Ecochallenge.org

The People's Ecochallenge 2024

October 1 - October 31, 2024

Dharshan Y G

HP Inc. Eco Saviours

"Conserve Energy and Environment"

POINTS TOTAL

0 TODAY
0 THIS WEEK
1,084 TOTAL

participant impact

UP TO

62

organic meals

consumed
UP TO

63

whole food meals

consumed
UP TO

124

meatless or vegan meals

consumed
UP TO

2.0

water collection systems

installed
UP TO

1,326

gallons of water

have been saved
UP TO

2.0

donations

made
UP TO

85

hours

volunteered
UP TO

3.0

public officials or leaders

contacted
UP TO

3.0

advocacy actions

completed
UP TO

52

conversations

with people
UP TO

3.0

community events

hosted or attended
UP TO

100

trees

planted
UP TO

500

minutes

spent outdoors
UP TO

3,088

minutes

spent learning

Dharshan's actions

Water

5-Minute Showers

I will save up to 6 gallons (23 L) of water each day by taking 5-minute showers.

COMPLETED 31
DAILY ACTIONS

Nature

Support Local Pollinators

At least 30% of crops and 90% of flowering plants rely on pollinators to produce fruit. I will spend 10 minutes researching which plants support local native pollinators and plant some in my yard.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Simplicity

Research Impact Investing

Using the links provided below, I will research impact investing and determine if it is right for me.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Simplicity

Organize a Course

I will organize Ecochallenge.org's discussion course A Different Way: Living Simply in a Complex World with my family, friends, co-workers, or classmates.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Simplicity

Find / Join A Sharing Economy

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.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Food

Reduce Animal Products

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

COMPLETED 31
DAILY ACTIONS

Food

Whole Foods Diet

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 3 meals per day free of processed foods.

COMPLETED 31
DAILY ACTIONS

Nature

Join An Outdoor Project

I will join an outdoor restoration project in my community.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Nature

Plant Trees

I will plant 10 trees in my community, public parks, or backyard.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Nature

Organize a Course

I will organize one of Ecochallenge.org's discussion courses, such as 'Reconnecting with Earth', with my family, friends, coworkers, or classmates.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Nature

Explore My Area

I will explore at least one new hiking trail or nature walk in my area.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Nature

Learn About the Impact of Old Refrigerants

I will spend 5 minutes researching the impact of old harmful refrigerants on our environment.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Water

Collect Rain Water

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Food

Choose Organic Ingredients

Organic farming practices are healthier and safer for our planet, animals, and people. I will enjoy 2 meals cooked with organic ingredients per day.

COMPLETED 31
DAILY ACTIONS

Food

Learn More about Food Apartheid

I will spend 10 about food apartheid and find out how I can advocate for healthy and fresh food in my region.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Food

Advocate for More Food Options

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.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Food

Donate Food

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Water

Get Involved in the Water Justice Movement

I will spend at least 10 minutes using the resources provided to learn about water justice and find out how I can get involved in local initiatives.

COMPLETED 31
DAILY ACTIONS

Water

Install Greywater Catchment

I will install a greywater catchment system in my home.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Water

Ditch the Lawn

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Water

Mulch the Base of Trees and Plants

I will prevent water runoff and increase absorbency by mulching the base of plants and trees at my home or work.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Water

Fix Leaky Faucets

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.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Water

Install a Low-Flow Showerhead

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Water

Insulate Water Pipes and Water Heater

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Energy

Choose Clean/Renewable Energy

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Participant Feed

Reflection, encouragement, and relationship building are all important aspects of getting a new habit to stick.
Share thoughts, encourage others, and reinforce positive new habits on the Feed.

To get started, share “your why.” Why did you join the challenge and choose the actions you did?

Dharshan Y G 10/25/2024 8:52 AM

Our Future is in Our Hands

Read More
Dharshan Y G 10/25/2024 8:47 AM

The Festival of lights is coming, please take care of local people by giving them also an opportunity to light a lamp in their homes with family.

Read More
- Anan Srivilai 10/25/2024 8:53 AM
  
  Love the festival of lights. Perfect chance for families to go outside and spend time with their family!
  
  Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Water Install Greywater Catchment

What are some of the needs that water meets or benefits that water provides for you?

Dharshan Y G 10/16/2024 9:25 AM

Water meets several essential needs and provides numerous benefits, including:

### 1. **Drinking and Hydration**
Water is vital for maintaining hydration, supporting overall health, and ensuring bodily functions operate effectively.

### 2. **Sanitation and Hygiene**
Access to clean water is crucial for personal hygiene, sanitation, and preventing the spread of diseases, contributing to public health.

### 3. **Food Preparation**
Water is necessary for cooking, washing, and preparing food, making it essential for nutrition and food safety.

