Maurene O’Farrell

Leave No Trace means enjoying nature responsibly by minimizing our impact and leaving the environment as we found it, or better. I will spend 5 minutes learning about the seven core principles to minimize my impact while enjoying the outdoors.

Come by the Agora on April 22nd and visit the different booths and activities. Bring your own mug for some free fairtrade hot chocolate.

On April 23 from 11:30-1:00pm in AME-120, learn about all the “other” bees who have been living in the shadow of the honey bee for far too long. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN: -Introduction to the wonderful world of wild bees -Gain skills on how to identify wild bees -Learn what you can do to help them thrive on campus & in your own backyard

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.

Join us in the Agora on April 23-24 for our famous de-stress fest. Animal therapy, massage chairs, sound room and more!

Learn about the new provincial recycling rules and get useful tips for sorting materials at home. Presentation offered by Société VIA April 17th in AME-606 12:30-1:30pm

Bees and other pollinators are vital to ecosystems and agriculture. I will spending 10 minutes learning about local pollinators and why they are so important.

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

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.

The more we know about the wildlife around us, the better we can protect species. I will download a wildlife monitoring app and log 10 animal or plant species I discover.

Come to AME-606 on April 10th for a plant sharing workshop with Josee Lanouette. Learn about how to care for common house plants and share your own tips with others. 12:30-1:30pm

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.

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.

Discovering what’s nearby fosters a deeper connection to my community. I will explore 1 new places in my area, such as parks, historical sites, or local businesses.

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

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.

Belonging to a group can help build friendships and a sense of purpose. I will explore online or in-person groups or clubs that share my interests or goals and join a group to connect with others.

Being a responsible tourist means not disturbing wildlife and choosing eco-friendly tour operators and destinations that prioritize wildlife conservation and respect animal welfare. I will spend 10 minutes researching ways to travel responsibly to ensure my adventures support, rather than harm, wildlife and their habitats.

Daily movement supports our physical and mental health. I will spend 15 minutes each day exercising in a way that feels good to me, such as walking, running, stretching, or dancing.

Growing plants can be rewarding and can create habitats big and small for wildlife. And, we can grow things almost anywhere! I will spend 10 minutes researching options for growing plants either inside or outside.