Kelsey Howe

I’ll take a short pre-survey to share what motivated me to join — and earn 15 points! (If I already took the survey by email, I’ll just mark this action complete to get my points.)

Rainwater collection reduces water waste and supports local needs. I will install a rain barrel or collect rainwater to use for outdoor tasks, such as watering plants or cleaning.

Fallen leaves, logs, and brush provide shelter and food for wildlife. I will leave natural features in my yard or community space to help strengthen biodiversity and soil resilience.

Healthy soils and resilient food systems depend on how we grow food. I will spend 60 minutes learning about farming practices such as regenerative agriculture, agroecology, or permaculture, and reflect on how they support both people and the planet.

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.

Conserving water helps protect this precious resource. I will shorten my showers to 5 minutes to save water and reduce energy use - each time saving up to 20 gallons (75 L) of water!

Indigenous communities have long stewarded lands, waters, and ecosystems using practices rooted in intergenerational knowledge and deep connections to nature. I will spend 30 minutes learning how Indigenous stewardship supports biodiversity and resilience, and reflect on lessons I can apply.

Wildlife observations can help researchers and communities understand and protect biodiversity. I will download a wildlife monitoring app and log 3 animal or plant species I discover.

Learn more about sustainability efforts at Allina Health. Search for Environmental Sustainability on the AKN.

Swapping and sharing resources reduces waste and builds community bonds. I will participate in 3 swaps or sharing activities, like borrowing items, attending or hosting a swap meet, or giving away items I no longer need to support a sharing economy with friends, family, colleagues or neighbors.

Regular health check-ups help prevent problems before they start. I will schedule or attend a medical, dental, or mental health check-up to take care of my well-being.

There are many amazing projects supporting wildlife and their habitats. I will choose a project or organization to support that helps species and habitats I care about and make a donation.

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.

Confirm that you know where the nearest fire extinguisher is. And take a moment to confirm you remember how to use it with our PASS acronym: a. Pull the pin b. Aim the hose c. Squeeze the handle d. Sweep side to side