avoid frustration, start by reducing one or two items at a time. And remember, the Surfrider Foundation advocates for legislation at all levels of government because avoiding single-use plastics and plastic packaging shouldn’t be so difficult, time-consuming, and expensive.
Advocacy
Surfrider Foundation’s Rise Above Plastics (RAP) program offers opportunities for everyone to get involved, whether by initiating a campaign to reduce plastics in your school, workplace, or community or by supporting one of our local campaigns.
The San Diego Chapter’s RAP team, of which I am a co-lead, has been instrumental in the adoption of approximately 20 single-use plastic reduction ordinances in ten cities across San Diego County.
Check out the San Diego Plastics Laws Database for details and learn how to report non-compliant businesses.
Surfrider San Diego’s RAP program committee meets every third Tuesday from 6:00-7:00pm. All are welcome. Register for an upcoming meeting HERE.
Beach cleanups help too and are a fun way to get involved!
- Surfrider San Diego Beach Cleanups
- San Diego County 2024 Marine Debris Report — Surfrider San Diego & San Diego Coastkeeper
- Creek to Bay Cleanup
- California Coastal Cleanup Day
ShoreSweep 