Not all plastics are created equal. While plastic pollution is a serious problem, it also poses health problems as we drink and eat using plastics that may contain toxic elements. Educate yourself and keep both you and our planet in better shape!

Option 1: Educate Yourself
Learn more about what the numbers mean on plastics that you buy. Of particular importance, avoid plastics numbered 3, 6, and 7. https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/04/11/plastic-use.aspx

Option 2: Reduce Plastic Use, No Single-Use Plastics
Start with small changes at home and reduce your use of plastics. Consider using glass instead of plastic cups or plastic baggies. Find a reusable coffee mug. Forego the plastic bags at the grocery stores and bring reusable bags.

Option 3 - Recycle
Don’t use toss those plastic yogurt containers or other items into the trash! Be sure to clean them and recycle them. For more information on your local recycling options: https://berecycled.org/search/

Make the switch to sustainable clothing brands and help our environment. Start slow with a new piece, if you’re new to the area, or turn it up a level and incorporate more into your world. Here are a few ideas:

1. Check out this great guide of 35 ethical clothing brands, with price points. Companies range from inexpensive PACT to others including Everlane and Patagonia. https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/fair-trade-clothing

2. There are also some companies that use dead stock, or recycled fabrics in their collections. Learn about 9 fashion brands that might become part of your new collection: https://www.stylewise-blog.com/2018/12/9-sustainable-deadstock-fashion-brands.html

If you have any favorites, be sure to let us all know by dropping a comment into this opportunity!

Thanks!

Who knew that old jeans could be recycled into housing insulation?

Stop by a Madewell store with your pre-loved pairs of jeans (from any brand: the bootcuts from high school, the baggy ones from your skater girl/skater boy days, the bright pink skinnies from who knows when). They will be turned into housing insulation for organizations like Habitat for Humanity—and you’ll get $20 off new ones.

https://www.madewell.com/inspo-do-well-denim-recycling-landing.html