Earth Month Ecochallenge 2024: Conservation

April 1 - April 30, 2024

Samarth Shenoy

""Our mission is to preserve and protect the natural world for present and future generations by promoting environmental stewardship, conservation, and sustainable practices. We are committed to fostering awareness, advocating for policies that prioritize environmental sustainability, and collaborating with communities, governments, and organizations to address pressing environmental challenges. Through education, innovation, and collective action, we strive to create a healthier, more resilient planet where all living beings thrive in harmony with nature."

POINTS TOTAL

0 TODAY
0 THIS WEEK
1,026 TOTAL

participant impact

UP TO

2,055

miles

not traveled by car
UP TO

2,055

miles

traveled by bus
UP TO

27

pounds of CO2

have been saved
UP TO

330

pieces of litter

picked up
UP TO

1.0

waste audit

conducted
UP TO

271

single-use bags

not sent to the landfill
UP TO

1.0

water footprint

calculated
UP TO

5.0

public officials or leaders

contacted
UP TO

2.0

community events

hosted or attended
UP TO

10

advocacy actions

completed
UP TO

60

minutes

spent outdoors
UP TO

5.0

trees

planted
UP TO

4,338

minutes

spent learning

Samarth's actions

Action Track: Community

ATTEND THE ECOCHALLENGE CONSERVATION WEBINAR

On Wed 24th April, I will attend the Earth Month Ecochallenge Webinar on Conservation to learn about what individuals, companies and other organizations can do to promote biodiversity and nature protection.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Action Track: Community

TAKE PICTURES AND SHARE ON LINKEDIN

I will take at least one photograph that is connected with this year's theme of Nature Conservation & Biodiversity (for example an urban park, bee hives, birds and other animals...) and I will post it on LinkedIn with the hashtags #EarthMonthEcochallenge #EarthMonthAtEmerson.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Action Track: Community

SIGN UP TO RECEIVE NEWS ON SUSTAINABILITY AT EMERSON

I will sign up to the Sustainability Aficionados distribution list to receive global news on sustainability at Emerson, including world news and Greening OF, BY, and WITH news.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Action Track: Community

JOIN OR CREATE A GREEN TEAM AT EMERSON

I will continue to contribute to Emerson's environmental sustainability goals beyond April by learning more about the Global Green Teams Network, joining a team near me, or maybe even creating a new team.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Climate + Air

Use Public Transit

Public transportation reduces pollution, improves community, and creates safe streets. I will use public transit 60 miles per day and avoid sending up to (___) lbs of CO2 into Earth's atmosphere.

COMPLETED 30
DAILY ACTIONS

Biodiversity + Wildlife

Beauty and Personal Products

Beauty and personal products can create a lot of waste. I will spend 10 minutes learning about the beauty and body products I use to see if they are refillable or recyclable. If not, I will reach out to the manufacturer to advocate for those options.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Biodiversity + Wildlife

Use Reusable Bags

Plastic bags can be mistaken for food by many wild animals and can end up in habitats that harm wildlife. I will not accept any disposable bags when making purchases, including produce bags.

COMPLETED 30
DAILY ACTIONS

Climate + Air

Choose Renewable Energy

Renewable energy options are becoming more widespread and accessible. Not only are they good for the planet, they can help save money as well. I will sign up for my utility company's clean/renewable energy option. If my utility does not offer one, I will contact them to advocate for this option in the future.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Climate + Air

Consume only Needs vs Wants

The more stuff we consume, the more greenhouse gasses we put into the atmosphere. I will adopt a "Needs Vs. Wants" approach this month and only buy things I need.

COMPLETED 30
DAILY ACTIONS

Land + Forests

Personal Waste Audit

The waste we create daily can go unnoticed. I will track the waste I create in a day and post a photo log on the feed to see how much I create and where I can make different choices to reduce my waste going forward.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Freshwater + Oceans

Low Water Gardening

Grass lawns are water-intensive and on average require about 30 percent of a household’s water consumption. Native plants are water-efficient and help maintain the balance and diversity of local ecosystems. I will plant native species with water-efficient plants to conserve water and improve the habitat, then post a photo on the feed to share.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Action Track: Community

Share My "Why"

I will record a video to share why I am taking action this Earth Month, a sustainable swap I've made, and/or a local conservation effort in my area.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Action Track: Community

