This blog post was written by Khushi Soni, a 2024 EarthEcho Marine Plastics Ambassador.

As an EarthEcho Marine Plastics Ambassador, I’ve had the opportunity of turning my passion for the Great Lakes into a real, impactful difference. Being an ambassador has been more than a title; it has been an experience of learning, leadership, and inspiring others to care deeply about the plastic pollution crisis that is threatening our waters and the world we all share and admire.

My Marine Plastics Ambassador experience has made me a stronger advocate and leader. I’ve learned how to organize meaningful initiatives, collaborate with peers and mentors, and spark conversations that will not only educate but inspire. Working with my school’s Eco Club through a week-long campaign was a hands-on lesson in teamwork, creativity, and persistence. It showed me how one person's commitment can reach out and touch an entire community and how group action can be the key to the difference we want to achieve.

Our effort aimed to inspire our peers to think differently about plastic consumption, marine life, and environmental responsibility. It wasn't just about sharing information but it was about encouraging people to take action, no matter how small. Change begins with knowledge, but it is sustained by the decisions we make on an ongoing basis.

One of the most powerful moments was our school assembly with Maggie Chang, a youth climate activist, poet, and artist who was named one of WWF Canada's Living Planet Leaders and a Top 25 Under 25 Environmentalists. Maggie's story, from grade one to today, showed students how one voice can turn into a movement. Her straightforward and approachable message encouraged over 750 students not just to understand the urgency of acting on climate change, but also to feel that they could play a role in the solution.

In trying to get the students creatively involved, I made customized pins that read: "Wave Goodbye to Plastic." Making 100 pins and handing them out during the week, I witnessed these small trinkets lead to tons of conversations in the hallways and classrooms. The pins became more than just accessories; they turned into conversation starters on microplastics, single-use plastics, and everyday habits that impact the environment.

We also introduced Plastic-Free Thursday, encouraging students not to wear synthetic fibers like polyester. Many were surprised at how much plastic is used in their clothing, which spurred conversation on consumerism and the environment. These kinds of awareness that translate into personal realization are exactly what we were looking for.

As a means of providing an accessible and enjoyable alternative, we hosted a school-wide clothing swap. Students brought in their gently used clothing and exchanged it for "new-to-them" clothing. The swap was both interactive and impactful, raising awareness around issues of fast fashion and textile waste while showing that sustainability can be stylish and accessible.

To wrap up the week, we launched a nature photo contest, inviting students to capture the world's beauty around them. The stunning submissions reminded us all why we do this work in the first place. The winning picture was shared on social media to encourage people to take a second to appreciate nature’s creation of something simple as water.

Being a Marine Plastics Ambassador has not only amplified my voice but also reminded me that every small action can be part of a plastic-free future. I’m deeply grateful to EarthEcho for empowering me with the knowledge, tools, and support to lead this important work as a Marine Plastics Ambassador.