Parin Patel

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 1 trees in my community, public parks, or backyard.

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 make a few homemade cleaning products.

I will replace 30 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 complete an online energy audit of my home, office, or dorm room and identify my next steps for saving energy.

Each day, I will track my purchases to identify my spending habits. This will allow me to see what purchases can be reduced.

I will have a conversation with one or more nonprofit organizations I want to be involved with.

I spend 45 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 contact my energy company to find out how to sign up for my utility company's clean/renewable energy option.

I will replace 20 incandescent light bulb(s) with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

I will replace manual thermostats with smart ones.

I will watch 2 documentaries about economy, energy, or industry.

To reduce CO2 emissions each day, I will cut my car trip mileage by only taking necessary trips.

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

I will spend 45 minutes each day practicing mindfulness.

Each day, I will spend 45 minutes exploring a new area around my neighborhood (e.g., park, water body, nearby trail, community garden, green space, etc.).

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.

At least 30% of crops and 90% of flowering plants rely on pollinators to produce fruit. I will plant pollinator-friendly plants in my area to support local pollinators.

I will watch 5 documentaries about climate change.

I will become a savvy produce shopper when buying organic and non-organic items.

I will spend 30 minutes learning about water justice in my region.

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

I will install a heat pump in my home or business.

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

Have you recently taken steps in embracing an eco-friendlier lifestyle outside the office? If yes, share your “greenecdote” with us. Email bluegoesgreen@archgroup.com and your story may be featured on Access for Earth Month.