Sustainability Lunch and Learn

Learning in a social setting can inspire connection and change. I will work with a friend or colleague to plan and host a lunch and learn at work, school, in my neighborhood or other location to learn more about an environmental topic important to me. After the lunch and learn, I will share more about it on the feed.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Freshwater + Oceans

Join a Cleanup Effort

I will organize or participate in a trash pickup at a local river, beach, or natural body of water.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Freshwater + Oceans

Understand My Water Footprint

Each of us has a water footprint, directly linked to our daily activities as well as the water required in the production of things we use each day. Understanding our water use is important for a healthy planet. I will calculate my water footprint and look for a few ways I can reduce consumption or waste, then share what I learned on the feed.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Freshwater + Oceans

Reduce Pollutants in Cleaning

Understanding cleaning product ingredients and their effect on water and biodiversity is helpful to our consumer choices. I will spend 10 minutes learning about how cleaning products affect our water and try making my own cleaning products to reduce pollutants.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Land + Forests

Zero Waste Day

The impacts of our waste are far reaching. I will create zero waste for an entire day and share my reflections and learnings on the feed.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Land + Forests

Choose Eco-Friendly Wood and Paper

Trees provide food and habitat for local wildlife species, shade our streets and homes, and help keep our air and water clean by capturing pollutants. Buying products that help protect forests makes a difference. I will only purchase wood, furniture, and paper products from ecologically certified sources such as Forest Stewardship Council.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Land + Forests

Explore My Area

When we explore natural spaces around us, our connections with them change. I will spend 15 minutes exploring a new area around my neighborhood, office, or campus (e.g., park, water body, nearby trail, community garden, green space, etc.).

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Land + Forests

Advocate for Forest Protection

Using my voice can help create a more sustainable and just world. I will contact 1 local, regional, or national decision makers to advocate for public policy that protects forests and improves their ability to sequester carbon and nourish biodiversity.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Land + Forests

Keep My Community Clean

At times it may not feel like it's up to us to keep our community clean and healthy, but we all have a role to play. Each day I am outside, I will pick up any litter I see.

COMPLETED 30
DAILY ACTIONS

Land + Forests

Plant Trees

Trees capture carbon and produce oxygen that is essential to life on earth. I will support this important piece of nature by organizing or joining a community group to plant 2 native trees in my community, public parks, office location, campus or backyard.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Freshwater + Oceans

Smart Seafood Choices

We need to support healthy seafood populations. I will spend 10 minutes learning about sustainable seafood choices, commit to making better seafood choices for a healthier ocean, and share what I learned on the feed.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Action Track: Community

Borrow Before I Buy

Why buy something I will only use once or a few times if someone nearby has it for me to borrow, and why not share something I have that someone may only need a few times a year? To reduce my consumption and waste, I will create or support the sharing economy with friends, family, colleagues or neighbors.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Climate + Air

Declutter My Home Without the Landfill

Each day, I will learn about responsible ways to dispose of items and de-clutter, clean, donate, repurpose or recycle unneeded items in my home to make sure that what I get rid of doesn't go into the landfill.

COMPLETED 30
DAILY ACTIONS

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?

Samarth Shenoy 4/28/2024 10:47 AM

To make a Better Tomorrow

Read More
- clindon edward 4/28/2024 10:50 AM
  
  Yes we will...
  
  Read More
Samarth Shenoy 4/28/2024 10:34 AM

Freshwater and oceans are integral components of Earth's hydrosphere, each playing vital roles in sustaining life and shaping our planet's environment. Freshwater, found in rivers, lakes, and underground aquifers, is essential for drinking, agriculture, and supporting diverse ecosystems. However, freshwater resources face threats such as pollution and over-extraction, highlighting the need for sustainable management practices. Oceans cover the majority of the Earth's surface and are crucial for regulating the climate, supporting marine life, and providing valuable ecosystem services. Despite their vastness, oceans are increasingly impacted by human activities, including overfishing, pollution, and climate change, necessitating urgent conservation efforts. Recognizing the interconnectedness of freshwater and oceans, integrated approaches to water management and conservation are essential for safeguarding these critical resources and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

Read More
- Vijay Jawade 4/29/2024 2:11 AM
  
  Always problem when we do exploitation! We should be Minimalist!
  
