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Local Nonprofit Kicks Off 40 Day Plastic-Free Challenge!

On Valentine’s Day, February 14th, Plastic Ocean Project, the Wilmington-based nonprofit is kicking off a 40 Day Plastic-Free Challenge. This date also coincides with the first day of Lent.

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Local Nonprofit Kicks Off 40 Day Plastic-Free Challenge!

WILMINGTON, NC-February 13, 2024-On Valentine’s Day, February 14th, Plastic Ocean Project, the Wilmington-based nonprofit is kicking off a 40 Day Plastic-Free Challenge. This date also coincides with the first day of Lent.

POP’s Communications Director Lisa Andree explains that, “For many, Lent is a time of reflection and growth with a focus on making worthwhile changes. It seems like the perfect time to ask members of our coastal community to examine ways they can have a more positive impact on the environment. Considering it’s also Valentine’s Day-what a great way to show the planet some love!”

Andree reflected that the coastal setting that enticed so many to put down roots here is under extreme threat: “Not only does plastic pollute, it kills marine life and contaminates the food chain.”

Here’s the challenge: Start with a large bag or box. Each day for the next 40 days, choose an item you can do without. These can be swaps from single-use plastic items to reusable ones and or things you no longer need. For example, cloth shopping bags instead of single-use plastic ones, fillable coffee pods over disposable ones, reusable food containers instead of Ziploc bags or clothing you no longer wear. When the time is up, discard and or donate the collected items.

Andree asks that even if you don’t think you can come up with something for the entire 40 days, every little bit helps & it’s a great way to get a jump on spring cleaning! Please inspire others by sharing your progress and tagging POP via its Facebook or Instagram pages.