Hardik Rathore

Cutting back on refined sugar can improve energy, mood, and overall health. I will limit my intake of sugary snacks and drinks by reducing refined sugar in meals or snacks each day.

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.

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.

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.

Leave No Trace means enjoying nature responsibly by minimizing our impact and leaving the environment as we found it, or better. I will spend 30 minutes learning about the seven core principles to minimize my impact while enjoying the outdoors.

Meditation helps build resilience and clarity. I will spend 20 minutes each day to meditate or create a moment of silence each day to reflect on things important to me.

Trees provide food and habitat for local wildlife species, shade our streets and homes, and help keep our air and water clean by capturing pollutants. I will learn about certification labels and buy wood and paper products certified as sustainable or recycled to protect forests and reduce environmental harm.

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.

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.

Regular health check-ups help prevent problems before they start. I will schedule or attend a medical, dental, or mental health check-up to take care of my well-being.

Donating unused items and least-used clothes to those in need.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Adding fruits and vegetables to our meals nourishes our body and the planet. I will prepare and enjoy 2 servings of a variety of colorful fruits and veggies.

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 20 minutes researching ways to travel responsibly to ensure my adventures support, rather than harm, wildlife and their habitats.

Bees and other pollinators are vital to ecosystems and agriculture. I will spending 30 minutes learning about local pollinators and why they are so important.

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.

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

Energy-efficient lighting is a bright idea. I will replace 5 incandescent light bulbs with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

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.