Vanessa Tan

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

Daily movement supports our physical and mental health. I will spend 30 minutes each day exercising in a way that feels good to me, such as walking, running, stretching, or dancing.

I will install a greywater catchment system in my home.

I will try a new method of food preparation, such as canning, pickling, or baking bread.

If my community does not have a tool library or other sharing economy options, I will create or support a sharing economy with family, friends, and neighbors.

If my community lacks a tool library or other sharing economy options, I will create or support one with family, friends, or neighbors.

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 spend at least 15 minutes assessing the vehicles used by my company or college and advocate for a purchasing policy focused on fuel-efficient vehicles.

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

I will practice actively listening to a friend, family member, co-worker, acquaintance, or someone who I may disagree with in at least 10 conversations.

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

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

I will sign up for a car-sharing service or organize car sharing with my neighbors, to cut down on the number of vehicles on the road.

I will avoid sending 1 disposable cups to the landfill each day by using a reusable mug.

I will replace 12 incandescent lightbulbs with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

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 reduce the amount of paper mail that I receive by 3.4lbs (1.5kg) a month or 41lbs (18.6kg) a year by opting into paperless billing, ending unwanted subscriptions and opting out of junk mail.

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

I will repair at least one item that is broken, but is repairable. This might be items like garden tools, sewing machine, small appliances, electronics, clothing, and more.

I will naturally heat and cool my house, office, or dorm room by opening or closing my windows, curtains, and blinds, and by using fans.

Adding fruits and vegetables to our meals nourishes our body and the planet. I will prepare and enjoy 2 servings of a variety of colorful fruits and veggies.

I will spend 5 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.