Celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month while minimizing your environmental impact can be challenging, but it is possible with a few sustainable choices.
October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month to educate the public about early detection, honor survivors, and support fundraising for research and patient services, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Here are 15 eco-friendly ways to observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, based on information from the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Susan G. Komen, the National Cancer Institute, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and other organizations.
Join a charity walk using reusable gear
Participate in a breast cancer awareness walk or
fundraiser and bring a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, and cloth tote bag instead of single-use items. The EPA recommends reusable products as a way to reduce waste.
Donate to a charity
Some awareness products are used briefly and discarded. Consider donating directly to organizations that fund research, patient navigation, transportation assistance, mammograms, and support services.
Host a "wear pink from your closet" day
Encourage friends, family members or coworkers to wear pink clothing they already own instead of purchasing new items. Reusing existing clothing can help reduce consumption and waste.
Organize a litter cleanup
Dedicate a neighborhood, park, riverbank or trail cleanup to breast cancer survivors and people currently undergoing treatment. The activity combines awareness, community service and environmental stewardship.
Plant a pollinator garden
Create a butterfly- or pollinator-friendly garden as a living tribute to someone affected by breast cancer. Native plants can support local ecosystems while providing a lasting memorial or awareness project.
Walk, bike or carpool to awareness events
Reduce transportation-related emissions by walking, cycling or sharing rides to fundraisers, educational events and awareness activities.
Hold a sustainable fundraiser
Instead of selling disposable products, consider a used-book sale, native plant sale, thrifted fashion event or upcycled craft market. Proceeds can be donated to breast cancer organizations.
Share breast health information online
Use social media to promote information about breast cancer screening, early detection and support resources rather than purchasing printed promotional materials. Organizations such as the American Cancer Society and National Breast Cancer Foundation offer educational resources that can be shared digitally.
Volunteer with a breast cancer organization
Consider donating your time instead of purchasing awareness merchandise. Organizations such as Susan G. Komen offer volunteer opportunities at community events, races, educational programs, and fundraising walks.
Host a zero-waste pink picnic
Use reusable dishes, cloth napkins and refillable water containers, and consider serving locally sourced foods. Reusable tableware can help reduce waste generated by gatherings.
Write encouragement cards using recycled paper
Create handwritten messages for breast cancer patients, survivors and caregivers using recycled or repurposed materials. Many support organizations welcome notes of encouragement.
Organize a community nature walk
A guided walk in a local park can raise awareness while encouraging physical activity and outdoor recreation. Research cited by the National Cancer Institute and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has linked regular physical activity with a lower risk of several cancers, including breast cancer.
Give sustainable gifts to survivors
Consider potted plants, locally grown flowers, reusable tea mugs, beeswax wraps, or experience-based gifts instead of disposable items.
Start a workplace awareness campaign
Use digital newsletters, virtual educational sessions, email resources and online fundraising tools instead of printed flyers and giveaways. Many breast cancer organizations provide materials that can be shared electronically.
Support local businesses with sustainable practices
Purchase products or services from local businesses that emphasize sustainability and donate a portion of proceeds to breast cancer causes. Supporting local enterprises can reduce transportation impacts while benefiting the community.
This reporting content is supported by a partnership with Journalism Funding Partners.
Erica Van Buren is the climate change reporter for The Augusta Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network. Connect with her at EVanBuren@usatodayco.com or on X: @EricaVanBuren32.
This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: How to honor Breast Cancer awareness and help the environment | Exclusive
