Tote-Ally Plastic Free

This blog post was written by Shivaani Sivaraman, a 2025 Marine Plastics Ambassador.

The Tote-ally Plastic Free project stemmed from my growing interest in sustainable consumer behavior and environmental advocacy. I wanted to take direct action against single-use plastics, so I planned to collaborate with my local library to promote the use of reusable tote bags in place of plastic ones. The objectives of this initiative were to educate the public on the impact of plastic pollution, organize community workshops on sustainable habits, and distribute eco-friendly tote bags. I also managed social media outreach and partnered with environmental groups to spread awareness beyond my local area. My inspiration came from witnessing the overwhelming amount of plastic waste in my community and realizing how small daily choices add up to major environmental impacts. This project aligns with the goals of the EarthEcho Marine Plastics Ambassador Program by empowering young people to lead creative, solution-driven projects that reduce plastic pollution and strengthen leadership in sustainability advocacy.

Project Details

  • Started by contacting Shedd Aquarium about a collaboration project
  • Emailed Schaumburg Public Library, Lincoln Park Zoo, Field Museum, Raupp Museum, & Chicago Public Library for collaboration
  • Our Partners/Supporters: Vernon Area Public Library
  • Ran social media pages for outreach
  • Plan to run workshop event at VAPLD’s kick-off event in 2026

Project Impact

  • Engaged 640+ people
  • 30+ comments on Instagram posts
  • Estimated 100+ people for the kick off event at the library

This project provided many valuable insights and opportunities for growth. One of the key successes was the social media component, which allowed me to communicate effectively and build engagement. However, I also faced challenges, particularly in finding a venue willing to collaborate. Through these difficulties, I learned the importance of persistence, continuing to work even when plans fall through, staying motivated, and not letting setbacks discourage me. I also discovered that creating meaningful change is difficult but deeply worthwhile, and that outreach, such as securing event venues, often requires at least six months of advance planning.

Overall, this project helped me grow as an MPA by teaching me resilience and showing me how to keep moving forward even when it feels like all options have been exhausted. Looking ahead, my next steps include presenting at the Field Museum Youth Sessions, participating in the Youth Climate Justice Summit in Chicago next year, and posting more regularly on Instagram to maintain momentum and continue raising awareness about marine plastics within my community.