### 4. **Recreation and Relaxation**
Water bodies provide opportunities for recreational activities, such as swimming, fishing, and boating, enhancing mental well-being and leisure.

### 5. **Ecosystem Support**
Water supports local ecosystems, maintaining biodiversity and providing habitats for plants and animals, which in turn benefit the community and environment.

These needs highlight the critical role water plays in daily life, health, and the overall well-being of individuals and communities.

Read More
- Hassnain Khan 10/16/2024 10:21 AM
  
  Water plays such a huge role in my daily life! It keeps me hydrated and energized, helps with personal hygiene, and is essential for cooking and cleaning. Plus, it’s a great stress reliever, whether it’s taking a bath or just spending time near water. Definitely something I’m grateful for.
  
  Read More
- Malonie Snyder 10/16/2024 9:28 AM
  
  Great list!
  
  Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Water Insulate Water Pipes and Water Heater

How do you think climate change will affect your region’s water supply? Think about the effects of weather, storms, salinity, and sea level rise, among other changes. How can you find out more about climate change’s impact to your region's water?

Dharshan Y G 10/16/2024 9:23 AM

### Effects of Climate Change on Water Supply

1. **Altered Precipitation Patterns**: Changes in rainfall can lead to either increased flooding or prolonged droughts, affecting the availability and reliability of local water sources.

2. **Increased Storm Intensity**: More frequent and severe storms can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to water contamination and erosion of waterways.

3. **Salinity Intrusion**: Rising sea levels can cause saltwater intrusion into freshwater aquifers and rivers, impacting drinking water quality and agricultural practices.

4. **Higher Temperatures**: Warmer temperatures can increase evaporation rates, reducing surface water levels and stressing existing water supplies.

5. **Ecosystem Disruption**: Changes in water temperature and flow can disrupt local ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and the health of water bodies.

### Finding Out More

1. **Local Climate Reports**: Review studies and reports from local environmental agencies or universities that focus on climate impacts in your region.

2. **Community Workshops**: Attend workshops or forums hosted by environmental organizations or local governments to learn about climate change projections and strategies.

3. **Online Resources**: Utilize websites like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) or the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) for updated information and resources.

4. **Engage with Local Groups**: Join local environmental groups or initiatives that focus on climate resilience and water conservation to stay informed and participate in community actions.

5. **Connect with Experts**: Reach out to local environmental scientists or water resource managers for insights into specific regional impacts and adaptive strategies.

By staying informed and proactive, you can better understand and address the challenges posed by climate change to your region’s water supply.

Read More
- Hassnain Khan 10/16/2024 10:22 AM
  
  Water plays such a huge role in my daily life! It keeps me hydrated and energized, helps with personal hygiene, and is essential for cooking and cleaning. Plus, it’s a great stress reliever, whether it’s taking a bath or just spending time near water. Definitely something I’m grateful for.
  
  Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Water Collect Rain Water

Trace the water that flows down the drain from your house to the largest body of water nearby. What is the route it takes?

Dharshan Y G 10/16/2024 9:22 AM

The water that flows down the drain from your house typically follows this route:

### 1. **Household Drainage System**
- **Wastewater Pipes**: Water flows through your household plumbing and enters the wastewater drainage system.

### 2. **Sewage Treatment Plant**
- **Municipal Sewage System**: The wastewater travels through underground sewer lines to a local sewage treatment plant, where it undergoes treatment to remove contaminants.

### 3. **Treated Water Release**
- **Effluent Discharge**: After treatment, the clean effluent is discharged into nearby water bodies, such as rivers or lakes, depending on the plant’s location.

### 4. **Local Waterways**
- **Rivers or Streams**: The treated water flows into local rivers or streams, contributing to the ecosystem and water supply.

### 5. **Larger Water Bodies**
- **Major River Systems or Lakes**: Eventually, the water may flow into larger rivers, lakes, or reservoirs, which could connect to even larger bodies of water, such as the ocean.

This pathway emphasizes the importance of responsible wastewater management and the impact of our household practices on the broader water ecosystem.

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Water Install a Low-Flow Showerhead

How can your region/household prepare for changing water situations in order to become more resilient?

Dharshan Y G 10/16/2024 9:21 AM

Preparing for changing water situations is crucial for building resilience in your region or household. Here are some strategies:

### 1. **Rainwater Harvesting**
Install systems to collect and store rainwater for irrigation and non-potable uses, reducing reliance on municipal water sources.

### 2. **Water-Efficient Fixtures**
Upgrade to low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets to minimize water consumption without sacrificing comfort.

### 3. **Drought-Resistant Landscaping**
Adopt xeriscaping or native plants in your garden to reduce water needs, promoting biodiversity while conserving water.

### 4. **Water Recycling**
Implement greywater systems to reuse water from sinks, showers, and laundry for irrigation or toilet flushing.

