Water quality is a growing concern across the globe, and marine plastic pollution is at the forefront of this issue. Altering our lifestyles by changing the way we consume plastic goods may seem small, but it can have a lasting impact. A lifelong passion for the ocean that began as Haley's childhood dream of becoming a marine biologist has turned into actionable solutions for plastic pollution. Haley is a senior studying Marine Science and Biology. Growing up in the landlocked state of Kansas, at a young age, Haley became fascinated with the ocean and its inhabitants. Her passion grew into a career, and next Fall she will be pursuing a PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering to study harmful algal bloom science and aquatic toxicants. Water quality is a growing concern across the globe, with marine plastic pollution at the forefront. In response, Haley has altered the way she consumes plastic goods in her lifestyle. Haley believes everyone can make the same simple switches, to stop plastic pollution and better the health of our world’s oceans. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx