Bri Insley

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.

Small changes can make a big difference for health and sustainability. Using what I learned from auditing ingredients in the products I use, I will replace 1 toxic or harmful products I use with safer, eco-friendly alternatives.

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.

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.

Rainwater collection reduces water waste and supports gardens. I will install a rain barrel or collect rainwater to use for 1 outdoor tasks, such as watering plants or cleaning.

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.

Growing plants can be rewarding and can create habitats big and small for wildlife. And, we can grow things almost anywhere! I will spend 20 minutes researching options for growing plants either inside or outside.

Landscaping with native plants, gardening, and having plants inside can have benefits for nature and our health. I will plant or adopt a new plant or grow one from seeds and post a photo of it to the feed.

Studies have shown that when we spend consistent time in nature, our health improves, our creativity increases, and our connection to the planet gets stronger. Each day of the Ecochallenge, I will spend 30 minutes outside, then share my observations, reflections, and learnings on the feed.

Swapping and sharing resources reduces waste and builds community bonds. I will participate in 1 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.

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.

Leave No Trace means enjoying nature responsibly by minimizing our impact and leaving the environment as we found it, or better. I will spend 15 minutes learning about the seven core principles to minimize my impact while enjoying the outdoors.

Many common products contain harmful chemicals. I will spend 30 minutes researching chemicals found in products I use, and I will make a list of products I'd like to replace with safer options.

Idling cars wastes fuel, contributes to climate change, and pollutes the air in our communities. I will turn off my engine when waiting in my car to reduce air pollution and carbon emissions.

Experiencing nature together builds appreciation and connection. I will spend 30 minutes enjoying an outdoor activity with a young person, such as hiking, visiting a park or nature center, or exploring a trail.