Buffy Dinh

I will replace 10 incandescent lightbulbs with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

I will sign up for my utility company's clean/renewable energy option.

Individual actions are important, but people and organizations working together can make a real impact. I will share a carbon calculator with a friend and invite them to calculate the carbon footprint of their household.

I will avoid wasting water while waiting for the shower or sink to heat up.

Access to affordable, nutritious food is a food justice issue. I will advocate for local and/or organic food options at work, on campus and/or in the spaces I frequent.

Instead of traveling by plane, I will find an alternative way to accomplish the goals of an upcoming trip (i.e. telepresence, vacation locally).

I will use the resource links provided and spend 15 minutes learning about the native populations that lived in my area prior to colonization, and what I can do to support those that still exist.

I will calculate my digital carbon footprint and take steps to reduce my CO2 emissions.

I will calculate my Water Footprint to learn about my tap water use and "virtual water" use.

I will find out what stocks and bonds are in my investment account portfolio to determine if they align with my values (e.g. environmental, social responsibility, community).

I will fix faucets or report leaky faucets to facilities that have been wasting up to 3 gallons (11 L) of water per faucet every day.

I will plant native species, landscape with water-efficient plants, and use eco-friendly fertilizers.

I will adjust my thermostat down 2 degrees from usual when I use the heat, and up 2 degrees when I use air conditioning.

I will make sure I’m registered to vote. While I’m at it, I’ll sign up to help others register too!

Flying emits a lot of CO2 into the atmosphere which affects air quality and the health of our planet, animals, and people. If buying a plane ticket, I will also buy a carbon offset.

I will replace my lawn with a drought-tolerant landscape and save the water, money, and time I used to spend cutting the grass.

I will research tool libraries and other sharing economy organizations in my area and rent instead of buy next time I need something they offer.

I will spend at least 10 minutes finding out what local laws, policies, and practices keep people from voting in my community.

I will find out what food programs are in my area and donate food and/or other items that they request.

I will create a rain garden or bioswale or use rain barrels to collect water for outdoor watering needs.

I will calculate the carbon emissions associated with my household and consider how different lifestyle choices could reduce our carbon footprint and our impact on the environment.

I will spend 15 minutes reading the Ecochallenge feed each day and giving high fives or commenting on posts by people who I don't know, but whose content inspires or interests me.

I will enjoy 2 meatless meals and/or 3 vegan meals each day this week.

I will spend 15 minutes listening to a podcast about equity and justice.

I will spend 22 minutes listening to a podcast about food.