Salaz recently returned from a two-week diving exhibition in the Coral Triangle. Located between the Pacific and Indian oceans, the Coral Triangle is a globally recognized center of marine biodiversity. Salaz participated in thirty-six dives, but the second to last left her speechless, reminding her of why she started WeFill.
On this particular dive, tragically, the coral reef was bleached white. Salaz had tears in her eyes, the surrounding fish demonstrated odd behaviors. She later learned this section of the reef, one month prior, was beautiful and pristine. “I think that that one dive was really important for not just me to see, but for anyone to see. Because we have to be reminded of what we are doing to the planet, this is our home.” said Salaz.
The worldwide dilemma of plastic waste is overwhelming, but “it can be approached one container at a time, one person at a time.” Salaz believes that community support is a vital factor for change, consequently, she greatly values community outreach and education.
Previously, Salaz has mentored two interns from Animas High School, challenging them to work on skills outside their comfort zones. One student chose to tackle public speaking and created a 10-minute presentation for grade school kids focusing on alternatives to plastic use. “Getting the kids involved is something that I think is super important,” said Salaz. Once kids start talking about ways to limit single-use plastic they will tell everyone, they'll tell their families and friends, and help spread awareness.
As people are becoming more environmentally conscious, Salaz's first piece of advice is to pick the low-hanging fruit, find the source of action that is most feasible for them. This can be simple, like refilling a coffee cup or water bottle rather than buying a piece of plastic. In the refilling business, “Every time somebody refills something or buys something plastic-free… we turn the tap of plastic production closer to off,” said Salaz. These small acts illustrate a willingness to make change and protect the planet.
“We don’t need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly. That is not the goal. What we need is a billion people doing it imperfectly,” said Salaz. As a community, we are capable of making a bigger impact than we think. Check it out for yourself, visit WeFill, and partake in Salaz’s mission deterring from single-use plastic.
Salaz keeps costs down, “If it is not affordable, then we are not going to make a dent”