Today’s guest has a passion for protecting the oceans by reducing human dependence on plastics. Concerned about the toxins commonly found in lunchbox containers, plastic pollution activist and environmental entrepreneur Sandra Ann Harris decided to eliminate plastics from her kids’ lunchboxes. In 2008, she founded ECOlunchbox, a California green-certified business focused on plastic pollution aversion, offering plastic-free food containers that are non-toxic and healthy for both people and the planet. Sandra is also the author of a new book, Say Goodbye to Plastic: A Survival Guide for Plastic-Free Living. In this episode, listeners find out how Sandra has tried to make an impact, no matter what she was doing, and why she was inspired to start her own company to combat plastic pollution. Hear about some of the challenges she faced, from production to funding, and the tactic she has used to inspire change, as well as how each of us can be part of the change – in whatever way we can. She also shares some of her tips for other thought leaders and entrepreneurs thinking about writing a book, and explains how she continues to personally evolve. Tune in today to find out more!Key Points From This Episode:Hear a bit more about Sandra’s career arc, from journalist to aid worker to entrepreneur. How the stories she chose to write as a journalist reflected her desire to make an impact.What it was about the plastic crisis that inspired Sandra to start ECOlunchbox.Some challenges that Sandra encountered in launching and growing her company.Sandra believes that, with curiosity and creativity, there is nowhere we can’t go and nothing we can’t achieve.The benefits of crowdfunding versus sourcing investors or self-funding your ideas.From personal health benefits to the benefit of the planet – how people came to recognize the negative impact of plastic.The value of using positive messaging rather than using negativity and fear to inspire action.We don’t need to know all the facts, we just need to be part of the change, however we can.Sandra shares the inspiration for her book: why this book, and why now?Pro tips for other thought leaders and entrepreneurs thinking about writing a book.How Sandra keeps evolving personally by continually taking on new challenges.Where to find Sandra’s book, Say Goodbye to Plastic: A Survival Guide for Plastic-Free Living.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Sandra Ann Harris on LinkedInECOlunchboxSay Goodbye to PlasticKickstarterCradle to CradleThe UpcycleLovemarks