Rachel Orrison

I will volunteer 8 hours in my community.

During the workday, I will schedule time for daily breaks during work days to practice work-life balance.

On average, a tree absorbs 10 kilograms (22 pounds) of carbon dioxide yearly during the first 20 years. To do my part, I will plant 2 trees in my community, public parks, or backyard.

I will replace 15 minute(s) per day typically spent inside (computer time, watching television, etc.) with quality time outside exercising, enjoying the sunrise/sunset, gardening, journaling, or practicing gratitude for nature.

I will express my love and gratitude for our planet by writing a love letter, poem, song or taking a picture. I will share this in the Ecochallenge feed or on my social media.

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.

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

Use a reusable shopping bag or no bag at all to cut down on your waste from the grocery store!

I will mend clothing for myself, family or friends.

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.

I will research sustainable alternatives to large purchases such as: cars, roofs, landscaping, concrete work, siding, paint, etc.

I will spend 5 minutes each day practicing mindfulness.

I will contact my energy company to find out how to sign up for my utility company's clean/renewable energy option.

I spend 5 minutes analyzing my recent utility bills, which might include electricity, gas, or water to see what my current usage is and determine if I can reduce my energy and water use.

I will save up to 6 gallons (23 L) of water each day by taking 5-minute showers. Tip: Use a timer to practice or count to 60 a few times.

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

I will watch 1 documentaries about food, water, or basic needs.

I will watch 1 documentaries about education or work.

I will call my elected officials to ask what they are doing regarding equitable gender participation and representation in my region.

I will watch 1 documentaries about equity, gender, health, or peace.

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

I will complete an energy audit of my home through my local utility providers and identify my next steps for saving energy.

I will complete an online energy audit of my home, office, or dorm room and identify my next steps for saving energy.

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

I will watch 1 documentaries about climate change.