Sophia Pupshis 101

Racial inequity is both a sustainability and justice problem. I will support businesses owned by people of color in my community whenever I shop.

I will power down my computer and monitor when not using it for more than 2 hours, saving up to (1.1) lbs of CO2 per day.

I will volunteer 3 hours in my community or campus through clubs, service-learning, campus organizations, or other local events or opportunities.

I will replace 2 incandescent light bulbs with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

I will naturally heat and cool my house, office, or dorm room by opening or closing my windows, curtains, and blinds, and by using fans.

I will practice actively listening to a friend, family member, classmate, acquaintance, or someone who I may disagree with in at least 2 conversations.

Good sleep is essential for a healthy body and mind. I will prioritize getting 8 hours of quality sleep each night and develop a bedtime routine that supports rest and relaxation.

I will keep lights, electronics, and appliances turned off when not using them.

Small acts of kindness and gratitude can brighten someone's day and create a positive ripple effect. I will express gratitude to people or perform random acts of kindness to spread joy and connection.

Producing 1 kg of beef emits as much greenhouse gas as driving 150 miles, meanwhile, 1 kg of veggies or grains leaves a much lighter footprint! This week, I’ll shrink my climate impact by having 1 meatless meals and/or 1 vegan meals each day.

I will spend 5 minutes learning more about renewable energy alternatives (i.e. solar, wind, biomass) in my region.

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.

I will spend 5 minutes doing an activity where I'm both moving my body and enjoying myself.

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 assess the vehicles used by my school and advocate for a purchasing policy focused on fuel-efficient vehicles.

I will spend 5 minutes finding out where landfills and/or toxic waste sites are situated in my region and which communities are most impacted by these sites.

I will spend 20 minutes learning about sustainable fashion and begin trying to practice it in my own life.

I will research the social or environmental issues in my community that matter to me and tell 3 friends and classmates each day about what I learn. I will also share what I learn on the Ecochallenge feed.