  Read More
Samarth Shenoy 4/28/2024 10:16 AM
Freshwater and oceans are two distinct yet interconnected components of the Earth's hydrosphere, each playing crucial roles in sustaining life and shaping the planet's environment. Here's a closer look at each:
1. Freshwater:
  
  Freshwater refers to water that has low concentrations of dissolved salts and is found in rivers, lakes, ponds, streams, and underground aquifers.
  
  It is essential for various human activities, including drinking, agriculture, industry, and sanitation.
  
  Freshwater ecosystems support a wide range of plant and animal species, many of which are adapted to specific freshwater habitats.
  
  Human activities such as pollution, over-extraction, deforestation, and habitat destruction have led to degradation of freshwater resources, threatening water quality and availability.
  
  Sustainable management practices, including water conservation, pollution control, watershed protection, and ecosystem restoration, are crucial for maintaining the health and integrity of freshwater ecosystems and ensuring reliable access to clean water for present and future generations.
2. Oceans:
  
  Oceans cover approximately 71% of the Earth's surface and contain about 97% of the planet's water.
  
  They play a vital role in regulating the Earth's climate by absorbing solar radiation, storing heat, and driving global weather patterns and ocean currents.
  
  Oceans support a vast diversity of marine life, ranging from microscopic plankton to large whales, and provide essential ecosystem services such as food, oxygen production, carbon sequestration, and nutrient cycling.
  
  Marine ecosystems are under increasing pressure from human activities, including overfishing, pollution, habitat destruction, coastal development, and climate change.
  
  Conservation and sustainable management of marine resources, establishment of marine protected areas, reduction of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and adaptation to climate change are critical for safeguarding the health and resilience of ocean ecosystems and ensuring the sustainability of marine resources and services.
While freshwater and oceans have distinct characteristics and face different challenges, they are interconnected through the water cycle, with freshwater sources ultimately flowing into the oceans. Therefore, integrated approaches to water management and conservation are essential for addressing the complex challenges facing both freshwater and marine environments and achieving sustainable use and stewardship of Earth's water resources.
Read More
Samarth Shenoy 4/28/2024 10:15 AM
- Conservation efforts, sustainable forest management, reforestation, and the establishment of protected areas are crucial for maintaining the integrity and resilience of forest ecosystems and ensuring their continued provision of benefits to society and the environment.
Read More
- Madesh C 4/28/2024 10:18 AM
  
  True..
  
  Read More
Samarth Shenoy 4/28/2024 10:14 AM
Land and forests are integral components of the Earth's terrestrial ecosystems, playing essential roles in supporting biodiversity, regulating the climate, and providing valuable ecosystem services. Here's an overview of each:
1. Land:
  
  Land encompasses the solid surface of the Earth, including continents, islands, and other landforms.
  
  It provides habitat for a diverse array of plant and animal species, supporting biodiversity and ecological balance.
  
  Land serves as the foundation for human civilizations, providing space for agriculture, settlements, infrastructure, and resource extraction.
  
  However, land resources are finite and vulnerable to degradation and desertification due to factors such as deforestation, soil erosion, urbanization, and industrial activities.
  
  Sustainable land management practices, including afforestation, reforestation, soil conservation, and land-use planning, are essential to preserve and restore the health and productivity of terrestrial ecosystems.
2. Forests:
  
  Forests are dense and extensive areas of land primarily covered by trees and other woody vegetation.
  
  They are critical for carbon sequestration, helping mitigate climate change by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
  
  Forests provide habitat for a vast array of plant and animal species, including many endangered and endemic species.
  
  They also supply essential ecosystem services, such as regulating water flow, preventing soil erosion, purifying air and water, and providing recreational and cultural benefits.
  
  However, forests face numerous threats, including deforestation, illegal logging, forest degradation, habitat fragmentation, and climate change.
  
  Conservation efforts, sustainable forest management, reforestation, and the establishment of protected areas are crucial for maintaining the integrity and resilience of forest ecosystems and ensuring their continued provision of benefits to society and the environment.
In summary, land and forests are invaluable resources that support life on Earth and provide numerous ecological, economic, and social benefits. Protecting and sustainably managing these ecosystems are essential for biodiversity conservation, climate mitigation, and human well-being.
Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Land + Forests Explore My Area

Where did you go for your walk or hike in nature? What were the benefits of doing so?
Samarth Shenoy 4/28/2024 10:12 AM
Land and forests are integral components of the Earth's terrestrial ecosystems, playing essential roles in supporting biodiversity, regulating the climate, and providing valuable ecosystem services. Here's an overview of each:

Land:

Land encompasses the solid surface of the Earth, including continents, islands, and other landforms.

