Family to go plastic-free
Sophie Stanger and her family will try to be plastic free for an entire year – even if it means giving up Oreos and other treats.
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Updated: October 15, 2009 8:34 AM
Saying goodbye to plastic for a year means nine-year-old Sophie Stanger will no longer get stuffed animals or chocolate bars, both of which are made or packaged with the material.
The Ocean Cliff Elementary student will also have to forfeit Oreo Sippers, which spurred the non-plastic initiative in the first place.
Two weeks ago, when her mother, Keri, bought the treat, Sophie admired the individual package each cookie came in, and asked what plastic is made of.
When Keri told her it is composed of oil, a diminishing resource, Sophie began thinking about the amount of plastic her family used, from water bottles to certain clothing.
Sophie and her family are now pledging to avoid the use and purchase of plastic whenever possible.
They will buy their bread in paper bags rather than plastic ones, stop using garbage bags, get their milk in glass bottles and make more products from scratch at home.
When it's not possible to avoid plastic, they plan to recycle and reuse it.
"It will be a challenge but I think we can do it," Sophie said.
She has been shocked to discover how many household items are made of plastic, and is hoping to increase the awareness of others, too.
"My best friend thinks it's a good idea," she said, noting some of her classmates were taken aback by her willingness to sacrifice certain treats. "Some of them are surprised."
After a year, Sophie said she may be adjusted to not using plastic products and continue the effort.
"You might find that you don't need it anymore."
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