Melinda Woollen

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Experiencing nature together builds appreciation and connection. I will spend 30 minutes enjoying an outdoor activity with a young person, such as hiking, visiting a park or nature center, or exploring a trail.

Many common products contain harmful chemicals. I will spend 30 minutes researching chemicals found in products I use, and I will make a list of products I'd like to replace with safer options.

Swapping and sharing resources reduces waste and builds community bonds. I will participate in 5 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.

Working together to clean up public spaces helps the environment and builds community. I will participate in 3 community cleanup efforts in my neighborhood or local area.

Good sleep is essential for a healthy body and mind. I will prioritize getting 30 minutes of quality sleep each night and develop a bedtime routine that supports rest and relaxation.

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

Discovering what’s nearby fosters a deeper connection to my community. I will explore 3 new places in my area, such as parks, historical sites, or local businesses.

Local events such as farmers' markets, festivals, or community meetings like town halls are great ways to feel part of a community. I will attend 2 community events to connect with others and learn more about my area.

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.

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.

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.

Meditation helps build resilience and clarity. I will spend 30 minutes each day to meditate or create a moment of silence each day to reflect on things important to me.

Extreme weather events like hurricanes, wildfires, and floods can disrupt lives and upend our communities. I will take proactive steps to prepare for extreme weather by safeguarding my home and creating or updating an emergency plan and kit with essential supplies, evacuation routes, and contact information.

Sharing our talents can benefit those around us. I will offer my skills or services to support my community, such as helping someone with a task, tutoring, repairing something, or volunteering my expertise.

Growing plants can be rewarding and can create habitats big and small for wildlife. And, we can grow things almost anywhere! I will spend 30 minutes researching options for growing plants either inside or outside.

Environmental issues often impact marginalized communities the most. I will spend 20 minutes researching environmental justice concerns in my region, who is affected by them, and local initiatives to address these concerns.

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.

Adding fruits and vegetables to our meals nourishes our body and the planet. I will prepare and enjoy 1 servings of a variety of colorful fruits and veggies.

Being prepared can save lives during extreme weather. I will spend 15 minutes learning about the most common weather risks in my area and the steps I can take to stay safe, such as signing up for local alerts or identifying nearby shelters.