Soumya R

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.

Youth-led projects drive innovation and change. I will support youth-led environmental projects by offering time, resources, or encouragement and share how I supported youth on the Ecochallenge feed.

Investing in young leaders helps shape the future. I will make a donation to a program or organization that supports emerging environmental leaders.

Knowledge of local resources helps communities thrive. I will learn about local resources, especially mutual aid groups, and share them with others on social media, in conversations, or in other ways that help spread the word.

When companies and governments make large-scale changes to their products and practices, it makes sustainability more accessible to the masses, in turn creating further demand for sustainable products, and the cycle continues. I will advocate for improved, sustainable food packaging through petitions, letters, or by supporting brands that prioritize eco-friendly packaging - and share my advocacy actions on the feed.

Clean energy should be accessible to all. I will support, donate, or volunteer to help programs that bring solar energy to low-income communities, helping create a more equitable and sustainable future.

Sustainable investments shape a greener future. I will research and invest in companies, funds, or projects that supports sustainability, such as renewable energy, green tech, or sustainable practices. I will share more about who I supported with others on social media or in the Ecochallenge feed.

A community can be brought to its knees without dependable power, often affecting the most vulnerable. I will write 2 letters or emails per day to a public official or company to advocate for a more resilient power grid (e.g. microgrids, solar storage).

Learning by doing empowers youth. I will conduct an environmental audit — such as a home energy or waste audit — alongside a young person to teach them practical sustainability skills and see what I learn from them as well.

Youth activists are leading the charge for a better world. I will spend 50 minutes learning about or supporting youth climate activists through sharing their work or attending their events.

Plastic bags do not always end up in landfills and if they aren't properly disposed of. In nature, they can be mistaken for food by many wild animals and harm wildlife. When I go shopping, I will be sure to bring my own bags to reduce waste and the chance that plastic bags could find their way into wildlife habitats.

Schools play a crucial role in youth development and be hubs for sustainability. I will donate funds, time, or supplies to 5 local schools to support environmental education, field trips, sustainability projects, and youth empowerment. I will share how I supported schools on the feed.

Good sleep is essential for a healthy body and mind. I will prioritize getting 7 minutes of quality sleep each night and develop a bedtime routine that supports rest and relaxation.

Adding fruits and vegetables to our meals nourishes our body and the planet. I will prepare and enjoy 3 servings of a variety of colorful fruits and veggies.

I will explore alternatives to using a car — such as walking, biking, carpooling, micro-mobility options, or public transit to reduce my carbon footprint. I will use alternative transit 10 miles per day.

Kick off your meetings with a "Sustainability Moment" to keep environmental awareness top of mind. Even better, develop new "Sustainability Moments" tailored to your specific location and work, making the connection between sustainability and your daily activities even stronger!

Learn about our new Sustainability Pathways initiative and implement 1 action under each of the pillars from the most appropriate persona.

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.

Daily movement supports our physical and mental health. I will spend 30 minutes each day exercising in a way that feels good to me, such as walking, running, stretching, or dancing.

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

Get involved! Join your local Green Team to connect and work on local sustainability initiatives. Or, participate in one of the many Earth Month activities they've organized.

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.

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.

Become a Sustainability Aficionado or invite one of your colleagues to join if you're already tuned into the program. 

Learn about sustainability by taking two Green Pill modules on Emerson Learn. Choose the topics that appeal to you most!