It provides habitat for a diverse array of plant and animal species, supporting biodiversity and ecological balance.

Land serves as the foundation for human civilizations, providing space for agriculture, settlements, infrastructure, and resource extraction.

However, land resources are finite and vulnerable to degradation and desertification due to factors such as deforestation, soil erosion, urbanization, and industrial activities.

Sustainable land management practices, including afforestation, reforestation, soil conservation, and land-use planning, are essential to preserve and restore the health and productivity of terrestrial ecosystems.

Forests:

Forests are dense and extensive areas of land primarily covered by trees and other woody vegetation.

They are critical for carbon sequestration, helping mitigate climate change by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Forests provide habitat for a vast array of plant and animal species, including many endangered and endemic species.

They also supply essential ecosystem services, such as regulating water flow, preventing soil erosion, purifying air and water, and providing recreational and cultural benefits.

However, forests face numerous threats, including deforestation, illegal logging, forest degradation, habitat fragmentation, and climate change.

Conservation efforts, sustainable forest management, reforestation, and the establishment of protected areas are crucial for maintaining the integrity and resilience of forest ecosystems and ensuring their continued provision of benefits to society and the environment.

In summary, land and forests are invaluable resources that support life on Earth and provide numerous ecological, economic, and social benefits. Protecting and sustainably managing these ecosystems are essential for biodiversity conservation, climate mitigation, and human well-being.
Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Freshwater + Oceans Reduce Pollutants in Cleaning

What did you learn about ingredients in our cleaning products and how they impact water and biodiversity? Did you try making your own cleaning products? If so, how did it go?
Samarth Shenoy 4/28/2024 10:12 AM
Freshwater and oceans are vital components of the Earth's hydrosphere, playing crucial roles in sustaining life and regulating the planet's climate. Here's a brief overview of each:

Freshwater:

Freshwater is found in rivers, lakes, streams, and underground aquifers.

It is essential for drinking, agriculture, industry, and sanitation.

Freshwater ecosystems support a diverse range of plant and animal species, contributing to biodiversity.

Human activities, such as pollution, over-extraction, and habitat destruction, threaten the quality and availability of freshwater resources.

Sustainable management practices, including water conservation, pollution control, and ecosystem restoration, are essential to ensure the long-term health and availability of freshwater resources.

Oceans:

Oceans cover about 71% of the Earth's surface and contain 97% of the planet's water.

They play a critical role in regulating the climate by absorbing and redistributing solar energy and storing vast amounts of heat.

Oceans support a rich biodiversity of marine life, from microscopic plankton to large whales, and provide food and livelihoods for millions of people around the world.

Oceans also serve as major transportation routes for global trade and commerce.

However, oceans face significant threats, including overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change-induced phenomena such as ocean acidification and sea level rise.

Conservation efforts, marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries management, and reducing carbon emissions are essential to protect and preserve ocean ecosystems for future generations.

Overall, freshwater and oceans are interconnected components of the Earth's biosphere, and their health and sustainability are critical for the well-being of both human societies and the planet as a whole.
Read More
- Edna Jaycinth 4/29/2024 11:50 AM
  
  Interesting!
  
  Read More
- Edna Jaycinth 4/29/2024 11:50 AM
  
  Interesting!
  
  Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Freshwater + Oceans Reduce Pollutants in Cleaning

What did you learn about ingredients in our cleaning products and how they impact water and biodiversity? Did you try making your own cleaning products? If so, how did it go?
Samarth Shenoy 4/28/2024 10:12 AM
Freshwater and oceans are vital components of the Earth's hydrosphere, playing crucial roles in sustaining life and regulating the planet's climate. Here's a brief overview of each:

Freshwater:

Freshwater is found in rivers, lakes, streams, and underground aquifers.

It is essential for drinking, agriculture, industry, and sanitation.

Freshwater ecosystems support a diverse range of plant and animal species, contributing to biodiversity.

Human activities, such as pollution, over-extraction, and habitat destruction, threaten the quality and availability of freshwater resources.

