The plastic pollution problem is much more complex than the trash we see in our environment or the ones ingested by wildlife. With links to the climate emergency, environmental justice, overconsumption, and other pressing issues, the problem can only be addressed by viewing it through a systems lens. Browse our Resources to learn more.

Schools and universities can join Break Free From Plastic’s global Plastic Free Campuses program. The program outlines concrete steps that students and administrators can take to address plastic waste on campus and educate the youth on the plastic pollution crisis.

Conduct brand audits along with cleanups to identify the corporations responsible for the unmanageable plastic waste in your community, school, or office. Then, hold them accountable by sending their plastic waste to their corporate offices or writing to them that while you want the product, you don’t want the plastic packaging that goes with it.

Write to your mayor or legislator to ask them to implement zero waste policies and systems. Circulate petitions in support of local or national legislation. You can find sample legislation and similar resources here.

Say no to single-use plastic, bring your own reusable bags and containers, shop local and from zero waste/plastic-free establishments, repair items instead of buying new ones—there are so many ways to go plastic-free, conserve resources, and reduce waste as an individual, family, office, or school.