Maggie Ali

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.

Access to clean water is a basic right, yet not everyone has it. I will spend 30 minutes learning about water justice issues and who is affected.

After learning about the Principles of Leave No Trace, I will take at least one action to minimize my impact on the outdoors while enjoying nature. I will post what I tried to the feed to encourage others to do the same!

Leave No Trace means enjoying nature responsibly by minimizing our impact and leaving the environment as we found it, or better. I will spend 30 minutes learning about the seven core principles to minimize my impact while enjoying the outdoors.

Producing 1 kg of beef emits as much greenhouse gas as driving 150 miles, meanwhile, 1 kg of veggies or grains leaves a much lighter footprint! This week, I’ll shrink my climate impact by having 2 meatless meals and/or 0 vegan meals each day.

Small acts of kindness and gratitude can brighten someone's day and create a positive ripple effect. I will express gratitude to 10 people or perform 5 random acts of kindness to spread joy and connection.

A clean community benefits everyone. Each day I am outside, I will pick up 5 pieces of litter to keep my community clean.

Sites of cultural and spiritual significance hold deep meaning for many communities, particularly Indigenous peoples. I will learn about or visit a site near me that is significant to the history, culture, or environment of the area. I will approach my visit with respect by researching its importance and guidelines beforehand, reflecting on how we can preserve these spaces for future generations.

Environmental and social justice are deeply connected. I will spend 30 minutes learning about how environmental issues affect communities differently (especially communities of color) and explore solutions that promote equity and address both social and environmental challenges.

Learning by doing empowers youth. I will conduct an environmental audit — such as a home energy or waste audit — alongside a young person to teach them practical sustainability skills and see what I learn from them as well.

Many common products contain harmful chemicals. I will spend 100 minutes researching chemicals found in products I use, and I will make a list of products I'd like to replace with safer options.

Energy-efficient lighting is a bright idea. I will replace 16 incandescent light bulbs with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.