Kayla McKay

Processed foods can be less nutritious for our bodies and take more energy and water to produce, which can create more waste, pollution, and may offer fewer health benefits. I will enjoy 2 meals per day free of processed foods.

I will look for simple ways to reduce water waste, like reporting slow-to-heat faucets or learning how insulation helps in homes and dorms.

I will spend 15 minutes listening to a podcast about food.

I will spend 30 minutes each day trying out climate anxiety resources that support mental and psychological well being.

We may find more meaning and joy in life when our actions are aligned with our personal values. I will determine what my top 3-5 core values are so that I can better align my actions with them.

I will explore at least one new hiking trail or nature walk in my area.

Access to public transportation is a social justice issue! I will learn about transportation needs in my campus or community and talk to 5 friends or classmates per day about what I learn.

I will sign up for a car-sharing service or coordinate ride shares with roommates, classmates, or campus peers to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.

I will repair at least one item that is broken, but is repairable. This might be items like garden tools, sewing machine, small appliances, electronics, clothing, and more.

I will plant native species, landscape with water-efficient plants, and use eco-friendly fertilizers.

Access to affordable, nutritious food is a food justice issue. I will advocate for local or organic food options at work, on campus, or in the spaces I frequent.

I will eat all of my meals without distractions, e.g., phone, computer, TV, or newspaper.

I will take a 15-minute walk outside each day around my campus, neighborhood, or local green space to connect with nature.

I will create healthier school-life balance habits by setting boundaries around classwork, study time, and rest to support my well-being.

Plastic bags and small plastic pieces like straws are most likely to get swept into our waterways. I will keep 6 plastic straws out of the landfill and ocean each day by refusing straws or using my own glass/metal straw.

If at all possible, I will not accept any disposable bags when making purchases.

I will spend 25 minutes reading the Ecochallenge feed each day and giving high fives or commenting on posts by people who I don't know, but whose content inspires or interests me.

I will spend at least 25 minutes finding out what local laws, policies, and practices keep people from voting in my community.

Individual actions are important, but people and organizations working together can make a real impact. I will share a carbon or energy calculator with a friend and invite them to calculate the carbon footprint of their living space.

I will calculate my digital carbon footprint and take steps to reduce my CO2 emissions.

Tell us what you thought! Take a short survey about your experience to help us improve future events. It only takes a few minutes — and when you complete the survey, you'll earn points!