### 5. **Community Engagement**
Participate in local conservation programs and advocate for sustainable water management policies to enhance community resilience collectively.

By taking these actions, your household and community can better adapt to changing water conditions and ensure a more sustainable future.

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Water Fix Leaky Faucets

Fixing leaky faucets is one of the tasks that we can easily put off until later. Good job on completing this action! How will you use the momentum from completing this action to increase your water efficiency in other ways?

Dharshan Y G 10/16/2024 9:20 AM

Here’s how we can build on that momentum to increase water efficiency further:

1. **Conduct a Water Audit**: Assess your home for other potential leaks or areas where water usage can be reduced, such as toilets, showerheads, and irrigation systems.

2. **Install Water-Efficient Fixtures**: Consider upgrading to low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets to reduce overall water consumption.

3. **Practice Mindful Water Use**: Be conscious of your water usage habits, such as taking shorter showers, turning off the tap while brushing teeth, and only running dishwashers and washing machines with full loads.

4. **Collect Rainwater**: Set up a rainwater harvesting system to collect rainwater for irrigation and other non-potable uses, reducing reliance on municipal water.

5. **Educate Others**: Share your experience and knowledge with family and friends to encourage them to adopt water-saving practices as well, creating a community of water efficiency.

By taking these steps, you can create a more sustainable household and inspire others to do the same!

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Water Mulch the Base of Trees and Plants

Where are your nearest natural bodies of water? How might they be affected by runoff?

Dharshan Y G 10/16/2024 9:19 AM

The nearest natural bodies of water to Bengaluru include:

1. **Ulsoor Lake**: Located within the city, it's one of the largest lakes in Bengaluru.
2. **Bellandur Lake**: This is the largest lake in the city and is situated to the southeast.
3. **Varthur Lake**: Located near the eastern outskirts, it's another significant water body.
4. **Madiwala Lake**: Found in the southern part of the city, it serves as a local recreational area.

### Impact of Runoff

Runoff can significantly affect these lakes in several ways:

- **Pollution**: Rainwater can carry pollutants, such as fertilizers, pesticides, and waste from urban areas, leading to contamination of the water bodies.
- **Eutrophication**: Nutrient runoff, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, can cause algal blooms, depleting oxygen levels and harming aquatic life.
- **Sedimentation**: Increased runoff can lead to soil erosion, resulting in sedimentation that can fill lakes and disrupt ecosystems.
- **Water Quality**: The presence of heavy metals and other toxins in runoff can degrade water quality, making it unsafe for recreational use and harming wildlife.

Protecting these natural bodies of water is essential for maintaining ecological balance and ensuring safe recreational spaces for the community.

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Water Ditch the Lawn

What is the main water source in your region? How does that water get to you?

Dharshan Y G 10/16/2024 9:18 AM

The main water source for Bengaluru is the **Kaveri River**, supplemented by various other sources such as ground water and lakes. Here’s how water reaches residents:

1. **Water Treatment Plants**: Water from the Kaveri River is transported to treatment plants, where it is treated to meet safety and quality standards.

2. **Distribution Network**: After treatment, the water is pumped through an extensive network of pipelines that distribute it to different areas of the city.

3. **Storage Tanks**: The water is stored in overhead and underground tanks, which help regulate supply and pressure throughout the distribution system.

4. **Residential Connections**: Households receive water through individual connections to the municipal supply, typically on a scheduled basis, depending on the area.

5. **Alternative Sources**: In addition to the main supply, many residents also rely on borewells and water tankers to supplement their water needs, especially in areas facing supply issues.

Read More
- Jeanne Poirier 10/16/2024 7:10 PM
  
  Amazing infrastructure!
  
  Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Simplicity Research Impact Investing

How might impact investing help you better live your values?

Dharshan Y G 10/16/2024 7:52 AM

Impact investing can help align your financial choices with your values in several ways:

### 1. **Support for Social and Environmental Causes**
By investing in companies or projects that prioritize social and environmental impact, you can directly contribute to causes you care about, such as renewable energy, education, or healthcare.

### 2. **Positive Change Through Capital**
Impact investing allows you to use your capital as a force for good, helping to fund initiatives that create jobs, improve communities, and promote sustainability.

### 3. **Encouraging Responsible Business Practices**
Investing in businesses that prioritize ethical practices can encourage a shift toward more responsible corporate behavior, aligning your investments with your ethical standards.

### 4. **Long-Term Financial and Social Returns**
Impact investments often focus on sustainable business models that can yield both financial returns and measurable social benefits, ensuring your investments contribute to a better future.

### 5. **Community Engagement and Empowerment**
By choosing to invest locally or in community-focused projects, you can help empower marginalized communities and foster economic development in areas that align with your values.

Read More