Melissa Hutton

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 find out where to recycle the recyclable items that I can't put in recycling dumpsters or my curbside bin.

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

I will shop at a farmers market or food co-op to support local farmers and businesses. By doing so, I may be able to learn more about who produces the food I eat and goods I buy.

I will avoid sending 2 disposable cups to the landfill each day by using a reusable mug.

Processed foods can be less nutritious for our bodies and take more energy and water to produce, which can create more waste, pollution, and offer less benefit to our health. I will enjoy 1 meals per day free of processed foods.

I will save up to 8 gallons (32 L) of water a day by installing a low-flow shower-head.

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

I will spend 10 minutes researching toxic chemicals found in cleaning supplies and personal care products and remove them from my home.

I will spend 10 minutes learning about local or national energy issues that will be on the voting ballot this fall.

I will switch to washing my clothes in cold water, saving up to 1,600 lbs of CO2 over the course of the next year.

I will watch 1 documentaries about food sovereignty: the right of local peoples to control their own food systems including markets, ecological resources, food cultures and production methods.

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.

Organic farming practices are healthier and safer for our planet, animals, and people. I will enjoy 3 meals cooked with organic ingredients per day.

I will enjoy 0 meatless meals and/or 2 vegan meals each day this week.

Action is to recycle candy and snack wrappers at collection bins in kitchens on 1, 2, and 3rd floors. I am choosing this action to bring awareness to unnecessary waste and challenge staff to do this daily as this call to action incorporates us to do the walk on the BRI Facilities Sustainability Road Map and have some daily exercise in the work place as well!