WEEK 3: RETHINK WASTE

Before you throw something away today, pause for a moment.
Could it be used again in a different way?
A glass jar can become storage.
A cardboard box can become an organizer.
Old clothes can turn into cleaning cloths or tote bags.
Today’s challenge is simple: upcycle one item.
Take something you were about to throw away and turn it into something useful.
Get creative. There is no perfect answer.
At the end of the day, take a photo of what you created or share what you reused.

Take a few minutes today to look around your room, closet, or workspace.
You’ll probably find things you haven’t used in months. Clothes, books, accessories, or small items that are still in good condition.
Instead of letting them sit unused, pass them on to someone who can use them.
Today’s challenge: Choose 3 items and donate them.
You can give them to a friend, a family member, a neighbor, or a local charity.
When we share what we don’t need, we reduce waste and help others at the same time.

Most cleaning products come in plastic bottles and are used once before being thrown away.
But many effective cleaners can be made at home with simple ingredients you already have.
Today’s challenge: make a simple DIY cleaning product.
For example, you can mix:
Water + vinegar + a few drops of lemon.
Use an old spray bottle or reuse a container you already have at home.
This small change helps reduce packaging waste and encourages us to rethink what we really need to buy.

Everyone has small tricks that make daily life easier.
Maybe you reuse jars for storage.
Maybe you bring your own cup for coffee.
Maybe you use cloth bags instead of plastic.
Today’s challenge: share one waste-reducing hack.
It can be something simple that works for you and could help someone else reduce waste in their daily life.
Your idea might inspire someone else to try it too.

Many everyday products come in plastic containers that are thrown away once they’re empty.

But sometimes there’s a better option: refills.
If you need to buy something this week like soap, detergent, or another household product check if a refill option is available.

​

Today’s challenge: choose a refill instead of buying a new container.
It’s a small decision, but it reduces plastic waste and helps lower the demand for new packaging.

If you don’t need to buy anything today, simply take note of refill options you see in stores.

Take a look at the containers you use at home.
Many of them are plastic and don’t last very long. Over time they crack, stain, or end up being thrown away.
Today’s challenge: replace one plastic container with a more durable option.
It could be a glass jar, a glass food container, or another long-lasting alternative you already have at home.
You don’t need to buy something new. Reusing a jar from food packaging works perfectly too.
Small changes like this reduce waste over time and help us build more sustainable habits.