Beyond Plastic: How the U of R Community Took on the Challenge
This July, the University community united to confront plastic waste head-on through the annual Plastic-Free Ecochallenge. Participants tracked their daily habits, replaced single-use items with reusables, and shared tips, struggles, and wins on the team feed.
From plastic-free lunch days and bulk food hauls to meaningful conversations about waste with family and friends, the challenge sparked real momentum for sustainable change on campus and beyond.
By the Numbers: What We Achieved
Up to:
- 152 plastic items avoided: including bags, packaging, straws, and bottles
- 32 low-plastic meals consumed
- 9 local low-waste businesses supported
- 1,056 hours of learning logged on sustainability and waste
- 1 SARCAN workshop hosted in collaboration with the Office of Sustainability
What We Shared
Participants took to the team feed to post:
- low-waste meal recipes,
- smart strategies for remembering reusables,
- tips for buying gently used art supplies,
- updates on new recycling programs, and
- articles and documentaries to inspire and inform others.
What We Learned
- Convenience can be a big barrier—by taking small steps it gets easier to swap out single-use plastics for reusables.
- Talking to others about sustainability makes a difference.
- Planning ahead helps reduce last-minute plastic use.
As we wrap up this month of action, we are reminded that plastic-free living is not about perfection—it is about wasting less, together.
Want to keep up the momentum? Join our upcoming events, follow us on Instagram, and watch for opportunities to get involved this fall.