Sustainable management practices, including water conservation, pollution control, and ecosystem restoration, are essential to ensure the long-term health and availability of freshwater resources.

Oceans:

Oceans cover about 71% of the Earth's surface and contain 97% of the planet's water.

They play a critical role in regulating the climate by absorbing and redistributing solar energy and storing vast amounts of heat.

Oceans support a rich biodiversity of marine life, from microscopic plankton to large whales, and provide food and livelihoods for millions of people around the world.

Oceans also serve as major transportation routes for global trade and commerce.

However, oceans face significant threats, including overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change-induced phenomena such as ocean acidification and sea level rise.

Conservation efforts, marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries management, and reducing carbon emissions are essential to protect and preserve ocean ecosystems for future generations.

Overall, freshwater and oceans are interconnected components of the Earth's biosphere, and their health and sustainability are critical for the well-being of both human societies and the planet as a whole.
Read More
- Edna Jaycinth 4/29/2024 3:07 AM
  
  Interesting info!
  
  Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Freshwater + Oceans Understand My Water Footprint

What did you learn about your water footprint and what are you going to do to reduce and be aware of the water you use?
Samarth Shenoy 4/28/2024 10:11 AM
Monitor Water Usage: Start by monitoring your water usage to understand where and how much water you're using. Keep track of your water bills and look for patterns or areas where you can make improvements.

Fix Leaks: Even small leaks can waste a significant amount of water over time. Regularly check for leaks in faucets, toilets, and pipes, and promptly repair any issues.

Install Water-Efficient Fixtures: Consider replacing old fixtures with water-efficient models. Low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets can significantly reduce water usage without sacrificing performance.

Be Mindful of Daily Habits: Simple changes in daily habits can make a big difference. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, take shorter showers, and only run the dishwasher or washing machine with full loads.

Water-Saving Appliances: Upgrade to water-saving appliances, such as ENERGY STAR-rated dishwashers and washing machines. These appliances use less water and energy, resulting in cost savings and reduced environmental impact.

Collect Rainwater: Install a rain barrel to collect rainwater for outdoor use, such as watering plants or washing cars. This reduces the demand for treated water and helps conserve water resources.

Xeriscaping: Consider xeriscaping your landscape with drought-tolerant plants that require less water. Mulching garden beds can also help retain moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.

Educate Others: Spread awareness about water conservation practices among your friends, family, and community. Encourage others to adopt water-saving habits and participate in water conservation initiatives.

By implementing these strategies and being mindful of your water usage, you can reduce your water footprint and contribute to water conservation efforts.
Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Action Track: Community Borrow Before I Buy

How did you participate in the sharing economy? (Consider posting a photo!) What are the benefits of a sharing economy? How could a sharing economy change the dynamics you have with friends, family and/or neighbors?
Samarth Shenoy 4/28/2024 10:10 AM
The sharing economy, characterized by the sharing or renting of goods and services rather than ownership, offers several advantages. Here are a few:

Cost Savings: Sharing resources allows individuals to access goods and services at a lower cost compared to owning them outright. This can lead to significant savings, especially for items that are infrequently used.

Access over Ownership: Instead of purchasing items that may only be used occasionally, individuals can access them when needed through sharing platforms. This reduces waste and promotes sustainability by maximizing the utility of existing resources.

Community Building: Sharing economy platforms often foster a sense of community by connecting individuals who have resources to spare with those in need. This can strengthen social ties and create opportunities for collaboration and mutual support.

Environmental Benefits: By promoting the use of existing resources rather than manufacturing new ones, the sharing economy can reduce environmental impact and contribute to sustainability efforts.

In terms of changing dynamics with friends, family, and neighbors, the sharing economy can facilitate greater collaboration and resource-sharing within communities. For example:

Friends and neighbors may collaborate to share tools, equipment, or vehicles, reducing the need for each household to own individual items.

Families may use sharing platforms to rent out unused space in their homes or share childcare responsibilities with neighbors, creating a support network within the community.

Sharing economy platforms can also enable individuals to share skills and expertise with others, fostering a culture of learning and knowledge exchange within communities.

Overall, the sharing economy has the potential to promote efficiency, sustainability, and community engagement, leading to positive changes in how individuals interact with each other and utilize resources.
Read More