Michelle Austin-Dehn

Through my Earth Month Ecochallenge feed, I will share with others an environmentally friendly habit I have cultivated.

Each day, I will go on a plog or plalk for 10 minutes and collect 10 items of litter.

Studies show a grass lawn is water intensive and on average it require about 30 percent of a household’s water consumption. I will do one or more of the following actions in my yard or community to conserve water and improve habitat: plant indigenous plants, landscape with water-efficient plants, add mulching, replace a lawn, and/or use eco-friendly fertilizers.

At least 30% of crops and 90% of flowering plants rely on pollinators to produce fruit. I will plant pollinator-friendly plants in my area to support local pollinators.

I will spend 5 minutes each day practicing mindfulness.

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

I will calculate my water footprint and look for a few ways I can reduce consumption or waste.

I will try a new vegan or vegetarian recipe and share how it turns out on the Ecochallenge feed, or with family and friends.

I will organize a book club to read about climate change and sustainability.

Within my community at home or work, I will organize or attend a local cleanup event.

I will watch 1 documentaries about economy, energy, or industry.

I will calculate the carbon emissions associated with my household and consider how lifestyle changes could reduce the carbon footprint and impacts on the environment.