Friends,

It’s that time of year again: Time to take the Plastic Free Challenge!

From October 1 to 30, we’re asking folks across NOVA (and beyond) to skip single-use plastic bags, bottles, and straws.

Why? Because plastic pollution is harming the planet. It litters our local streams, rivers, and land. It never degrades; every piece of plastic you’ve ever used is still with us. It is connected to climate change and pollutes at every stage of its life cycle: from materials extraction to product production to waste disposal.

Plastic is bad news. But we all have the power to do something about it.

Start by taking the Plastic Free Challenge. If you’re already skipping bags, bottles, and straws, try cutting your single-use plastic consumption by 50% or even 100%. Check out our laundry list of ways you can reduce your plastic footprint this October.

Then plan to attend the Plastic Free Forum on September 28, 10 a.m. to 12 noon, at the Great Falls Library. We’re hosting a panel discussion with regional Plastic Free gurus who tackle the issue from all sorts of perspectives. Confirmed panelists include Delegate Elizabeth Guzman and Farmers Restaurant Group owner Dan Simons. You don’t want to miss this.

Are you up for the Challenge?

Julie

Plastic Free Challenge community partners: 350 Fairfax, Alexandria 350, Clean Fairfax, Climate Reality Project: Northern Virginia Chapter, EcoAction Arlington, Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions, Friends of Accotink Creek, Friends of Dyke Marsh, Friends of Hunting Creek, Greater Prince William Climate Action Network, Great Falls Group-Sierra Club Virginia, Green Muslims, La ColectiVA, NOVA Trash Action Work Force, Our Last Straw