The Zip-Lock challenge is a powerful call to action that allows participants to tackle the issue of global waste management and experience a 7-day minimal-waste lifestyle. During the challenge, participants were asked to collect all the non-recyclable waste they produce in a provided zip-lock bag which should be carried at all times. Success in the challenge was measured by whether or not participants were able to fit an entire week’s waste in the given zip-lock bag. To prevent from producing more waste than the zip-lock bag can hold, participants were led to actively choose more eco-friendly and reusable alternatives. We hope that this challenge will act as an opportunity for participants to reflect on the extent of their ecological footprint and to learn about sustainable methods to reduce waste.
From August 2nd to August 8th 2021
100+ participants
total $7,894 raised
provided yearlong access to freshwater for 100 families
We challenge you to use your experience to continue the Zip-Lock challenge in your own schools and organizations.
[How to Participate]
1. Get a Bag -(we recommend a ziplock bag, something that locks, is easy to open, and is see through)
2. Decorate and Label your Bag: Make it YOURS. Make sure you can distinguish this bag from others so you or someone else doesn’t end up throwing it away
3. Having a Plan: Think about what trash you made yesterday, and try to set a goal for yourself, such as how much waste you will produce each day. (You can mark a line on the bag to set a goal for how little waste you want to make each day.) Afterall, you have seven days but just one bag!
4. Remind Yourself: when doing something that produces waste, (eg:eating a candy bar) be sure to keep your bag near you at all times
5. Post Progress Pictures: keep track of your progress by posting images of your bag at the end of each day. Tag us in your photos in instagram @gachi_2021 and use our hashtag #Zip-LockChallenge to show your commitment!!