Lokeshwari Dhanapal

Daily movement supports our physical and mental health. I will spend 35 minutes each day exercising in a way that feels good to me, such as walking, running, stretching, or dancing.

Adding fruits and vegetables to our meals nourishes our body and the planet. I will prepare and enjoy 3 servings of a variety of colorful fruits and veggies.

Discovering what’s nearby fosters a deeper connection to my community. I will explore 2 new places in my area, such as parks, historical sites, or local businesses.

Knowing our carbon footprint is the first step to reducing it. I will calculate my carbon impact and identify lifestyle changes that could reduce the carbon footprint and impacts on the environment. I will share my commitments to lowering my impact on the feed.

Clean energy should be accessible to all. I will support, donate, or volunteer to help programs that bring solar energy to low-income communities, helping create a more equitable and sustainable future.

Small contributions can drive big ideas. I will support a crowdfunded sustainability project to help bring innovative, eco-friendly solutions to life and share the project on social media or on the Ecochallenge feed.

Energy-efficient lighting is a bright idea. I will replace 1 incandescent light bulbs with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

Dishwashers can save water — if used wisely. I will only run the dishwasher when it’s full and skip the pre-rinse to reduce water and energy use. If I don't have a dishwasher, I will turn off the tap as often as possible while washing dishes.

A bio-blitz helps youth engage with local biodiversity. I will organize or participate in a bio-blitz with young people to identify and document the plants, animals, and insects in our area.

Access to clean water is a basic right, yet not everyone has it. I will spend 5 minutes learning about water justice issues and who is affected.

Sustainable investments shape a greener future. I will research and invest in companies, funds, or projects that supports sustainability, such as renewable energy, green tech, or sustainable practices. I will share more about who I supported with others on social media or in the Ecochallenge feed.

Reducing energy use helps protect the air and climate. I will complete an online energy audit of my home, office, or dorm room and identify my next steps for saving energy and reduce pollution.

Many common products contain harmful chemicals. I will spend 3 minutes researching chemicals found in products I use, and I will make a list of products I'd like to replace with safer options.

Every choice matters. I will purchase or switch to products made from sustainable or recycled materials to support innovation and reduce environmental impact.

Youth activists are leading the charge for a better world. I will spend 10 minutes learning about or supporting youth climate activists through sharing their work or attending their events.

When companies and governments make large-scale changes to their products and practices, it makes sustainability more accessible to the masses, in turn creating further demand for sustainable products, and the cycle continues. I will advocate for improved, sustainable food packaging through petitions, letters, or by supporting brands that prioritize eco-friendly packaging - and share my advocacy actions on the feed.

Investing in young leaders helps shape the future. I will make a donation to a program or organization that supports emerging environmental leaders.

Become a Sustainability Aficionado or invite one of your colleagues to join if you're already tuned into the program. 

Get involved! Join your local Green Team to connect and work on local sustainability initiatives. Or, participate in one of the many Earth Month activities they've organized.

Kick off your meetings with a "Sustainability Moment" to keep environmental awareness top of mind. Even better, develop new "Sustainability Moments" tailored to your specific location and work, making the connection between sustainability and your daily activities even stronger!

Learn about our new Sustainability Pathways initiative and implement 1 action under each of the pillars from the most appropriate persona.

Learn about sustainability by taking two Green Pill modules on Emerson Learn. Choose the topics that appeal to you most!

Plastic bags do not always end up in landfills and if they aren't properly disposed of. In nature, they can be mistaken for food by many wild animals and harm wildlife. When I go shopping, I will be sure to bring my own bags to reduce waste and the chance that plastic bags could find their way into wildlife habitats.

Good sleep is essential for a healthy body and mind. I will prioritize getting 7 minutes of quality sleep each night and develop a bedtime routine that supports rest and relaxation.